Nicholas Pooran Retires from International Cricket at 29 – Here’s Why
Nicholas Pooran has retired from international cricket at the age of 29.
Nicholas Pooran, one of the most exciting Caribbean batters in recent times, has announced his retirement from international cricket at the age of just 29. The Trinidad-born cricketer shared an emotional statement on Monday, confirming the end of his journey in West Indies colours.
“I Gave It Everything I Had”
In his statement, Pooran thanked fans, family, teammates, and the West Indies Cricket Board. He spoke about how special it was to wear the maroon jersey and how the support he received helped him through both good and tough times.
“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,” Pooran said.
He also mentioned how difficult it was to make the decision, but believed the time had come to move on from the international stage.
A Career That Inspired Millions
Pooran made his international debut in 2018, and by the 2019 World Cup, he had become a key member of the West Indies ODI side. In that tournament, he scored 367 runs, including his only ODI century — a brilliant 118 against Sri Lanka.
He played 54 ODIs, scoring 1,634 runs at an average of over 36. In T20Is, he appeared in 88 matches and scored 1,848 runs with a strike rate close to 135.
What made Pooran different was his fearless batting and ability to dominate spin bowlers. He also captained the West Indies in white-ball formats, a role he called a “privilege.”
From Accident To Stardom
Pooran’s journey was never easy. In 2015, he survived a serious car accident that almost ended his career before it began. He tore his patella tendon and broke bones in his leg. Many thought he would never return. But he fought back, thanks to support from senior players like Kieron Pollard.
He then made his mark in CPL and other global leagues before making it big for West Indies.
Pooran Shines In IPL
While he has retired from international cricket, Pooran continues to play franchise cricket around the world. In IPL 2024, he smashed 499 runs at a strike rate of 178. In 2025, he did even better, scoring 524 runs with a strike rate of 196.
He has played for teams like Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and currently, Lucknow Super Giants, where he remains a star performer.
“West Indies Cricket Will Always Be Part Of Me”
In his closing message, Pooran made it clear that his love for West Indies cricket will never fade:
“Though this international chapter of my career closes, my love for West Indies cricket will never die.”
Pooran’s early retirement has surprised many, but he leaves behind memories that fans will cherish forever. His story is a reminder that even setbacks can’t stop talent, and that passion, when combined with hard work, can overcome anything.
