Today, Ravichandran Ashwin officially announced his retirement from international cricket following the Brisbane Test, which ended in a thrilling draw. The announcement, made alongside Rohit Sharma during a press conference, marked the end of an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket. The moment was emotional, not only for Ashwin but for cricket fans around the world. Before the press conference, Ashwin was seen talking with Virat Kohli, and a warm hug between them spoke volumes about the bond they shared. Ashwin began his statement, “I pardon for not taking your questions. I am here to announce my retirement from international cricket.” After his announcement, tributes poured in from all over the cricketing world. Fans, former teammates, opposition players, and cricket experts all took a moment to appreciate Ashwin’s incredible impact on the game. 

Ashwin’s Legacy: Top Career Achievements

Ravichandran Ashwin’s career is marked by more than just impressive statistics. Here are the top achievements that define his career:

• 2nd Highest Wicket-Taker in Test Cricket for India: With 537 wickets, Ashwin became India’s second highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, with only Anil Kumble ahead of him on the list.
• ICC Player of the Year (2016): Recognized for his all-round brilliance across formats.
• Fastest Indian to 300 Test Wickets: Highlighting his consistency and skill

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from international cricket

Ashwin’s Top Memorable Moments

Ashwin’s career was filled with memorable performances. Here are some iconic moments that stand out:

• 2013 Champions Trophy Final: Ashwin bowled the final over under immense pressure, helping India clinch victory in a thrilling finish.
• 2022 T20 World Cup vs. Pakistan: His sharp cricketing mind shone through as he left the ball close to the leg stump in a tense moment, playing a key role in the team’s success.

Ashwin’s Impact Beyond Achievements

Ashwin’s legacy goes beyond records and accolades — he was integral to many of India’s most significant wins. His influence on the game and the lasting inspiration he provided to millions of fans will continue to echo throughout the cricketing world.

Despite the Brisbane Test draw, India had a sad day, as the 38-year-old Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket. 

After the end of the Brisbane Test, Ashwin announced his international cricket retirement. In the press conference, the legendary off-spinner said, "This will be my last year as an Indian cricketer in all formats at the international level. I feel there's a little bit of punch left in me as a cricketer, but I'd like to express that, showcase that in club-level cricket."

Skipper Rohit Sharma, who was sitting beside Ashwin, said, "Ashwin wanted to announce his retirement at Perth Test, but we convinced him to stay at pink ball Test." 

🫂💙🇮🇳

Emotional moments from the Indian dressing room 🥹#AUSvINDOnStar #BorderGavaskarTrophy #Ashwin #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/92a4NqNsyP

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 18, 2024

See Also: Border-Gavaskar Trophy: The endgame for Indian cricket stars

Ashwin in the ongoing BGT 2024-25

In the ongoing five-match Test series in Australia, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, Ashwin played the second Test of the series. It was the day-night pink ball Test match, where Ashwin scored 22 and seven runs and picked up one wicket. However, India lost that Test match by ten wickets, and the hosts made the series 1-1 level. 

While Jasprit Bumrah-led team India went with Washington Sundar in the Test series opener at Perth, which India won by 295 runs, Ravindra Jadeja was selected in the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team for the Brisbane Test, where the all-rounder had an important role for the draw result. 

Ashwin's incredible career stats; first Indian bowler with 50 T20I wickets

Ashwin ended his international career with 537 Test wickets, 156 ODI wickets, and 72 T20I wickets. He was the first Indian bowler to record 50 T20I wickets. The off-spinner finished his Test career as the second most wicket-taker by an Indian bowler, as the off-spinner is behind the legendary Indian leg-spinner Anil Kumble, who had 619 Test wickets. 

With 765 international wickets, the off-spinner Ashwin ended as the second-leading wicket-taker for India in international cricket. Once again, Kumble is on top of this list with 953 international wickets.

In international cricket, Ashwin ended as the seventh most Test wicket-taker and 11th most international wicket-taker. 

Ashwin was also a dependable batter

The right-handed batter also scored 3503 Test runs, 707 ODI runs, and 184 T20I runs. He hit six centuries and 14 half-centuries in his Test career and one half-century in his ODI career. With four Test centuries at no.8 or lower, Ashwin holds the record for second most Test centuries at no.8 or lower, as the former New Zealand cricketer Daniel Vettori has the record with five Test centuries. Also, with 2403 Test runs at no.8 or lower batting position, Ashwin finished in the fifth position in the list of most run-scorers in the lower-order batting position (8-11). 

