Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has retired from international cricket.

The all-rounder played in 392 matches for his country in all formats, including 55 Tests, with his final appearance coming in the semi-final defeat to Australia at the Cricket World Cup.

Hafeez, who was captain for 32 international matches, scored 12,780 runs and took 253 wickets in an 18-year Pakistan career that began against Zimbabwe in Sharjah on April 3, 2003.

Ranked the number-one Twenty20 all-rounder by the ICC in 2014, Hafeez was described by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja as "a wholehearted cricketer who worked tirelessly at his game to have a long and fruitful career".

Hafeez said: "Today I say goodbye to international cricket with pride and satisfaction. In fact, I have earned and accomplished more than I had initially envisaged and for that, I am thankful to all my fellow cricketers, captains, support staff and the Pakistan Cricket Board who helped me out during my career.

"And, of course, my family who made big sacrifices to ensure I achieved my aspirations of representing Pakistan at a global stage.

"I am extremely fortunate, lucky and proud to have been considered worthy of donning the national kit with Pakistan emblem for 18 years. My country and my team have always been at my forefront and therefore, every time I stepped on to the field, I tried to raise their profile and image by playing hard and tough but within the rich traditions of spirit of cricket.

"When you have a professional career as long as mine, you're bound to have your share of highs and lows, and I was no different. Results apart, I can say with conviction that I had more highs as I had the privilege of playing with and against some of the finest exponents of the bat and the ball of my era.

"While cricket has been a great learning school for me, this great sport has provided me opportunities to visit various countries, explore their cultures and make friends. These are lifelong memories, which I will cherish every day. I want to thank my fans and supporters for believing in my abilities and backing me throughout my career."