West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard took to Instagram to announce his retirement on Wednesday (April 20) from the international cricket. ended his illustrious 15-year long career that consisted of 123 ODIs and 101 T20Is. However, the former West-Indies T20 skipper will continue to feature for his franchise Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League and other franchises across the globe.
The Caribbean talisman stated that his career had been a dream come true. He dreamed of representing the West Indies since he was ten years old and said that he was proud to have lived that dream for the past fifteen years.
“I can still vividly remember making my international debut in 2007 under the leadership of my childhood hero, Brian Lara. Wearing those maroon colours and playing alongside such greats has been a privilege that I never took lightly, soul in every facet of the game - whether bowling, batting or fielding.”
The explosive all-rounder said that he felt it was the right time to move on and make way for young talent. However, he stated that he would support West Indian cricket in whatever way he can.
The name Kieron Pollard will always remind fans of the towering Trinidadian, his dangerously gigantic sixes and his fiery performance in the 2009 T20 Champions League. He is feared in the T20 format by his opponents but remains one of the elite players of the format.
Pollard has been consistently performing for the Mumbai Indians, but his journey started when he gained a great deal of attention during the local Caribbean Premier League; since then, he has climbed his way to the top.
“As I move on and make room for those who will carry the game forward in West Indian colours, know that I will always be supporting in whatever way I can. It is with profound gratitude for living my dream that I now raise my bat in salute to all that is West Indies cricket.”
The former Windies batter expressed his gratitude for all the selection teams, management and coach Phil Simmons, who he believes was one of the biggest reasons for his success. He also thanked his fans and supporters, gave special mention to his teammates, and stated that they made his illustrious long career enjoyable and rewarding.