by Elton Gomes
West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo Thursday announced that he will be retiring from all forms of international cricket. In a statement addressed to the media, the 35-year-old said that he will always remember the moment when he received his maiden cap 14 years ago.
Today I want to confirm to the cricket world that I have officially retired from international cricket in all formats of the game. After 14 years when I made my debut for the West Indies, I still remember that moment I received the maroon cap before walking onto the Lords Cricket Ground against England in July 2004, Bravo said, the Indian Express reported.
Bravo added that it was finally time for him to pass on the mantle to next generation of players. However, I must accept that for me to preserve my longevity as a professional cricketer, I must do as others before have done, leave the international arena for the next generation of players.
The Windies all-rounder expressed gratitude to his family and fans for their support throughout his career. I thank the countless persons who were instrumental to my success, particularly my family and QPCC where I developed my skills at an early age. I thank the many loyal fans who continue to support my journey and who recognize my efforts on and off the field.
“I am extremely fortunate to have a career that has taken me across the globe into the most prestigious dressing rooms sharing experiences with all the recent legends of this glorious game. I will continue my professional career as a cricketer and entertainer living as a true champion, Bravo said, the Indian Express reported.
A prolific all-rounder
Bravo was captain of the Windies team that dramatically returned home mid-way during the series in India, as the team protested against their board. That was the last time Bravo featured in an ODI for the Windies.
He became the first West Indies player to lead his nation in both Tests as well as ODIs by the age of 24. In 2013, he replaced Darren Sammy and was appointed as the permanent captain of the national side replacing Darren Sammy.
The 35-year-old all-rounder made his debut in 2004 and played a total of 40 Tests, 164 ODIs, and 66 T20Is for the Windies. He ends his career with 2,200 runs and 86 wickets in Tests; 2,968 runs and 199 wickets in ODIs; and 1,142 runs and 52 wickets in T20I cricket.
Bravo has also scored 3 Test hundreds and 2 ODI hundreds. The seamer contributed to the international side with 86 wickets in Test matches and 199 ODI wickets.
After a fallout with the West Indies cricket board, Bravo became a favourite amongst most teams in domestic franchise T20 tournaments like the Indian Premier League (IPL). His ability with the ball, athletic fielding, and unorthodox batting made him a perfect fit for the shorter version of the game.
After his retirement, Bravo, who currently plays for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, will continue to play in T20 leagues across the world.
Elton Gomes is a staff writer at Qrius