Indian wicket-keeper bat KS Bharat has announced his retirement from international cricket. Bharat took to his social media handle to reveal the news on Thursday. The Andhar gloveman played seven Test matches for India, scoring 221 runs at an average of 20.09, with a highest score of 44.
Bharat made his Test debut against Australia in 2023. While he was brilliant behind the stumps, he could not deliver consistent performances with the bat. He got off to starts on multiple occasions but could not convert them into substantial scores.
In 2015, he became the first wicket-keeper bat to score a triple century in the Ranji Trophy. Bharat gave his gratitude to his family members for playing a key role in his career.
“With a proud heart and sense of gratitude, I announce my retirement from international Cricket. To play for my country has been the greatest honour of my life. This journey of mine has demanded great resilience and strength but the Honour to represent India in Tests worth every moment. In a family of four, we all lived the same dream over two decades, a big heart to my sister, mom and dad for creating an environment and support system they have been. I am a product of their love, discipline and hardwork,” wrote Bharat on Instagram.
Meanwhile, KS Bharat was bought by Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2021 auction. One of his most remarkable performances came when he hit a final ball six against Delhi Capitals to help RCB win the thriller. Bharat scored 78 runs in that game and scored a total of 199 runs in nine IPL innings.
Bharat gave a message of dreaming big and working hard to the young players.
“My advice to young players is to dream big and work hard to achieve it. Dreams do come true with grit, discipline, hard work, and determination. If I could achieve my dream, so can you. My journey with BCCI and Test cricket may have come to an end, but my journey in the game continues. I will keep playing, contributing, and giving back to cricket by guiding, mentoring, and coaching the next generation who dream of making it big. I love India and I love cricket. Thank you for everything,” concluded Bharat.
