The dashing West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran has announced his retirement from international cricket, a move that has come as a surprise to the cricketing fraternity. Pooran, just 29 years old, holds the record as the highest run-scorer for the West Indies in T20 internationals.
Pooran made his T20I debut for the West Indies on 23rd September 2016 against Pakistan. Since then, he has played 106 T20 matches — the most by any West Indies player. He amassed 2,275 runs at an average of 26.14 and a strike rate of 136.39, including 13 fifties. His highest score in T20Is is 98.
He made his ODI debut against England on 20th February 2019. Over 61 matches, Pooran scored 1,983 runs at an impressive average of 39.66. His ODI tally includes 11 fifties and 3 centuries, with a highest score of 118.
Pooran also served as captain of the West Indies in 30 matches across both T20 and ODI formats, though his leadership record saw just 8 wins. Notably, he never played a single Test match during his international career.
“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.”
Cricket West Indies (CWI) said in a statement: “Nicholas officially informed the leadership of his decision to retire from international cricket, bringing to a close a significant chapter in his career.”
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