3500 runs and 500 wickets in Test career

Ashwin is the only second batter in Test cricket history to score 3500 runs and also picked up 500 wickets. The other name is the former English pacer Stuart Broad, who scored 3662 Test runs and took 604 Test wickets. 

Two ICC trophies

Ashwin was a playing member of India's ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 trophy-winning campaign. He was also a key member of India's ICC Champions Trophy 2013 trophy-winning journey, where he successfully delivered the final over of the rain-curtailed final against the hosts England. He successfully defended 15 runs in the final over as India won that match by five runs. He ended that tournament final with the bowling figures of 4-1-15-2.

The time has finally come as the 36-year-old legendary New Zealand pacer Tim Southee is playing his last Test as the Hamilton Test between New Zealand and England just started on Saturday (December 14).

Before his last Test, Southee picked up 389 wickets in 106 Tests. Southee was present on his last Test with his daughter. Meanwhile, on his last Test match, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) published a video where his national teammates were talking about the importance and influence of the 6ft 4in tall right-arm medium fast bowler. 

Kane Williamson

The former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson isn’t only his teammate in senior international cricket, but they had great experiences together in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008 in Malaysia, where Williamson led the New Zealand youths and Southee was the second leading wicket-taker in that tournament (17 wickets). While they lost the semi-final, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team won that tournament.

Southee and Williamson have played together in 260 international matches, including 88 Tests. 

Williamson said, “He was my right-hand man really, and someone I could always rely on. Just such a solid sort of loyal teammate that would always walk towards the challenge

“He’s been just an absolute stalwart, you know, in our team. Such a resilient player, really, that’s paved the path for people to come. You can sit here talking about wickets and sixes, maybe, and highlights on the field. But, you know, for me, he’s an amazing sort of representation of what’s important to play for New Zealand, to be a Black Cap and that’ll be something that I’ll always treasure.” 

See Also: After Imad Wasim, Mohammad Amir announces his second retirement from international cricket

Matt Henry

Southee has played 53 international matches with the fast bowler Matt Henry, including 23 Tests. 

Henry said, “To be able to play for New Zealand for over 100 Tests, it shows resilience and what playing for New Zealand means.”

“I think he’ll be massively missed. He’s obviously a huge part of our group and a huge backbone of this fast bowling group for 17 years. I think it is. We’ve been through some amazing games together and there’s so many fond memories to reflect on.”

Grant Elliott

Grant Elliott and Southee played 46 international matches, including two Tests. 

Grant Elliott said, “I mean, he was an exceptional cricketer. There’s no doubt about it. First New Zealander and only New Zealander takes 700 wickets in all three formats. He led by action, and I think that’s the only way he can lead.

“Champion person, champion player, just very lucky to have played with not only a great player, but an amazing person.” 

Shane Bond

Former New Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond was senior to Southee. Although they never played together in Test cricket, they played 14 white-ball international matches. Also, Bond was later the bowling coach of the national team. 

Bond said, “You know, he turns up every day, always prepared, never complaints, just gets of with stuff. Loved to talk about cricket, wanted to get better.”

“Yeah, look he deserves all the recognition. I think it’s nice in this series that people can take the opportunity to recognise what he’s done for New Zealand cricket."

The feelings of his teammates are well enough to describe Southee's importance in the national team. 

“He’s an amazing representation of what’s important to play for New Zealand.”

As Tim Southee embarks on his 107th and final Test match, hear from his current and former teammates on the legacy that he will leave behind. #NZvENG #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/WtjXoegE3w

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) December 13, 2024

The 34-year-old Indian right-arm pacer Siddarth Kaul has officially announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. He played six limited-overs matches for the national team.

Siddarth Kaul was a star in the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008

Siddarth Kaul, the son of former Jammu and Kashmir cricketer Tej Kaul, started playing cricket at the age of six. Kaul was a key member of the India U19 team during the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup 2008 in Malaysia, where the Virat Kohli-led Indian team won the trophy. In that tournament, Kaul took ten wickets in five innings and finished as India’s joint-leading wicket-taker in that tournament. 

