Vidarbha’s Ranji Trophy winning skipper Faiz Fazal draws curtains on 21-year cricket career

In a heartfelt social media post, Faiz Fazal, the seasoned cricketer who captained Vidarbha to their historic Ranji Trophy victory in 2018, announced his retirement, marking the end of an illustrious 21-year journey in first-class cricket.

As Fazal gears up to step onto the Nagpur ground for the last time, he reminisces about his incredible ride that began two decades ago. The opening batter expressed gratitude for the honour of representing both the Indian Cricket Team and Vidarbha.

"Tomorrow marks the end of an era as I step onto the Nagpur ground for the last time, where my journey in first-class cricket began 21 incredible years ago. It’s been an unforgettable ride, filled with cherished memories that I’ll hold dear forever," Fazal said in his Instagram post.

Acknowledging his teammates, coaches, physios, trainers, and even the groundstaff, Fazal expressed his gratitude to the pillars of strength who supported him throughout his remarkable journey. He bid farewell to his beloved Number 24 jersey, acknowledging its significance in his cricketing journey.

"A heartfelt thank you to all my teammates, coaches, physios, and trainers, “and special mention to groundsmen”, family, friends, and supporters who’ve been my pillars of strength throughout this remarkable journey."

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"Representing both the Indian Cricket Team and Vidarbha has been the greatest honor of my life, and donning those cricket jerseys has always filled me with immense pride. Farewell to my beloved Number 24 jersey – you’ll be deeply missed," he added.

As one chapter closes, another awaits: Fazal

While Fazal admits that bidding adieu to his professional cricket career stirs mixed emotions, he eagerly anticipates embracing new adventures that lie ahead. His final match against Haryana in the Ranji Trophy concluded with a touching guard of honour from all players, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to the sport over two decades.

"As one chapter closes, another awaits, and while bidding adieu to my professional cricket career fills me with mixed emotions, I’m eagerly looking forward to embracing the new adventures that lie ahead," he concluded.

Fazal, who made a remarkable impact on his First-Class debut in 2003, scoring 151 runs, leaves behind a legacy with 9,183 runs in First Class, 3,641 runs in List A, and 1,273 runs in T20s. His pivotal role in the 2017-18 Ranji Trophy, leading Vidarbha to victory and finishing as the highest run-scorer, remains a highlight in his career.

As Fazal's chapter in professional cricket closes, the cricketing community celebrates his achievements, cherishes the memories, and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.