Piyush Chawla Announces Retirement from Cricket After Two Decades
Piyush Chawla Bids Farewell to Cricket
Piyush Chawla, a seasoned leg-spinner and two-time World Cup champion, has officially declared his retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket. The 36-year-old shared his emotional farewell on Instagram on June 6, marking the conclusion of a remarkable career that lasted over twenty years. His retirement signifies the end of a significant chapter, particularly for fans who admired his skillful googlies and composed performances during critical matches.
A Legacy of Excellence
In his Instagram post, Chawla expressed heartfelt gratitude and nostalgia. As a member of India's victorious squads in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup, he leaves behind a legacy characterized by quiet yet impactful contributions to the sport.
"After more than two decades on the field, the time has come to bid adieu to the beautiful game. From representing India at the highest level to being part of the victorious 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup squads, every moment in this incredible journey has been nothing short of a blessing. These memories will forever remain etched in my heart."
Chawla's international career includes 3 Tests, 25 ODIs, and 7 T20Is, where he claimed 43 wickets. Although his statistics may seem modest, his impact on the game, particularly in the IPL, was substantial.
A Journey Through the IPL
Chawla's career thrived in the Indian Premier League, where he played for teams like Kings XI Punjab, Chennai Super Kings, and Kolkata Knight Riders, contributing significantly to KKR's 2014 championship win. In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude to the IPL franchises for their trust in him.
"A heartfelt thank you to the IPL franchises who placed their trust in me – Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians. The Indian Premier League has been a truly special chapter in my career, and I have cherished every moment playing in it."
He also acknowledged the influence of his coaches, the late Shri Pankaj Saraswat and Shri K.K. Gautam, and expressed deep appreciation for his family's unwavering support, especially from his late father.
Looking Ahead
Chawla has been away from competitive cricket for several years but remains active in the sport as a commentator, having participated in the commentary panel during the 2025 IPL.