In a shocking announcement, veteran batsman Saurabh Tiwary has announced his retirement from professional cricket. The 34-year-old left-hander, known for his aggressive strokeplay, will retire after representing Jharkhand in their final Ranji Trophy match against Rajasthan, which is scheduled to start on February 15 in Jamshedpur.Tiwarys cricketing journey began at the young age of 11. He burst onto the scene with a stellar performance in the 2008 Under-19 World Cup triumph alongside Virat Kohli, a tournament that kickstarted his promising career.BREAKING NEWS 🚨#SaurabhTiwary announces his retirement from professional cricketSaurabh will play his careers final match on 16th February for Jharkhand at Jamshedpur (Jharkhands last league match of Ranji Trophy 2023-24).📷: BCCI #RanjiTrophy #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/vRdYGghft7— Niche Sports (@Niche_Sports) February 12, 2024Announcing his decision at a press conference, Tiwary said, Its tough to say goodbye to a journey that began even before I started school, he confessed. However, I believe this is the right time. Without regular national teams or IPL appearances, its better to make space for younger talents in the state team. Theyre getting opportunities in the Test squad, and I want to facilitate that, he further explained.Impeccable record on domestic circuitIn his 115 first-class appearances in the domestic circuit, where he hammered 8030 runs for Jharkhand. Tiwarys 22 centuries and 34 fifties even surpassed the legendary MS Dhonis figures in the states record books.While his international career was limited to three ODIs with 49 runs, Tiwarys prowess in the IPL cannot be ignored. He secured 1494 runs at a healthy average of 28.73 and a blistering strike rate of 120.Saurabh Tiwary to join politics!Despite stepping away from playing, Tiwary remains firmly tethered to the game. This decision isnt solely based on performances. Look at my Ranji record and last seasons domestic performance, he asserted. Everyone asks whats next, and while I only know cricket, Ive received a political offer which I havent considered yet, he revealed, emphasizing his enduring love for the sport. Saurabh Tiwarys retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His powerful left-handed batting and contributions to both domestic and international levels will be remembered fondly by fans.
