10 cricketers who retired early: From Nicholas Pooran to Ayesha Naseem and more
Nicholas Pooran's recent retirement from international cricket at just 29 years old has reignited discussions about players who walked away from the sport in their prime. While the reasons range from mental health and injuries to faith and career setbacks, each story reflects a unique journey. Here are 10 cricketers who stunned fans with early exits:
1. Nicholas Pooran (West Indies)
At 29, Pooran announced his international retirement despite being West Indies' most-capped T20I player and leading run-scorer. He cited personal reflection and gratitude for the journey, with no specific reason but hints of shifting priorities.
2. Ayesha Naseem (Pakistan)
The promising 18-year-old batter retired suddenly to lead a more devout Islamic life. Debuting in 2020, she had already made a mark in both T20Is and ODIs, and her departure leaves a gap in Pakistan's future plans.
3. Sarah Taylor (England)
England's legendary wicketkeeper retired at 30, citing long-term anxiety issues. Taylor won multiple ICC titles and is remembered as one of the finest gloveswomen in women's cricket.
4. Unmukt Chand (India)
India's U-19 World Cup-winning captain from 2012 retired at 28 after struggling to break through in senior-level cricket. He later moved to the U.S. to pursue cricketing opportunities.
5. Munaf Patel (India)
The fast bowler, instrumental in India's 2011 World Cup win, quietly retired at 28 after being dropped from the national side. Persistent injuries and lack of selection led to his decision.
6. Pragyan Ojha (India)
Ojha was only 27 when sidelined from the Indian Test squad. Despite 113 wickets in 24 Tests, competition from Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja curtailed his career.
7. AB de Villiers (South Africa)
Known for redefining modern batting, de Villiers shocked the world by retiring at 34 while still dominating world cricket. He cited fatigue and the pressure of international cricket.
9. Aaqib Javed (Pakistan)
A key figure in Pakistan's 1992 World Cup-winning squad, Javed retired at 26 amid match-fixing controversies. His early debut at 16 and swift exit make his story notable.
10. Craig Kieswetter (England)
Kieswetter's career ended at 25 due to an eye injury. He was instrumental in England's 2010 T20 World Cup win and was seen as a long-term wicketkeeper option.
11. James Taylor (England)
Taylor's career was cut short at 26 due to a serious heart condition. A consistent performer in ODIs, he averaged 42 and was seen as a key future player.
These stories underline how unpredictable sporting careers can be, shaped not just by form and stats but personal battles, faith, and fate.
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