Piyush Chawla announces retirement from all forms of cricket

Veteran India spinner Piyush Chawla, a two-time World Cup winner and one of the most consistent performers in the Indian Premier League (IPL), announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Friday, June 06. The 36-year-old leg-spinner announced an emotional statement shared on his social media handle, officially bringing the curtains down on his professional career that spanned over two decades.

Chawla's career saw him featured in only a few games for India, including three Tests, 25 ODIs, and seven T20Is, taking seven, 32, and four wickets respectively. Notably, the biggest highlight of his career was being part of the squads that won the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 in South Africa and the ICC ODI World Cup in 2011 at home. His last international game came in 2012 against England in Mumbai. In his official statement, he thanked his coaches, teammates, cricket boards, and most importantly, his family.

"After more than two decades on the field, the time has come to bid adieu to the beautiful game. From representing India at the highest level to being part of the victorious 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup squads, every moment in this incredible journey has been nothing short of a blessing. These memories will forever remain etched in my heart. A heartfelt thank you to the IPL franchises who placed their trust in me - Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians," Chawla wrote on his official Instagram handle.

"The Indian Premier League has been a truly special chapter in my career, and I have cherished every moment playing in it. A special mention to my late father, whose belief in me lit the path I walked. Without him, this journey would never have been possible. Today is a deeply emotional day for me as I officially announce my retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket," he further continued.

"Though I step away from the crease, cricket will always live within me. I now look forward to embarking on a new journey, carrying with me the spirit and lessons of this beautiful game. Closing this chapter with Gratitude !! Retiring from all formats of the game, thank you, everyone, for your support throughout this beautiful journey," Chawla concluded.

Check out Piyush Chawla's latest post here:

Chawla's IPL experience

Speaking of the IPL, the leggie has bagged 179 wickets in 181 matches, and is the joint-third in the tournament's top wicket-takers. Piyush Chawla has represented Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians. Notably, he hit the winning runs in the 2014 IPL final while playing for KKR against his former team, Punjab.