Yuzvendra Chahal ends first‑class career
Key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 36 |
| International record | 72 ODIs, 80 T20Is – never played a Test |
| First‑class career | 49 matches, 148 wickets, average 32.27 |
| Last season (2026) | Northamptonshire, 21 wickets at 16.14 (County Championship Division 2) |
| Final first‑class match | vs. Middlesex at Lord’s – Northamptonshire lost by 7 wickets |
| Ranji Trophy | Last active season 2016‑17: 33 wickets in 7 games, average 22.60 |
| White‑ball status | Still active; last ODI/T20I appearance August 2023 |
| IPL | Leading wicket‑taker, plays for Punjab Kings |
Quotes from Chahal
“Red‑ball cricket was never just another format. It was where I learned the meaning of patience, character, resilience and the pure joy of being out there for hours, fighting for every run and every wicket.”
“I played my last First‑class match at Lord’s. Saying these words is emotional as a Test cap was always a dream, one that I carried with me for many years. I am genuinely content with the journey I have had and incredibly grateful for every opportunity that came my way in this format.”
“I am not done yet. The hunger to play for my country is still very much alive. I believe I have the cricket left in me, and I will give everything I have to earn another opportunity in the One‑Day and T20 formats.”
“A special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association, Mr. Ranbir Singh Mahindra Sir and Mr. Anirudh Singh Chaudhary Sir for their continuous support, trust and belief throughout my journey.”
“From a 10‑year‑old holding his first red ball to playing his final First‑class game, it has been one hell of a journey.”
Takeaway for writers
- Chahal has formally retired from first‑class cricket, closing the door on a Test career but keeping the possibility of a white‑ball return open.
- His legacy in the IPL and as a leading wicket‑taker remains intact.
- The emotional tone of his statements offers a human angle for feature pieces or commentary on the transition from red‑ball to limited‑overs formats.
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