Nicholas Pooran, one of West Indies’ most explosive batters, has shocked the cricketing world by announcing his retirement from international cricket at just 29. The prolific left-hander, who holds the record for the most T20I appearances and runs for the West Indies, bows out at the height of his T20 prowess.
Pooran’s retirement is a big setback for a rebuilding West Indies side, especially after missing the 2023 ODI World Cup. He was in top T20 form last year, leading in sixes globally and smashing 500+ runs with 40 sixes in the recent IPL. Despite that, he skipped the current England-Ireland tour after requesting a break.
Pooran, who never featured in Tests, made his T20I debut in September 2016 and broke into the ODI squad in early 2019. However, he has not played an ODI since West Indies’ failure to reach the last World Cup. He briefly led the side in white-ball formats in 2022, though his stint yielded just eight wins in 30 matches.
Pooran Steps Away, West Indies Face Big Gap Ahead Of T20 World Cup
Following a disappointing first-round exit at the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, Nicholas Pooran stepped down as captain. With the next T20 World Cup just eight months away, his departure leaves a significant void in West Indies’ middle order.
“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 wrote in his statement on Instagram.
“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.”
“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.”
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According to a statement from Cricket West Indies:
“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 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.”
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