Murali Vijay announces retirement from international cricket
Veteran Indian opener Murali Vijay has announced his international retirement after playing his last match for India in 2018. Vijay announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket via his official Twitter handle on Monday, January 30.
Murali Vijay made his debut for the national team in 2008 during India’s home Test series against the Aussies. Vijay, who emerged as a T20 star after his exceptional batting prowess in the IPL, transformed into a red-ball specialist for the Indian team, especially during the testing tours of England, South Africa, and Australia.
“Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from all forms of International cricket. My journey from 2002-2018 has been the most wonderful years of my life for it was an honor representing India at the highest level of the sport. I am grateful for the opportunities given to me by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Tamil Nadu Cricket Association(TNCA), Chennai Super Kings, and Chemplast Sanmar. To all my teammates, coaches, mentors, and support staff: It has been an absolute privilege to have played with you all, and, I thank you all for helping turn my dream into reality. To cricket fans that have supported me through the ups & downs of international sport, I will forever cherish the moments I spent with you all, and your support has always been a source of motivation for me,” Murali Vijay said in an official statement.
Vijay last played for India during their tour of Australia in 2018, but a lean run of form with the bat saw him dropped from the national team. He failed to regain his place on the side as India opted for younger players instead of the 38-year-old. His last competitive outing came for the Ruby Trichy Warriors during last year’s Tamil Nadu Premier League.
Earlier this month, the veteran cricketer had blasted the BCCI for turning a blind eye towards aging players. He even expressed his desire to play competitive cricket in foreign leagues. The Chennai-born cricketer represented India in 61 Tests, 17 ODIs, and nine T20Is over a decade on the international stage.
“I am excited to announce that I will be exploring new opportunities in the world of cricket & the business side of it, where I will also continue to participate in the sport that I love and challenge myself in new and different environment. 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. I wish all my former teammates and the Indian cricket team all the best for future endeavors,” he further added.
