Wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday, bringing an end to a journey that saw him represent India in seven Test matches. The 32-year-old shared the news through a heartfelt post on Instagram, reflecting on his time in national colours and expressing gratitude to everyone who supported him along the way. Bharat made his mark as a reliable wicketkeeper and was part of India’s squad for the 2023 World Test Championship final. However, despite earning opportunities at the highest level, he was unable to cement a permanent place in the Test side. His last appearance for India came against England in Visakhapatnam in February 2024, after which he slipped down the pecking order as the team explored other options behind the stumps.
While Bharat’s glovework often drew praise from teammates and experts alike, questions over his batting returns persisted throughout his international stint. In seven Tests, he scored 221 runs at an average of 20.09 and did not register a half-century. Behind the stumps, he claimed 18 catches and effected one stumping, finishing his international career with a reputation as a dependable wicketkeeper.
“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 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,” Bharat wrote in his retirement post on Instagram.
Also Read – Ruturaj Gaikwad primed to replace Virat Kohli in Afghanistan ODIs, Rajat Patidar could benefit from domino effect
He has enjoyed a prolific domestic career, featuring in 116 first-class matches and scoring 6,102 runs, including a triple century, with a career-best score of 308. While Bharat announced his retirement from international cricket, he made no mention of stepping away from domestic cricket. In his farewell post, he also expressed gratitude to the Andhra Cricket Association and the Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association (VDCA) for their support throughout his journey.
“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. Thank you Andhra Cricket Association, VDCA and all office bearers for your support and encouragement from my childhood. I owe massive gratitude and respects to all the Groundsmen who have worked very, very hard to ensure the best pitches and ground conditions were given to me at all times. To all my teammates I extend a big thank you for all the moments and achievements together, which helped me in my career and without you all it was not quite possible for me to achieve my dream and play the sport all these years,” he added.
Bharat thanks Kohli, Rohit and Dravid
Meanwhile, Bharat also expressed his gratitude to Virat Kohli, under whose leadership he made his IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He also thanked Rohit Sharma, who captained India during his Test debut, and former head coach Rahul Dravid for their guidance and support throughout his international journey.
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. With your support I could become an Indian Test cricketer.