Port of Spain, June 10, 2025:
In a surprising turn of events, West Indies cricketer Nicholas Pooran has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 29, bringing an abrupt end to a promising career that once symbolized the future of Caribbean cricket.
Pooran made the announcement via a heartfelt social media post on Tuesday morning, expressing gratitude to fans, teammates, and the West Indies Cricket Board while citing personal reasons and a desire to focus on franchise cricket.
“It’s Time to Move On”:
“This decision hasn’t been easy, but after much reflection, I believe it’s the right time for me to step away from the international game,” Pooran wrote. “Wearing the maroon was always my dream, and I gave it everything I had. Now, I need to focus on my next chapter.”
Pooran did not indicate any immediate plans for coaching or administrative roles but hinted that he will continue to play in T20 leagues around the world. Sources close to the player say the decision stems from a combination of fatigue, injuries, and the increasingly packed global schedule.
A Career of Highs and Hurdles:
Known for his explosive batting and stylish strokeplay, Pooran made his international debut in 2016 and quickly established himself as one of the most exciting talents in white-ball cricket. He played 63 ODIs and 85 T20Is for the West Indies, scoring over 3,000 international runs combined, including a century in both formats.
Pooran captained the West Indies in T20Is during a difficult transitional period but often drew praise for his commitment and passion for the team. However, inconsistent performances by the side, coupled with administrative challenges in West Indies cricket, often left him frustrated.
Franchise Star:
Despite mixed fortunes in international cricket, Pooran remains one of the most sought-after players in global T20 leagues. He has featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), earning acclaim for his finishing abilities and dynamic presence behind the stumps.
His performances in the 2024 IPL and T20 World Cup further solidified his status as a franchise superstar, even as West Indies failed to progress deep in the latter tournament.
Reactions from the Cricket World:
Tributes have poured in from fellow cricketers and fans, many expressing surprise but also understanding. Former West Indies great Brian Lara commented, “Nicholas had the spark, the X-factor. We would have loved to see him lead the team for a few more years, but we respect his choice.”
Cricket West Indies released a statement thanking Pooran for his service, calling him “a true entertainer and ambassador for West Indies cricket.
While Pooran’s international journey ends earlier than many expected, his cricket career is far from over. With the booming T20 circuit and the potential for media and mentorship roles, he remains a central figure in the global cricket conversation.
For West Indies, the search begins for a new finisher and a leader in the white-ball format. And for fans, the hope is that Pooran’s legacy will inspire the next generation—even if his own maroon jersey is now hung up for good.
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