In a shocking twist that has left cricket enthusiasts reeling, West Indies wicket-keeping hero and T20 batting wizard Nicholas Pooran has revealed his international retirement across all formats.
The news, broken on Monday evening, follows closely on the heels of South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen's own international retirement, and casts new fears about the long-term sustainability of international cricket in the face of increasing temptation of franchise leagues.
Pooran, one of the most explosive and consistent players in T20 cricket today, confirmed he would still be playing in international franchise tournaments. Yet, his decision to leave representing the West Indies—though still only 29 and in top form—fuelled renewed controversy over where the sport is going, especially for national teams.
In a emotive post on Instagram, Pooran had penned: "After a lot of thought and contemplation, I've made the decision to make my retirement from international Cricket official."
He continued by stating how much he was grateful for being given the privilege of donning the legendary West Indies maroon:
"This game we cherish has given and will give so much – joy, meaning, memories that won't be forgotten, and an opportunity to represent the people of the West Indies.". Wearing that maroon, being out there for the anthem, and leaving it all out on the field every time I took the field. it is difficult to explain just what that means to me. To have had the chance to be captain of the team is a joy that I will always carry with me."
Pooran also made time to express his gratitude towards the fans who supported him during his career.
"To all fans – thank you for your unconditional love. You supported me through the bad times and cheered the good ones with unparalleled enthusiasm."
"To my family, friends, and colleagues – thank you for sharing this ride with me. Your trust and faith took me through it all," he further said.
In wrapping up his message, Pooran reaffirmed his long-standing relationship with West Indies cricket:
"Although this overseas chapter of my life ends, my passion for West Indies Cricket will never cease. I wish the team and the region nothing but success and resilience for what is to come."
Pooran exits as the most capped West Indian player in T20 Internationals, having played 106 games. He is also the Caribbean side's leading run-scorer in the format, with 2,275 runs.
His departure is not only a personal landmark but also a symbolic moment for global cricket, where more and more players—many of them still at the height of their powers—are opting to leave national service behind in order to devote themselves exclusively to franchise cricket.
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