Singaporean centre-back Baihakki Khaizan has announced his retirement from the national team.
Baihakki, who plies his trade now in Thailand with Trat FC, called an end to his Singapore career via his social media platforms on Thursday.
The 35-year-old was part of the 2005, 2007 and 2012 ASEAN Football Championship (for sponsorships reasons, also known as Tiger Cup / AFF Suzuki Cup) winning team.
The 134-capped defender made his international debut against Hong Kong on 4 August 2003 and netted 5 times throughout his career, of which an eventual winner in the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup Finals where Singapore went on to beat Thailand 3-2 on aggregate.
“I, Baihakki Khaizan, hereby would like to make a little announcement, that I am retiring from the National Team. 4th August 2003 was the first day I don the national colours and deep inside I couldn’t explain how proud I am getting my first international cap against Hong Kong.”
“Thank you to all bosses & backroom staff, assistant coaches, team managers right from the days of Alvin, Eugene Loo, Visaken, Farehan Hussein & today Eric Ong. Fitness coach Crazy Sasha, I hate you but you know I love you always. Medical team from the days of Karen, Asraf, Hwee Koon, Jasmuri, Fizah, Banzi, Abg Naz, Abg Muk & many more. Kitman Cik Omar, Gordon, Jeff Bogey (white hair) & many more.”
“Thank you to my family for supporting me all this while. My mom who always pray for me everywhere I played. My wife & children, thank you for being so super duper understanding & supportive from Day 1. We can plan our holidays properly from next year onwards.
“Thank you all the fans for your support. Please continue to support the team as you are our only source of inspiration, passion and dedication whenever we enter the pitch. That Kallang Roar will always remain in my heart forever. Majulah!”
“Thank you again everyone, I hope I have given my best during my 12,240 minutes outing. I apologise for all my wrong-doings in any occasion as I’m not the most perfect of humans, I’ll be joining you soon in the stands, doing the Kallang Roar together as one Singapore.”
“To the players, all the best to you and your respective careers. I’ve enjoyed every single moment we had together. I shall leave the pack for now and may success ride along upon you. It make look as a normal 90% Polyester 10% Knit Mesh red jersey, but it’s the small portion of the chest with the biggest meaning is the reason you’re fighting for. Signing off from your biggest fan, Baihakki Khaizan.”
Singapore, currently led by former Lions captain Nazri Nasir will play in AIRMARINE Cup, a four-nation ‘A’ international friendly tournament hosted by Football Association of Malaysia next week (20-23 March 2019).
