Former Indian cricketer Ankit Rajpoot has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 31, bringing an end to a career that spanned over 15 years.
The Uttar Pradesh pacer made the announcement on December 16, 2024, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he received throughout his journey in the sport.
Retirement Announcement and Career Reflection
Rajpoot took to social media to share his decision, stating, “Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from Indian Cricket. My journey from 2009-2024 has been the most wonderful period of my life.”
He thanked various organizations, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, and several Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises such as Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Punjab Kings (PBKS), Rajasthan Royals (RR), and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).
Throughout his career, Rajpoot represented India A and played in various domestic formats. He participated in 80 First-Class matches, 50 List-A games, and 97 T20 matches, accumulating a total of 424 wickets. His IPL career included appearances in 29 matches where he took 24 wickets, with his last game being in 2020.
Ankit Rajpoot’s Future Plans
In his retirement note, Rajpoot expressed excitement about exploring new opportunities within the cricketing world and its business aspects.
He indicated a desire to remain involved in the sport he loves while challenging himself in new environments. “I believe that this is the next step in my journey as a cricketer, and I look forward to this new chapter in my life,” he added.
Ankit Rajpoot’s Career Highlights
Ankit Rajpoot’s career highlights include:
- Domestic Success: Rajpoot was a key player for Uttar Pradesh in domestic cricket and made significant contributions to their campaigns.
- IPL Stints: He played for several franchises over the years, gaining valuable experience and showcasing his skills on a larger platform.
- International Representation: Although he did not have a long international career, his performances for India A and in domestic circuits highlighted his potential as a fast bowler.
