Praveen Kumar Retires From Professional Cricket

Praveen Kumar, one of India's only a few pacers who could swing the ball in both sides, has decided to hang his boot on professional cricket as he has announced his retirement on Saturday, October 20.

"I have decided to retire from cricket. The decision is not taken in haste, I gave a thought over it and I felt it was a right time to say goodbye to the sport which gave me so much. I want to thank my family, BCCI, UPCA, Rajeev (Shukla) sir for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dreams," Praveen Kumar told to Indian Express.

The 32-year old last seen in international cricket in a T20 match against South Africa The Wanderers Stadium. He had claimed 112 wickets across all three formats. Despite his ability to swing the ball, he didn't get much to play for India in the white jersey. He was India's best bowler on England tour in 2011 but surprisingly, he didn't pick again in Test team.

He played only 6 Tests for India and in those he claimed 27 wickets with a healthy average of 25.81. However, unlike Test matches, he played 68 ODIs and grabbed 77 wickets while in 10 T20Is he picked 8 wickets. He played a vital role and claimed four-wicket hauls in the second final of the 2008 CB Series, bowling India to a rare series win in Australia. His ability t hit the ball hard also made him a valuable player for any side.

However, despite being a regular part of ODI side, his World Cup dream couldn't get wings as he was ruled out from the tournament after dengue illness denied him participation in a tournament that India eventually won.

Despite his last appearance in international cricket in 2012, Praveen Kumar continued to play domestic tournaments for Uttar Pradesh whom he made his debut during their Ranji Trophy-winning season of 2005-06. He had been able to attract selectors after he claimed 90 wickets in first two first-class seasons. He played the last of his 66 first-class games in October 2017. He finishes with 267 wickets at an average of 23.61.

Apart from India and Uttar Pradesh, Praveen Kumar has represented Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. He was one of only 13 bowlers to take a hat-trick in IPL.

Praveen Kumar has a desire to pursue his career in coaching. He has mentored his state team during the seasons of 2014-16.

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