Khama Billiat quits international football [full text]

Zimbabwe talisman Khama Billiat has announced his retirement from international football.

In a statement on social media, Billiat said:

Fellow Zimbabweans
It was all a dream. When I was young, I always dreamt of representing the country, playing for the national team.
The dream which seemed far-fetched for a young Khama in Mufakose came when I least expected it. The first day I donned the Warriors badge, I vowed to enjoy myself and always lift the country’s spirits.
Scoring a goal at the Africa Cup of Nations finals is one moment I still relive in my mind even up to date. It is one of the many special moments I have experienced wearing the coveted yellow jersey.
The feeling of scoring in a packed stadium for your nation is inexplicable. I have met so many teammates, coaches at the national team and I appreciate every relationship I have built along the way.
By playing for the Warriors, I have improved immensely as a player it is an opportunity I will forever cherish. However, every story no matter how beautiful has an ending. This is probably the heaviest decision I have ever had to take in my life, but it is a decision I make with a patriotic heart. Like those who had to pave way for our generation of Warriors stars to emerge, I have decided to retire from international football.
I believe it is now time for me to pave way for new talent to blossom and serve the country in the same way that I did, or even better.
I will forever be indebted to those who took a chance on me and moulded me into the international player I grew to become. Thank you Zimbabwe for supporting me and my teammates, for showing love with each outing.
God bless you.
Khama Billiat