New Delhi: In a surprising move, West Indies star cricketer Nicholas Pooran has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 29. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, known for his explosive batting and sharp glovework, made the announcement via Instagram, bringing an end to a notable career spanning nearly a decade.
“After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided to announce my retirement from international cricket,” Pooran wrote, expressing gratitude for a career that gave him “joy, purpose, and unforgettable memories.” He debuted in 2016 and went on to represent West Indies in 61 ODIs and 106 T20 Internationals, becoming the most capped T20I player for his country.
Pooran also led the West Indies in 30 matches across formats, securing eight victories during his captaincy stint. Despite a promising leadership role, he stepped down following the team’s disappointing group-stage exit at the 2021 T20 World Cup. Reflecting on his journey, he called captaining the team a “privilege” he would cherish forever. “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,” he said.
He extended heartfelt thanks to fans, teammates, and family for their unwavering support through highs and lows. Pooran, who had recently taken a break from international duty and was not part of the current West Indies tours to Ireland and England, emphasized that although he is retiring from international play, his “love for West Indies cricket will never fade.”
Pooran retires with impressive stats. In ODIs, he scored 1,983 runs at an average of 36.72, including three centuries and 11 fifties, along with 25 dismissals behind the stumps. In T20Is, he amassed 2,275 runs from 97 innings at a strike rate of 136.39, with 23 fifties and a career-best of 98.
Cricket West Indies acknowledged the impact Pooran made, stating: “Nicholas officially informed the leadership of his decision to retire from international cricket, bringing to a close a significant chapter in his career. A world-class player and a game-changer, Nicholas leaves as West Indies’ highest run-scorer and most-capped player in T20 Internationals. His contribution on and off the field has left a lasting legacy.”
While the international chapter may be over, Pooran is expected to continue featuring in franchise leagues across the globe, where his talent and popularity remain undiminished.
