In a shocking development, West Indies' premier batter Nicholas Pooran has announced his retirement from international cricket. The left-hander, arguably among the most destructive white-ball batters at the moment, leaves the game as West Indies' top run-scorer and most capped player in the shortest format of the game.
Pooran made the revelation through a statement on his Instagram account on Tuesday, June 10.
"To the fans - thank you for your unwavering love. You lifted me in the tough moments and celebrated the good ones with unmatched passion. To my family, friends and teammates - thank you for walking the journey with me. Your belief and support carried me through it all. Though this international chapter of my career closes, my love for West Indies Cricket will never fade. I wish the team and the region nothing but success and strength for the road ahead."
From a young boy with a dream to wear the Maroon, to a global star inspiring millions — WI thank you, Nicky P. 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/2UPsXCGQgy
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) June 9, 2025
Pooran's decision comes at a time when he is at the peak of his powers in the shorter formats of the game, especially T20 cricket. In 2024, no batter hit more sixes than Pooran (170) in the shortest format, and it was a record that he replicated in IPL 2025 too, smashing 40 sixes to top the charts. With the 2026 T20 World Cup less than a year away, the southpaw was touted to lead West Indies' batting might at the premier tournament. Given his short yet impactful captaincy stint, Pooran's leadership will also be missed.
Cricket West Indies (CWI) responded to Pooran's announcement with a statement of courtesy. It must also be remembered that Pooran had opted out of the ongoing England tour to take a break following the rigorous IPL season.
"Cricket West Indies extends sincere gratitude and appreciation to Nicholas Pooran for his outstanding contributions to West Indies cricket," a statement from CWI said on Monday.
"We salute his achievements and thank him for the moments he has given fans across the region and beyond. We wish him all the very best in the next phase of his journey."
Pooran finishes his career with 2275 T20I runs at a strike-rate of 136 from 106 games. His ODI returns were also reasonable, given his style of play. From 61 games, Pooran aggregated 1983 runs at an average of 39.66 and an impressive strike rate of 99, including a fine 2019 ODI World Cup campaign. However, he was unable to replicate his T20I skills in ODIs. Apart from featuring in the T20 World Cup next year, the ODI World Cup in 2027 would have been a significant target in Pooran's roadmap.
The Trinidadian will continue to ply his trade in franchise leagues around the world, notably the IPL, CPL and BBL.
