3 Players whose international careers were short but memorable

International cricket has witnessed several players who leave a lasting impact on the game throughout their long careers. However, there have also been a few players who haven’t enjoyed decade-spanning careers like many others but still managed to capture the attention of fans.

These players enjoyed a brief peak but continue to remain in the public memory through their remarkable exploits on the pitch. Here are the top three players in international cricket who had short but memorable careers:

1. Ryan Harris

Ryan Harris' international career was constantly interrupted by injuries, but the Australian fast bowler made a massive impact whenever he was fit. After making his Test debut at the age of 30, Harris went on to play 27 Tests and took 113 wickets at an average of 23.52. He also claimed 44 scalps in 21 ODIs and four wickets in three T20Is.

His immaculate delivery to dismiss Alastair Cook on the first ball of the third Ashes Test in 2013 in Perth is still fresh in fans’ memories. Harris bowled several match-winning spells for Australia before a knee problem eventually forced him to retire in 2015.

2. Mohammad Asif

Mohammad Asif is touted as one of Pakistan's most naturally gifted fast bowlers. His ability to swing and seam the ball with impeccable control made him a nightmare for batters, especially in Test cricket.

Asif played 23 Tests and took 106 wickets at 24.36, while also claiming 46 wickets in 38 ODIs. His memorable performances include a seven-wicket haul in Pakistan's victory over India in Karachi in 2006.

However, his involvement in the 2010 spot-fixing scandal brought his international career to an abrupt end as Pakistan lost a gem of a fast bowler.

3. Neil Johnson

The former Zimbabwe player had a relatively brief international career but left everyone stunned with his stellar show in the 1999 World Cup. Johnson contributed with both bat and ball and was one of the tournament's standout performers, scoring 367 runs and scalping 12 wickets (both highest for Zimbabwe)

He played 13 Tests and 48 ODIs, scoring 532 and 1,679 runs respectively, while taking 15 Test and 35 ODI wickets.

Despite his short international career, Johnson remains one of the most well-known cricketers from Zimbabwe's golden period.