Nicholas Pooran aged 29, calls time on his international cricket career

Days after Glenn Maxwell and Heinrich Klaasen decided to retire from international cricket, yet another player has joined the fray. Nicholas Pooran has hung up his boots at the age of 29. The left-handed batter was recently seen playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the recently concluded IPL 2025 season. Pooran played ODI and T20I cricket for the West Indies and had even captained the side. 

The left-handed batter, in the course of his career, didn’t play Test cricket, having played just five first-class matches. It is a huge loss for West Indian cricket, who are looking to qualify for the 2027 ODI World Cup. There is also the 2026 T20 World Cup set to be hosted by India and Sri Lanka. 

Taking to his Instagram handle, Pooran posted a message which read, “After much thought and reflection, I've decided to announce my retirement from international cricket." The post had more than 80,000 likes and over 2,500 comments, as many were shocked with Pooran’s decision to call time on his career. 

‘My love for West Indies cricket will never fade’ – Nicholas Pooran

The 29-year-old also 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."

Pooran went on to add, “To the fans – thank you for your unwavering love. You lifted me in the tough moments and celebrated the good ones with unmatched passion. To my family, friends, and teammates – thank you for walking this journey with me. Your belief and support carried me through it all."

“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." Nicholas Pooran ended by saying.