Indian wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on a career that saw him play seven Test matches for the country. The 32-year-old shared an emotional message on social media, reflecting on the sacrifices, support and determination that helped him achieve his dream of representing India.Although Bharat earned a reputation as a safe pair of hands behind the stumps and was part of India’s squad for the 2023 World Test Championship final, he struggled to secure a long-term place in the Test side. His final appearance came against England in Visakhapatnam in February 2024. Across seven Tests, he scored 221 runs and finished with 18 catches and one stumping. Announcing his decision, Bharat penned, “With a proud heart and sense of gratitude, I announce my retirement from international Cricket. To play for my country has been the greatest honour of my life. This journey of mine has demanded great resilience and strength but the Honour to represent India in Tests worth every moment.”In his farewell note, Bharat paid tribute to his family, crediting them for supporting his cricketing ambitions from childhood.“In a family of four, we all lived the same dream over two decades, a big heart to my sister, mom and dad for creating an environment and support system they have been. I am a product of their love, discipline and hard work,” he wrote.Bharat also thanked the BCCI, Andhra Cricket Association, Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association, teammates and groundsmen for helping shape his career.He added, “Thank you, BCCI and all the coaches and managers who I came across in my career and who supported me unconditionally by creating a great environment to play and excel at the highest level.”The wicketkeeper reserved special praise for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, all of whom played key roles in his journey.He concluded, “A big thank you to my IPL debut captain Virat Kohli for giving me an opportunity to show my skill and come into recognition. A big thank you to my Indian captain Rohit Sharma under whom I made my Test debut which is priceless and beyond words. To my Indian coach Rahul Dravid sir, his guidance from India A to Indian team is unforgettable.”
