Former CSK and RR pacer Ankit Rajpoot retires from Indian cricket at age 31

Ankit Rajpoot played 29 matches in the IPL for four franchises.

Uttar Pradesh pacer Ankit Rajpoot has retired from Indian cricket to explore “new opportunities in the world of cricket” and the “business side” of the sport.

The 31-year-old tall right-arm speedster made his Ranji Trophy debut in 2012 and his last first-class match was earlier this year in October. In 80 FC matches, Rajpoot snared 248 wickets at an average of 29.25 with nine five-wicket hauls.

He has played 50 List-A matches and 87 T20 matches in his professional career so far, in which he claimed 176 wickets.

Ankit Rajpoot played for four IPL franchises: Chennai Super Kings (2013), Kolkata Knight Riders (2016-17), Kings XI Punjab (2018-19), Rajasthan Royals (2020). In 29 IPL games from 2013 to 2020, he picked up 26 wickets with a best of 5/14.

He was part of the Lucknow Super Giants’ squad in IPL 2022 but didn’t get a game. Rajpoot went unsold in the recent mega auction.

Ankit Rajpoot is now eligible to play in overseas franchise leagues

With his from Indian cricket, Ankit Rajpoot is now eligible to take part in overseas franchise leagues and the Legends League as well.

“Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from Indian Cricket,” he wrote on social media. “My journey from 2009-2024 has been the most wonderful period of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities given to me by the Board of Control for India, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, Kanpur Cricket Association, IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Kings 11, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants,” Ankit Rajpoot wrote on a social media post.

“To all my team-mates, coaches, especially thanks to physio Dr Saif Naqvi, my coach Shashi sir and support staff; it has been an absolute privilege to played with you all, and, I thank you all for helping turn my dream into reality. To all my fans who have supported me through the ups & downs, I will forever cherish the moments I spent with you all and your support has always been a source of motivation for me. I would like to thank my family & friends for their unconditional love and support throughout my career. They have been my backbone and without them, I would not have been able to achieve what I have today.

“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 a 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 the best of luck to all the teammates from the various teams I’ve been a part of.”

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