Cricket Shock: T20 Specialist Nicholas Pooran Announces Retirement from West Indies Duty at Just 29
*Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago – July 18, 2025* — In a stunning and emotional announcement that has sent ripples across the cricketing world, West Indies T20 star Nicholas Pooran has officially retired from international cricket at the age of 29. The aggressive left-handed batter and wicketkeeper, widely considered one of the most explosive T20 players of his generation, confirmed his decision in a heartfelt message to fans, teammates, and the Caribbean cricket community.
### A Sudden Exit
Pooran’s retirement from West Indies duty comes as a surprise, especially as he remains at the peak of his athletic form. Just weeks ago, he was seen smashing bowlers around the park in the ICC T20 World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in helping the West Indies reach the semifinals. His exit now leaves a massive void in the Windies’ batting line-up.
In an official statement shared on his personal social media accounts and through Cricket West Indies (CWI), Pooran wrote:
> “I have lived my dream of wearing the maroon jersey and representing the West Indies. But after deep reflection, I have decided to step away from international cricket to focus on my family, mental well-being, and new challenges in the sport I love. This is not goodbye to cricket — it’s just a different path.”
He expressed gratitude to his fans, coaches, and teammates, adding that he would continue to play T20 franchise cricket around the world.
### Career in Numbers
Nicholas Pooran made his T20I debut for the West Indies in 2016 and quickly built a reputation as a fearless power-hitter with an uncanny ability to dominate bowling attacks. Over a span of nearly a decade, he represented the West Indies in:
* **T20 Internationals**: 85 matches
* **Runs Scored**: 2,337
* **Strike Rate**: 143.4
* **50s**: 16
* **Highest Score**: 93\*
* **Wicketkeeping Dismissals**: 45 catches, 14 stumpings
Pooran also had stints in ODI and Test squads, though his impact was most pronounced in the T20 format, where he frequently turned games single-handedly.
He served as captain of the West Indies T20 team during a rebuilding phase and was credited with nurturing a new generation of talent despite mixed team performances.
### Fan and Team Reactions
Fans across the Caribbean and beyond have responded with a mixture of sadness, admiration, and disbelief. The hashtag #ThankYouPooran quickly trended on X (formerly Twitter), as tributes poured in from all corners of the cricketing world.
West Indies Cricket legend Brian Lara posted:
> “Nicholas Pooran brought joy to millions. His fearlessness and flair lit up stadiums. While this decision comes early, I respect it and wish him nothing but success.”
Current West Indies white-ball captain Rovman Powell said in a team-issued statement:
> “We are heartbroken but we support Nicky. He gave everything for this team. He will always be one of us, and his legacy in West Indies T20 cricket is secure.”
Cricket West Indies President Dr. Kishore Shallow added:
> “Pooran has been a beacon of entertainment and a true ambassador of Caribbean cricket. His contributions will never be forgotten. We hope to see him continue to inspire through franchise cricket.”
### The Rise of a T20 Giant
Nicholas Pooran’s rise in international cricket was nothing short of cinematic. A near-fatal car accident in 2015 almost ended his career before it began. But his resilience and determination saw him make a strong comeback, and he quickly rose through the ranks with his performances in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the IPL, and various other leagues worldwide.
He became a global T20 icon, playing for teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants, and Multan Sultans, where his six-hitting ability made him a prized asset.
Pooran was also known for his sportsmanship, humility, and connection with fans, often taking time to engage with children and grassroots cricket programs in his hometown in Trinidad.
### What’s Next?
Pooran has confirmed that he will continue to play in major T20 leagues globally, including the Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), and the Hundred in England. He is also expected to launch his own cricket academy in Trinidad aimed at training the next generation of West Indies stars.
Reports suggest that Pooran may soon take on a mentorship or consultancy role within T20 franchises, and speculation is already swirling around potential media and commentary opportunities.
### A Legacy Left Behind
Though his international career was shorter than many expected, Nicholas Pooran leaves behind a legacy of thrilling innings, unforgettable sixes, and moments of magic that embodied the spirit of West Indies cricket.
He exits not with regret, but with pride and love from fans who saw him grow from a talented teenager to one of the most feared batters in the modern T20 era.
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**Final Words**
In a region that lives and breathes cricket, Nicholas Pooran’s early retirement is a moment of both reflection and gratitude. While he may no longer wear the maroon jersey, his thunderous batting, unforgettable innings, and commitment to Caribbean cricket will echo in stadiums for years to come.
West Indies cricket says goodbye—for now—to one of its brightest T20 stars. And the world watches with interest, as Nicholas Pooran turns the page to the next exciting chapter of his cricket journey.
