Former India leg-spinner Karn Sharma announces retirement from all forms of cricket

Former India leg-spinner Karn Sharma has retired from all forms of cricket at the age of 38, bringing an end to a career that lasted more than two decades. Sharma played one Test, two ODIs and one T20I for India, with his last international appearance coming in November 2014. “My station has arrived, I am already 38 and I feel there is no point in playing anymore. The more I play, I will occupy the place of a young player in the team. There is no point in staying in playing when you know that India call will never come. So I spoke to my family and friends and they said, it’s the right time,” Sharma told The Indian Express.

A career filled with achievements

Sharma made his only Test appearance against Australia in Adelaide in 2014. He later found it difficult to return to the national team as R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja became established in India's spin department. Despite that, Sharma looks back at his career with satisfaction. He played 97 First-Class matches, taking 270 wickets, and represented Uttar Pradesh, Railways, Vidarbha and Andhra. He also featured in more than 90 IPL matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings, winning four IPL titles. “God gave me everything which I never dreamt of. When I began to play cricket, my dream was always to play for India and play all three formats for the Indian team. There are very few players who play all three formats. I did all the hard work, gave all I had. Somewhere in destiny it was written that I will play these games and am happy. I want to thank everyone, my family, friends, coaches, trainers, various Ranji and IPL sides. Physios, trainers and groundsmen, all played a part in my career,” he added.

Looking ahead

Sharma said receiving his India Test cap remains one of the most memorable moments of his career. “Getting a Test cap remains a special place in my heart. It was the best day for sure. Playing for India and learning I got will hold a special place for sure. Everytime I played, I gave it all I had, I always tried to learn and improve. The time has come for me to say goodbye and sign off cap number 283,” he explains. He has no immediate plans after retirement but wants to remain connected with cricket. “I don’t know, it will be hard to say at the moment but I want to give back to the game. If someone needs my help, I will be there. I will be going into my second innings of my life post retirement, will see what opportunities come my way,” he said.