Former PBKS, KKR And RR Pacer Ankit Rajpoot Announces Retirement At 31 – News18

Last Updated:December 16, 2024, 20:26 IST

He wrote a lengthy post on his official handle, speaking about his decision to call time on his cricketing career in India.

Uttar Pradesh fast-bowler, Ankit Rajpoot announced his retirement at 31 years old from Indian cricket as the pacer announced his decision on Instagram on Monday.

He wrote a lengthy post on his official handle, speaking about his decision to call time on his cricketing career in India.

“Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from Indian cricket. My journey from 2009-2024 has been the most wonderful period of my life,” he wrote on social media.

He also thanked the BCCI, UPCA and the KCA for giving him the opportunities across the domestic format.

“I am grateful for the opportunities given to me by the Board of Control for India, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, Kanpur Cricket Association…,” he added.

The 31-year-old pacer has represented five franchises in the Indian Premier League. He began his IPL career with the Chennai Super Kings where he was picked in the 2013 auction. He has also played for franchises like Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals and the Kolkata Knight Riders. His latest stint was with the Lucknow Super Giants but did not get a game.

Rajpoot’s best performance in the IPL was against Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2018. But his haul went in vain as SRH went on to win by 13 runs in Hyderabad.

“I am excited to announce that I will be exploring new opportunities in the world of cricket & the business side of it, where I will also continue to participate in the sport that I love and challenge myself in a new and different environment,” Rajpoot posted.

“I believe that this is the next step in my journey as a cricketer and I look forward to this new chapter in my life. I wish the best of luck to all the teammates from the various teams I’ve been a part of,” he added.

Rajpoot has played a total of 80 First-Class games, 50 List-A and 87 T20s in total where he took 248, 71 and 105 wickets respectively. With his retirement, he will now look to explore opportunities elsewhere like the overseas cricket leagues where he would like to make more of an impact.