In the rain-curtailed final match of the ICC U19 Cricket World Cup, Kaul finished with the bowling figures of 5-0-26-2. Kaul delivered the final over of the match, where South Africa U19 required 19 runs to win that final and had four wickets in hand. Kaul picked two wickets in that final over and conceded only six runs, as India U19 won that final by 12 runs in the D/L method.

However, before the U19 World Cup, Kaul made his debut in first-class cricket for Punjab. On his first-class debut, Kaul recorded a five-wicket haul in the first innings as he had the bowling figures of 23-6-79-5 against Orissa. 

IPL career 

Kaul played IPL for now-defunct Deccan Chargers, SunRisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bangalore. In 55 IPL matches, Kaul took 58 wickets, while his last IPL match was for RCB in 2022. 

In the IPL 2017, Kaul took 16 wickets in ten games. In the next season, Kaul took 21 wickets in 17 games and finished as the joint-second most wicket-taker in the tournament.  

International career

Due to his consistent performances, Kaul ultimately made his international debut in the 2018 Dublin T20I against Ireland in June. In the next month, he made his ODI debut in the England tour. In his first T20I, Kaul had the bowling figures of 2-0-4-1.  

In his short international career, Kaul picked up four wickets in three T20Is and none in his three ODIs. His last international match was the 2019 Bengaluru T20I against Australia. 

In his career, Kaul took 297 wickets in 88 first-class matches, 199 wickets in 111 List A games, and 182 wickets in 145 T20s. He finished as a legendary bowler for Punjab as he ended as the leading wicket-taker for Punjab in all three formats (263 first-class wickets, 155 List A wickets, and 120 T20 wickets).

When I was a child playing cricket in the fields in Punjab, I had one dream. A dream to represent my country. In 2018, by Gods grace, I received my India Cap Number 75 in the T20i team and Cap Number 221 in the ODI team.

The time has now come to call time on my career in India… pic.twitter.com/XiNQ0NBqou

— Siddharthh Kaul (@iamsidkaul) November 28, 2024

James Anderson, the legendary England fast bowler, bid farewell to international cricket on Friday, July 12, 2024, after his side thrashed West Indies in the first Test match at Lord’s. Playing in his 188th Test match, Anderson retired as the most successful pace bowler in the history of Test cricket with 704 wickets, just four shy of second-placed Shane Warne.

The cricketing world paid tribute to Anderson’s remarkable career, with wishes pouring in from all corners, including a heartfelt message from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Career highlights

James Anderson’s career is adorned with numerous milestones and records that speak volumes about his skill and longevity. He debuted in 2003 and played 188 Tests, amassing 704 wickets. Anderson holds the record for the most wickets by a fast bowler in Test cricket, surpassing legends like Glenn McGrath and Wasim Akram.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

The final test match

In his final Test match, England dominated the West Indies, winning by an innings and 114 runs. Anderson played a crucial role, taking four wickets, including a three-wicket haul in the first innings. Despite the stellar debut performance of Gus Atkinson, who picked up 12 wickets, Anderson’s presence on the field was significant, leading his team one last time.

Tributes and farewell

The cricketing community showered Anderson with tributes on social media. Fellow cricketers, former teammates, and fans expressed their admiration and gratitude for his contributions to the game. The respect and love for Anderson were evident, highlighting his impact on cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Tribute

Among the many tributes, Sachin Tendulkar’s message stood out. Tendulkar, an old foe and one of the greatest batter Anderson has bowled against, wrote a heartfelt note on his ‘X’ account. He praised Anderson’s action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness, acknowledging the inspiration Anderson has been for generations. Tendulkar wished Anderson a wonderful life with his family, away from the rigors of professional cricket.

Anderson’s impact on Cricket

James Anderson has left an indelible mark on cricket. His exceptional skill and dedication have inspired countless young cricketers. Anderson’s contributions to England’s success, including multiple Ashes victories, have made him a beloved figure in English cricket.

James Anderson’s retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. His career, filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments, stands as a testament to his greatness. As he bows out, the cricketing world celebrates his contributions and looks forward to seeing the impact of his legacy on future generations.

In a stunning turn of events, Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team and Player of the Match in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, announced his retirement from T20 internationals right after India’s triumphant victory over South Africa in Barbados on Saturday.

Kohli, who is regarded as one of India’s greatest cricketers, expressed that it was time for the next generation to take the helm. From the by-lanes of Delhi to the pinnacle of world cricket, Kohli’s T20I career has seen numerous highs and lows, culminating in this perfect farewell.

