In a stunning development, talented West Indies cricketer Nicholas Pooran has announced his international retirement at the age of 29. The wicketkeeper-batter played 61 ODIs and 106 T20Is between 2016 and 2024.
“After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided to announce my retirement from international cricket," Pooran wrote in a statement on Instagram. “This game we love has given and will continue to give so much – joy, purpose, unforgettable memories, and a chance to represent the people of the West Indies."
Pooran has previously led West Indies and said the ‘privilege’ to captain the team will stay close to his heart. Of the 30 matches Pooran led West Indies across formats, he managed eight victories. He stepped away from captaincy after the team’s shocking first-round exit at the 2021 T20 World Cup.
“Wearing that maroon, standing for the anthem, and giving everything I had each time I stepped on the field… it’s hard to put into words what that truly means to me. To have led the team as captain is a privilege I will always hold close to my heart," he said.
“To the fans – thank you for your unwavering love. You lifted me in the tough moments and celebrated the good ones with unmatched passion. To my family, friends, and teammates – thank you for walking this journey with me. Your belief and support carried me through it all," he added.
A post shared by Nicholas Pooran (@nicholaspooran)
Pooran had recently requested for a break from international duties and wasn’t picked in West Indies’ ongoing tour of Ireland and England.
“Though this international chapter of my career closes, my love for West Indies cricket will never fade. I wish the team and the region nothing but success and strength for the road ahead," he said.
Pooran scored 1983 runs from 61 ODIs including three centuries and 11 fifties. He had 25 dismissals to his name including 23 catches and two stumpings. In T20Is, he made 2275 runs from 97 innings at a strike-rate of 136.39. He struck 23 fifties including a best of 98.
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“Nicholas officially informed the leadership of his decision to retire from international cricket, bringing to a close a significant chapter in his career," Cricket West Indies said in a statement responding to the decision.
“A world-class player and a game changer, Nicholas leaves the game as the most capped West Indian in T20 Internationals with 106 matches and the leading T20I run scorer with 2,275 runs. His performances on the field and influence within the team have made a lasting impact on West Indies cricket," it added.
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