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In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity, West Indies’ dynamic wicketkeeper-batter Nicholas Pooran has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of just 29. The Trinidadian, widely regarded as one of the most destructive white-ball hitters of his generation, made the announcement on Monday night (June 9), leaving fans and pundits stunned by the abrupt end to a promising international career.
Nicholas Pooran’s sudden retirement from international cricket
Pooran’s decision comes mere days after he opted out of selection for the T20I series against England, fueling speculation about his future. However, few anticipated such a decisive step so soon. In his statement, Pooran said, “After much thought and reflection, I’ve decided to announce my retirement from international cricket. 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. 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.”
Pooran’s international career: Stats and achievements
Pooran’s international journey began in 2016 with a T20I debut against Pakistan. Over the next nine years, he established himself as a mainstay in the West Indies’ white-ball squads, eventually captaining both the ODI and T20I sides.
T20 International (T20I) Record
- Matches: 106
- Runs: 2,275
- Average: 26.14
- Strike Rate: 136.39
- Highest Score: 98
- 50s: 13
- Sixes: 149
Pooran retires as West Indies’ most capped T20I player and their highest run-scorer in the format. He is the only West Indian to surpass 2,000 T20I runs and ranks fourth among full-member nation batters for most T20I sixes, trailing only Rohit Sharma, Martin Guptill and Jos Buttler.
One-Day International (ODI) Record
- Matches: 61
- Runs: 1,983
- Average: 39.66
- Strike Rate: 99.15
- Highest Score: 118
- Centuries: 3
- Fifties: 11
In ODIs, Pooran’s consistency was evident with an average nearing 40 and a strike rate just shy of a run a ball. His memorable 118 against Sri Lanka in the 2019 World Cup remains a highlight of his 50-over career.
Also READ: England seal T20I series against West Indies with a thrilling chase in Bristol
Pooran’s impact for West Indies
Despite his white-ball exploits, Pooran never played a Test match for West Indies, focusing his career on the shorter formats.
Pooran’s aggressive batting style, flair for big hits, and ability to change games single-handedly made him a fan favourite. His leadership stint, especially after Kieron Pollard’s retirement, saw him guide a young West Indies side through a transitional period. Off the field, Pooran’s resilience—overcoming a serious car accident early in his career—earned him admiration across the cricketing world.
His international retirement does not mark the end of his cricketing journey. Pooran will continue featuring in franchise leagues worldwide, where his explosive batting will remain in high demand.
Also READ: Explained – Why South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen retired from international cricket at just 33?
