Nicholas Pooran Announces Shock International Retirement at 29, Ending Illustrious West Indies Career

In a surprising turn of events, West Indies cricketing stalwart Nicholas Pooran, aged just 29, has announced his immediate retirement from international cricket. The decision, revealed on Monday, brings to a close a dynamic career that saw him become the West Indies' most capped T20I player and highest run-scorer in the format.

Pooran's retirement comes as a particular shock given his recent prolific form and past declarations of continued international ambition. As recently as November last year, on the occasion of his 100th T20I appearance, he had expressed a desire to play "100 more T20Is." His absence from the recent T20I series against England and his last ODI appearance dating back to the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifiers had hinted at a shift, but a full retirement was largely unexpected, especially with the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, where he was anticipated to play a crucial role.

A HEARTFELT FAREWELL FROM THE SKIPPER

In a poignant statement shared across his social media platforms, Pooran articulated the profound meaning of representing the West Indies. "After much thought and reflection, I've decided to announce my retirement from international cricket," he wrote. "This game we love has given and will continue to give so much - joy, purpose, unforgettable memories, and a chance to represent the people of the West Indies. Wearing that maroon, standing for the anthem, and giving everything I had each time I stepped on the field... it's hard to put into words what that truly means to me. To have led the team as captain is a privilege I will always hold close to my heart."

He extended his gratitude to the fans, family, friends, and teammates, acknowledging their unwavering support. "Though this international chapter of my career closes, my love for West Indies Cricket will never fade. I wish the team and the region nothing but success and strength for the road ahead."

A CAREER DEFINED BY EXPLOSIVE BATTING AND LEADERSHIP

Pooran's journey with the West Indies began in 2016 with his T20I debut against Pakistan. Three years later, he earned his maiden ODI cap against England. In 2022, he was entrusted with the white-ball captaincy, a role he relinquished after a challenging T20 World Cup campaign in Australia. His last international appearance for the West Indies was in December 2024, during a home T20I series against Bangladesh in Kingstown.

Despite stepping away, Pooran leaves behind an impressive statistical legacy. In 106 T20Is, he amassed 2275 runs at an average of 26.14 and a striking strike rate of 136.39. In ODIs, he scored 1983 runs in 61 matches, averaging 39.66 with a strike rate of 99.15.

Notably, 2024 proved to be a standout year for Pooran in terms of his hitting prowess. He set a remarkable record by hitting the most sixes in a calendar year (170) and concluded IPL 2025 with an astounding 524 runs at a strike rate of 196.25, including five half-centuries.

Focus Shifts to Global Franchise Cricket

While his international chapter concludes, Pooran's presence will continue to be felt on the global cricketing stage. A highly sought-after player in franchise leagues, he is expected to feature prominently in the MLC and The Hundred this summer, alongside his regular appearances in the CPL, IPL, and ILT20.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) acknowledged Pooran's contributions in a statement on Monday. "Cricket West Indies extends sincere gratitude and appreciation to Nicholas Pooran for his outstanding contributions to West Indies cricket," the statement read. "We salute his achievements and thank him for the moments he has given fans across the region and beyond. We wish him all the very best in the next phase of his journey."