'Captaining West Indies is a privilege I will always hold close to my heart,' - Nicholas Pooran announces retirement from international cricket

Nicholas Pooran shocked the cricket fraternity by announcing his retirement from international cricket at the age of 29. The destructive wicketkeeper-batter revealed his decision through a social media post in the wee hours of Tuesday, June 10.

Pooran called time on his international career after having played 61 T20Is and 106 ODIs. He scored 1983 and 2275 runs in the two formats, respectively. The Trinidad-born is the leading run-getter for the West Indies in the shortest format.

Pooran, who was recently seen in action during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, playing for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), said that it was a difficult decision for him to take and captaining the West Indies was a privilege for him.

“To the cricket public: 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 wrote in his statement on Instagram.

Pooran expressed his appreciation for the fans, his former teammates, and family members for being with him through the ups and downs.

"To the fans – thank you for your unwavering love. You lifted me in the tough moments and celebrated the good ones with unmatched passion. To my family, friends, and teammates, thank you for walking this journey with me. Your belief and support carried me through it all. 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," he concluded.

Check the post below: 

Pooran's announcement comes days after he had requested Cricket West Indies (CWI) not to consider him for the white-ball series against England in the United Kingdom, as he wanted some rest.