New Delhi – Veteran Indian leg‑spinner Yuzvendra Chahal announced on Friday that he is hanging up his red‑ball boots, closing a first‑class chapter that stretched across almost ten years while confirming that his ambition to don the India jersey in ODIs and T20Is is still very much alive.
A Red‑Ball Goodbye
In his farewell note, Chahal reflected on a journey that began at the age of ten, when the first ball he ever held was a crimson one. He described first‑class cricket as more than just another format, crediting it with teaching him patience, resilience and the grit required to survive the longest spells on the field.
Although a Test cap never materialised, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the memories and opportunities the longer format afforded him, acknowledging how it helped shape the bowler he has become.
148 Wickets in 49 Matches
The 36‑year‑old wraps up his first‑class résumé with 148 wickets at an average of 32.27, his best figures a tidy 6 for 25. His most recent stint was with Northamptonshire in England’s county circuit.
Chahal’s final first‑class appearance came at Lord’s against Middlesex, where he claimed two scalps. During the 2026‑27 County Championship he collected 21 wickets in five games, highlighted by a nine‑wicket haul against Durham.
Aiming for an ODI/T20 Return
Even as he steps away from the red ball, Chahal made it clear that he is not closing the door on international cricket. In his parting message he reaffirmed his hunger to represent India in the limited‑overs formats and insisted he still has plenty of cricket left in him.
He also thanked the Haryana Cricket Association and key supporters – Ranbir Singh Mahindra and Anirudh Singh Choudhary – for their unwavering faith throughout his career.
With the first‑class chapter concluded, Chahal’s focus now shifts entirely to the shorter formats, hoping to earn his place back in the Indian side.