See Also: Watch: Rohit Sharma hugs an emotional Hardik after India win T20 World Cup 2024 against South Africa

The Farewell Announcement

“This was my last T20 World Cup; this is exactly what we wanted to achieve,” Kohli shared with the broadcasters following India’s end to an 11-year ICC title drought. “One day you feel like you can’t get a run, and then this happens. God is great. It was a now-or-never kind of situation. This was my last T20 game playing for India. We wanted to lift that cup.”

When asked by Harsha Bhogle if he was officially announcing his retirement, Kohli confirmed, “Yes, I have. This was an open secret. It’s not something I wouldn’t have announced even if we had lost. It’s time for the next generation to take the T20 game forward.”

Reflecting on the Journey

Reflecting on the long-awaited victory, Kohli remarked, “It’s been a long wait for us, to win an ICC tournament. You look at someone like Rohit (Sharma), he’s played nine T20 World Cups and this is my sixth. He deserves it. It’s been difficult to hold back emotions, and I think it’s going to sink in later. It’s an amazing day, and I’m thankful.”

A remarkable career

Virat Kohli’s career is distinguished by his rare achievement of winning both the ODI and T20 World Cups. Kohli made his T20I debut in 2010 and participated in several T20 World Cups, each time facing disappointment until the 2024 edition. In this tournament, Kohli emerged as the savior, especially after India’s rocky start against South Africa. His gritty knock of 76 off 59 balls helped India set a record high total of 176/7 in a T20 World Cup final.

A touching farewell

In a scene reminiscent of 2011 when he carried his idol on his shoulders after India’s World Cup victory, Kohli was seen embracing everyone around him, sharing the joy and relief of this monumental win. This victory not only ended India’s long wait for an ICC title but also marked a fitting end to Kohli’s illustrious T20I career.

Most POTM awards in T20Is
16 – Virat Kohli (125 mats)*
15 – Suryakumar Yadav (68)
14 – Rohit Sharma (159)
14 – Sikandar Raza (86)
14 – Mohd Nabi (129)
14 – Virandeep Singh (78)

Speculations are rife within the cricketing fraternity regarding Rohit Sharma‘s future in T20 internationals, with reports suggesting that the Indian cricket stalwart might be on the brink of bidding adieu to the shortest format of the game. The looming T20 World Cup has intensified discussions surrounding Rohit’s retirement, especially in light of recent developments surrounding the team’s leadership dynamics.

Reports of Retirement: The End of an Era?

Recent reports from Dainik Jagran have hinted that Rohit Sharma may retire from T20Is following the conclusion of the upcoming T20 World Cup. This revelation has sent shockwaves across the cricketing world, as Rohit’s prowess in the format and his invaluable contributions to the Indian team are widely acknowledged and celebrated.

See Also: Netherlands announce squad for T20 World Cup

The decision regarding Rohit’s T20I future appears to be closely linked to the selection and elevation of Hardik Pandya within the Indian cricket setup. Despite purported concerns over his recent performances, Hardik’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad and his appointment as vice-captain has raised eyebrows and fueled speculation regarding the team’s long-term strategy.

Mumbai Indians’ Leadership Shift: Rohit vs. Hardik

Tensions between Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have been palpable, particularly within the Mumbai Indians franchise. The abrupt transition of leadership from Rohit to Hardik at MI has been met with scepticism and scrutiny, with the move carrying significant implications for both players and the team’s dynamics.

Reports suggest that the decision to anoint Hardik as captain has yet to be universally embraced, with divisions emerging among players and fans alike. While overseas players may be more accepting of Hardik’s leadership, domestic talents reportedly continue to look up to Rohit. This sentiment underscores the complexities of team dynamics and player relationships.

Impact on IPL 2024: Performance and Leadership

The leadership transition at Mumbai Indians has coincided with a turbulent IPL 2024 campaign for the franchise, with Rohit and Jasprit Bumrah allegedly expressing concerns over Hardik’s captaincy. Hardik’s handling of young talent like Tilak Varma has further exacerbated tensions within the team, potentially impacting on-field performances.

Selection Controversy: The Pressure Factor

Reports have hinted at internal discord within the BCCI selection panel regarding Hardik’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad. Despite reservations from individuals like Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar, external pressures purportedly influenced the decision, with the belief that Hardik represents India’s future captaincy aspirations in T20Is.

