New Delhi – Veteran leg‑spinner Yuzvendra Chahal announced on Friday that he is retiring from first‑class cricket, concluding a near‑decade‑long stint with the red ball while reaffirming his desire to return to India’s ODI and T20I squads.
A Red‑Ball Farewell
In a heartfelt note, Chahal reflected on a journey that began at the age of ten, when the first ball he ever grasped was, indeed, red. He described first‑class cricket as more than just another format, crediting it with instilling patience, resilience and the mental toughness required to survive long spells on the field.
Although a Test cap never materialised, he expressed sincere gratitude for the memories and opportunities the longer format afforded, acknowledging how it shaped the bowler he has become.
148 Wickets in 49 Matches
The 36‑year‑old wraps up his first‑class ledger with 148 wickets at an average of 32.27, his best figures a tidy 6 for 25. His most recent assignment was with Northamptonshire in England’s county circuit.
Chahal’s final first‑class outing took place at Lord’s against Middlesex, where he dismissed two batsmen. In the 2026‑27 County Championship he claimed 21 wickets across five matches, highlighted by a nine‑wicket haul versus Durham.
Eyes on an ODI/T20I Return
Even as he steps away from the red ball, Chahal made it clear he isn’t shutting the door on international cricket. In his farewell message he reiterated his hunger to represent India in limited‑overs formats and insisted he still has plenty of cricket left in him.
He also extended thanks to the Haryana Cricket Association and key mentors – Ranbir Singh Mahindra and Anirudh Singh Choudhary – for their unwavering support throughout his career.
With the first‑class chapter now closed, Chahal’s focus shifts entirely to the shorter formats, hoping to earn his way back into the Indian side.
