In a shocking move that has shocked the cricketing fraternity, West Indies explosive batter and ex-T20I skipper Nicholas Pooran has called it quits from international cricket at the tender age of 29. He made the announcement through a heartfelt social media post, just days after he chose not to participate in the soon-to-commence West Indies vs England T20I series.
Nicholas Pooran Retirement Decision Raises Eyebrows
Pooran’s decision to retire has generated immense controversy among fans and experts. Having scored more than 4,200 runs in 61 ODIs and 106 T20Is, Pooran was one of the Caribbean’s top white-ball players. His aggressive batting approach, rapid scoring rate, and occasional leadership roles had made him a match-winner for the Windies.
Yet, the timing of his retirement—at an age when cricketers in general are on top of their games—is a cause for many eyebrows. Some pundits and fans have reasoned that Pooran’s move could be dictated by the money attraction of franchise cricket. Critics in turn have argued that he has made the choice to play in high-paying T20 leagues ahead of the national team, leaving many thinking about the destiny of West Indies cricket.
Pooran's Heartfelt Statement
In his farewell message, Pooran penned:
“After a lot of contemplation and thinking, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d like to announce my retirement from international cricket. This sport we cherish has given and will continue to give so much—joy, purpose, unforgettable memories, and an opportunity to represent the people of the West Indies.”. Wearing that maroon, standing for the anthem, and laying everything on the line every time I took the field… it’s difficult to explain what that really means to me. Having captained the team is something that will always stay close to my heart.”
He also expressed deep gratitude to his teammates, family, and fans and said:
“To the fans—thank you for your unfailing love.”. You supported me in the hard times and shared in the joy of the good times with unbridled enthusiasm. To my friends, family and colleagues—thank you for being part of the journey. Your encouragement and faith sustained me through all of it. This overseas chapter of my career comes to a close but my passion for West Indies Cricket will never waver. I want the region and the team nothing but success and power for the future.
The IPL Connection
Pooran announced his decision on the heels of his incredible performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 campaign, playing for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as vice-captain. He was among the leading run-getters towards the end of the season, scoring 524 runs in 14 matches. In spite of his exceptional play, LSG narrowly missed the playoffs and ended the season seventh on the table.
This phenomenal IPL performance has only added fuel to rumors that Pooran’s early retirement was motivated by the financial stability and round-the-year opportunities of franchise cricket around the world. While some opine that it’s his choice to look after himself, others have criticized him for “cheating the nation” by walking away from international assignments at a tender age.
Franchise Focus: A Growing Trend
Pooran’s retirement echoes a growing trend in modern cricket, where players choose to focus on franchise T20 leagues instead of juggling the demanding international calendar. Playing 365 days a year for different franchises offers significant earnings and exposure, but it also means turning down the chance to represent one’s country.
For the West Indies squad, already under pressure to keep its best and brightest players, Pooran’s move is another loss. Fans of cricket in the region, as fervent in their devotion as any, will miss watching Pooran’s fireworks in maroon.
What Lies Ahead for Nicholas Pooran Retirement
While Pooran says goodbye to international cricket, his franchise career continues to go strong. With his batting ability, he is likely to remain a sizzling hot transferable commodity in T20 circuits globally—from the IPL to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Big Bash League (BBL), and many more.
For West Indies fans, Pooran’s retirement is a sweet-sour affair. Though his brilliance will keep illuminating T20 leagues, the gap he leaves in the Caribbean team will be difficult to bridge.
