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Sreesanth announces retirement from India domestic cricket
Follow UsThe 39-year-old recently made his first-class comeback for Kerala, featuring in one Ranji Trophy 2021-22 game against Meghalaya
S Sreesanth announced his retirement from all forms of India's domestic cricket. The paceman made the announcement on Twitter on Wednesday (March 9).
The 39-year-old recently made his first-class comeback for Kerala. The right-arm paceman featured in one Ranji Trophy 2021-22 game against Meghalaya and claimed a couple of wickets. He also featured in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2021. He even registered his name for the IPL 2022 auction but found no takers.
"During my 25 years career as a cricket player, I've always pursued success and winning cricket games, while preparing and training with the highest standards of competition, passion and perseverance," tweeted Sreesanth.
"It has been an honor to represent my family, my teammates and the people of India. And everyone who loves the game. With much sadness but without regret, I say this with a heavy heart: I am retiring from the Indian domestic (first class and all formats) cricket.
"For the next generation of cricketers... I have chosen to end my first-class cricket career. This decision is mine alone, and although I know this will not bring me happiness, it is the right and honorable action to take at this time in my life. I've cherished every moment."
Having made his international debut in 2005, Sreesanth played 27 Tests, 53 ODIs and 10 T20Is for India, picking up 87, 75 and 7 wickets respectively. He also featured in 74 first-class (213 wickets) and 92 List-A (124 wickets) encounters.
Sreesanth was also part of the MS Dhoni-led sides that won the 2007 T20 World Cup in South Africa and the 2011 50-over World Cup in India. He made his last international appearance in August 2011. On top of that, he also represented Kings XI Punjab and Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, picking up 40 wickets.
Sreesanth was accused of being involved in spot-fixing in the 2013 edition of the IPL and was arrested along with Ankeet Chavan and Ajit Chandila. His ban came to an end in September 2020, concluding a seven-year punishment that was originally meant to be for life and was aggressively contested by the flamboyant bowler.