Following India’s exit from the 2022 T20 World Cup, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli temporarily shifted from T20Is to focus on ODI cricket. However, their subsequent return to the T20I fold hinted at a potential resurgence, only to be overshadowed by the emergence of Hardik Pandya as a pivotal figure in the team’s leadership hierarchy.

Hardik’s Struggles: Question Marks Over Leadership

Hardik Pandya’s struggles in IPL 2024 have added another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate surrounding his leadership credentials. With his form dwindling and impact diminishing, doubts persist regarding his suitability as India’s future T20I captain—a role that carries immense responsibility and scrutiny.

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya have endured mixed fortunes in IPL 2024, with flashes of brilliance overshadowed by periods of inconsistency. As stalwarts of the Mumbai Indians franchise, their performances in the tournament have come under heightened scrutiny, offering glimpses into their respective mindsets and capabilities.

India’s Dilemma: Investing in Hardik as Captain

The Indian cricket team faces a problem regarding the future of its T20I leadership, with Hardik Pandya’s selection as vice-captain prompting soul-searching within the setup. The decision to invest in Hardik as a potential captain reflects the team management’s long-term vision, yet uncertainties persist regarding his readiness for the role.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, Team India must navigate the delicate balance between experience and potential, weighing the contributions of seasoned campaigners like Rohit Sharma against the promise of emerging talents like Hardik Pandya. The path forward is fraught with complexities and uncertainties, requiring careful consideration and strategic planning.

The cricketing world received news of Zimbabwe all-rounder Sean Williams’ retirement from T20 Internationals (T20Is) with surprise and nostalgia. Left-hander made his decision after the just-concluded five-match T20I series in Bangladesh.

Player Background

Sean Williams, a prominent figure in Zimbabwe cricket, has decided to bid farewell to T20Is after the conclusion of a five-match series in Bangladesh. The left-handed all-rounder has been a stalwart for the Zimbabwean team, showcasing his skills across formats. His retirement from T20Is marks the end of an era for Zimbabwe cricket and leaves a void in the team’s lineup.

See Also: KKR into Playoffs; Golden touch of Gautam Gambhir in IPL

Retirement Announcement

A Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) official confirmed Williams’s decision to retire from T20Is. The official revealed that Williams informed his teammates about his retirement following the final match of the series. Despite Zimbabwe’s defeat in most of the matches, Williams managed to secure a consolation victory in his farewell game, providing a fitting end to his T20I career.

Williams’ contributions to Zimbabwe cricket extend beyond his on-field performances. As a seasoned campaigner, he was a mentor and role model for younger players, imparting invaluable knowledge and experience to the team.

“He(Williams) decided to retire from T20I and informed about his decision to his team mates following the game,” a BCB official working with the Zimbabwean confirmed Cricbuzz on Sunday.

Statistical Analysis

Throughout his T20I career, Sean Williams showcased his versatility as an all-rounder, accumulating 1691 runs at a commendable strike rate of 126.38. Additionally, his left-arm spin fetched him 48 wickets, further highlighting his value to the team. Williams’ ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a valuable asset for Zimbabwe in the shortest-game format.

Future Plans

While Williams bids farewell to T20Is, he reassures fans that he will continue to represent Zimbabwe in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Test matches. His experience and leadership will be crucial as Zimbabwe aims to rejuvenate its cricketing fortunes in the upcoming series and tournaments.

James Anderson, the highest wicket-taking pacer in Test cricket, has announced that the first Test against West Indies to be played at Lord’s from July 10 will be his final Test appearance. In an emotional Instagram post, Anderson expressed gratitude for his 20-year journey representing England, stating that it’s time to step aside and make way for the younger generation.

Early Years and Debut

Born on July 30, 1982, in Burnley, Lancashire, James Anderson’s cricketing journey began at a young age. His exceptional talent was evident from his early days, leading to his Test debut against Zimbabwe in May 2003. Since then, Anderson has been an indispensable part of the England cricket team, consistently delivering stellar performances on the field.

See Also: MI star shares experience of playing under Hardik Pandya amid captaincy controversy

Milestone Achievements

Anderson’s career is studded with numerous milestones, the most notable being his achievement of becoming the first fast bowler to reach 700 Test wickets. His relentless pursuit of excellence has placed him on the brink of surpassing the legendary Shane Warne’s record, a testament to his unparalleled skill and dedication.

