Domestic veteran Dishant Yagnik retires from all forms of the game

One of the most experienced cricketers in the Rajasthan cricket circuit, Dishant Yagnik, recently called it a day to his illustrious domestic career. He got very emotional after he turned up for his team one last time in the last league game of the Ranji Trophy recently. He had contemplated a mid-season retirement, but opted to stay for the full season after Pankaj Singh and team management requested him to do so.

He could hardly control his tears when his teammates gave him a farewell after the game. As per the quotes in Sportstarlive, Dishant Yagnik quoted that it was a hard decision. He conceded that he could neither expect an India call up, nor an IPL contract at the age of 34.

“To be honest, it was a tough call (to walk into retirement), but I had to stop somewhere. It was so difficult to motivate myself. At this age, you can’t dream of playing for India, neither can you bag an IPL contract,” Dishant Yagnik quoted.

However, it is worth noting that Dishant had his moments of glory in the IPL. He was a regular member of the Rajasthan Royals for a couple of seasons under seasoned veteran Rahul Dravid. He quoted the times at the Royals as special ones.

“It has been an honour playing for Rajasthan Royals, under Rahul (Dravid) bhai. Those memories are special. So many memories keep flowing in,” he said.

Interestingly, on his retirement, he received a text from Rahul Dravid. Dravid wished him on a successful cricket career. He also wished him all the luck for the future endeavors. “Dear Dishant, congrats on your fine career. Was a pleasure to play with you and to know you and your lovely family. Best wishes to you in your future endeavours,” Dravid texted Dishant Yagnik.

Recalling the big moment

Perhaps the biggest moment of his career was in the Duleep Trophy match almost 13 years ago. Playing for the Central Zone, he guided his team to a last ball win when he hit a six off the final delivery. Interestingly, the bowler was East Zone’s Sourav Ganguly.

“We required five runs in the last ball, and Dada was bowling. Anyone would have crumbled under pressure, but I don’t know how I hit him for a six,” recalled Dishant.

On the times ahead

Speaking about his future plans, Dishant Yagnik conceded that he wishes to take up the coaching role. The 34-year old received an impromptu farewell party from his Rajasthan teammates. Yagnik hopes to help the Rajasthan U19 team now.

“I want to start as a wicket-keeping and fielding coach. My immediate target is to help Rajasthan U-19 team. I have requested the officials, let’s see what happens,” he conceded.