Uttar Pradesh fast bowler Ankit Rajpoot has officially announced his retirement from Indian cricket. With a career spanning over a decade, Rajpoot expressed gratitude for his journey while also hinting at exploring new opportunities in the cricket and business world.
Ankit Rajpoot’s Domestic Cricket Legacy
Rajpoot, who most recently played for Uttar Pradesh in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, made his mark in domestic cricket. Debuting in the 2012-13 Ranji Trophy season, he played 80 first-class matches, claiming 248 wickets at an average of 29.25. His performance in List A cricket was also commendable, taking 71 wickets in 50 matches with an average of 26.94. In T20 cricket, Rajpoot proved to be a consistent performer, picking up 105 wickets in 87 matches at an economy rate of 7.75 and an average of 21.55.
IPL Journey Across Multiple Franchises
Ankit Rajpoot’s IPL career saw him representing several franchises, including Chennai Super Kings (2013), Kolkata Knight Riders (2016-17), Kings XI Punjab (2018-19), and Rajasthan Royals (2020). Across 29 IPL matches, he took 24 wickets at an average of 33.91 and an economy rate of 9.23. Although he was part of the Lucknow Super Giants squad in 2022, he did not get a chance to play.
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Heartfelt Retirement Message
Announcing his retirement on social media, Rajpoot wrote,
“Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from Indian Cricket. My journey from 2009-2024 has been the most wonderful period of my life. I am grateful for the opportunities given to me by the Board of Control for India, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, Kanpur Cricket Association, IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Kings XI, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants.”
He also thanked his coaches, teammates, support staff, and fans, stating,
“To all my team-mates, coaches, especially thanks to physio Dr. Saif Naqvi, my coach Shashi Sir and support staff; it has been an absolute privilege to play with you all. I thank you for helping turn my dream into reality. To my fans who supported me through ups and downs, your love has always been my motivation.”
Expressing excitement for his next chapter, Rajpoot shared,
“I am excited to announce that I will be exploring new opportunities in the world of cricket & the business side of it. I will continue to participate in the sport I love and challenge myself in a new and different environment. This is the next step in my journey as a cricketer, and I look forward to this new chapter in my life.”
A Promising Future Ahead
Rajpoot’s decision marks the end of an era in his playing career but sets the stage for an exciting new journey. With his vast experience and love for the sport, Rajpoot aims to contribute to cricket in innovative ways off the field.