Varun Aaron announces retirement from professional cricket
Indian pacer Varun Aaron has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, ending his 20-year-long career. Aaron shared the news with a post on Instagram and credited the sport that shaped his life and the support system that sustained him through numerous challenges.
Aaron first came under the spotlight during the 2010-11 Vijay Hazare Trophy final, where he touched a speed of 153 kph. His ability to consistently bowl at rapid pace earned him a spot in the national team, where he represented India in nine Tests and nine ODIs, taking a total of 29 wickets. Despite a good start, his international career was cut short due to constant injuries.
“For the past 20 years, I have lived, breathed, and thrived on the rush of bowling fast. Today, with immense gratitude, I officially announce my retirement from representative cricket. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without God, my family, friends, teammates, coaches, support staff and fans. Over the years, I’ve had to push both my physical and mental limits to recover from numerous career-threatening injuries, having to come back time and again, this was only possible thanks to the relentless dedication of the physios, trainers, and coaches at the National Cricket Academy.”
“I’d also like to thank the BCCI, JSCA, Red Bull, SG Cricket, and MRF Tyres for their invaluable support during critical junctures in my career. As I bid farewell to a pursuit that has consumed me completely, I now look forward to savoring the smaller joys in life while staying deeply connected to the game that has given me everything. Fast Bowling has been my first love, and though I step off the field, it will always be a part of who I am,” he wrote.
Varun Aaron made his international debut in 2011
In February 2024, Aaron announced his retirement from domestic red-ball cricket, citing the physical toll it had taken on his body. Meanwhile, he continued to play for Jharkhand’s domestic team and played his final game against Goa in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy on January 5, 2025.
The Bihar-born made his Test debut against the West Indies at Wankhede Stadium in November 2011 and played his last Test against South Africa in Bengaluru in 2015. His ODI debut came against England in October 2011, with his final appearance in the format coming against Sri Lanka in November 2014. The speedster has also featured in 52 IPL matches for teams such as Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Gujarat Titans.
