Nicholas Pooran Announces Shock Retirement from International Cricket at 29
June 10, 2025 | Cricbuzz Staff
In a move that has stunned cricket fans around the world, Nicholas Pooran, one of the most dynamic and prolific batters in T20 cricket, has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of 29.
Pooran, who last featured for the West Indies in December 2024, is the most-capped player for the Caribbean side in T20 Internationals and their all-time leading run-scorer in the format. His departure leaves a significant void in the middle order as West Indies prepare for the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, just eight months away.
A Career of Explosive Brilliance
Having debuted in a T20I in September 2016 and in ODIs in February 2019, Pooran never featured in the Test format. Despite a relatively short international career, his impact was enormous—particularly in white-ball cricket.
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106 T20I matches
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2,275 T20I runs, most by any West Indian
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Most sixes in 2024 (170)
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500+ runs and 40 sixes in IPL 2025, his most successful IPL season yet
Pooran captained the West Indies in limited-overs formats in 2022, but following a disappointing first-round exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup, he stepped down from leadership duties.
Despite stepping back from international cricket, Pooran is expected to continue his franchise cricket commitments worldwide, where his explosive batting remains in high demand.
Pooran's Statement
Announcing his decision on Instagram, Pooran expressed deep gratitude:
“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.
Though this international chapter of my career closes, my love for West Indies cricket will never fade.”
Cricket West Indies Responds
In an official statement, Cricket West Indies (CWI) paid tribute to Pooran’s legacy:
“A world-class player and a game changer, Nicholas leaves the game as the most capped West Indian in T20Is and the leading run scorer. His performances and influence have made a lasting impact on West Indies cricket.”
Nicholas Pooran's retirement marks the end of an era for West Indies white-ball cricket, but his contributions—both as a player and a leader—will continue to resonate across the cricketing world.