Memorable Performances

Throughout his career, Anderson has delivered several unforgettable performances, showcasing his ability to swing the ball with precision and effortlessly dismantle batting line-ups. His impressive record includes 32 five-wicket hauls and three 10-wicket hauls, with standout moments such as his exceptional spell of 7 for 42 against the West Indies at Lord’s in 2017.

Personal Message and Acknowledgments

Anderson expressed heartfelt gratitude to his family, teammates, and fans in his retirement announcement for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He credited them with making his tenure as an England cricketer immensely fulfilling and memorable.

“Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test,” Anderson wrote in an Instagram post. “It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid. I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to, because there is no greater feeling.

“I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of Daniella, Lola, Ruby and my parents. A huge thank you to them. Also, thank you to the players and coaches who have made this the best job in the world.

Transition and Future Plans

Looking ahead, Anderson is eager to embrace new challenges and indulge in his passion for golf. Despite bidding farewell to Test cricket, he remains committed to contributing to the sport in various capacities and enthusiastically looks forward to the next chapter of his life.

“I’m excited for the new challenges that lie ahead, as well as filling my days with even more golf,” he added. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years, it’s always meant a lot, even if my face often doesn’t show it.”

Conversations with Brendon McCullum

Recent discussions between Anderson and Test head coach Brendon McCullum shed light on the team’s strategic approach towards nurturing young talent and transitioning towards a more youthful squad. Anderson’s insights and experience are invaluable in shaping the future of English cricket.

Despite being almost 42 years old, Anderson has maintained remarkable fitness levels throughout his career. However, recent Test performances and his limited usage in matches indicate a potential shift in England’s bowling strategies, with a greater emphasis on managing his workload.

Colin Munro, a stalwart of New Zealand cricket, recently announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of a remarkable career over a decade. Munro’s announcement comes after he missed out on selection for New Zealand’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad despite his availability and illustrious record in the shortest format of the game.

Munro’s Career in International Cricket

Throughout his career, Munro has been a pivotal figure in the New Zealand cricketing landscape. With appearances in all three game formats, Munro showcased his versatility and prowess as a dynamic batsman. From Tests to T20Is, he left an indelible mark on the sport.

See Also: Women’s T20 World Cup 2024: India will face Pakistan in Slyhet

Despite his desire to represent his country again on the international stage, Munro’s hopes were dashed with his omission from the T20 World Cup squad. New Zealand coach Gray Stead confirmed that Munro was under consideration but did not make the final cut.

Munro’s Reflections on His Career

In a statement following his retirement announcement, Munro expressed gratitude for the opportunity to represent New Zealand. He reflected on the honour of donning the Black Caps jersey and his pride in playing for his country on 123 occasions across all formats. He played one Test, 57 ODIs and 65 T20Is for the New Zealand.

“Playing for the Black Caps has always been the biggest achievement in my playing career,” Munro said. “I never felt prouder than donning that jersey, and the fact that I’ve been able to do that 123 times across all formats is something I will always be incredibly proud of.

“Although it has been a while since my last appearance, I never gave up hope that I might be able to return off the back of my franchise T20 form. With the announcement of the Black Caps squad for the T20 World Cup now is the perfect time to close that chapter officially.”

Highlights of Munro’s International Career

Munro’s international career is studded with remarkable achievements and memorable performances. His explosive batting style made him a fan favourite, with notable innings including a blistering 47-ball century against West Indies and a record-breaking 14-ball half-century against Sri Lanka in T20Is.

Tributes and Recognition

New Zealand Cricket hailed Munro as a pioneer of modern batting, crediting him with revolutionizing the aggressive, 360-degree style of play embraced worldwide. CEO Scott Weenink praised Munro’s innovative approach to the game and thanked him for his significant contributions to New Zealand cricket.

“Colin was one of our first players to embrace the aggressive, 360-degree style batting that is now accepted all around the world as best practice,” Weenink said.

“He was one of the pioneers of the new game, an innovative batsman who took calculated risk-taking to a new level, and led what was to become a revolution in the way short-form cricket was played. We thank him for his amazing contribution in more than hundred international games, and wish him well in his future pursuits.”

Munro’s legacy extends beyond his performances. He played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of batting techniques, particularly in the game’s shorter formats. His fearless approach to batting inspired a generation of cricketers and contributed to the transformation of T20 cricket.