After 17 Years, Chahal Ends First‑Class Journey, Still Hopes for ODI/T20 Return

Veteran Indian leg‑spinner Yuzvendra Chahal announced his decision to stop playing first‑class cricket after a career that spanned nearly two decades. In a personal message he reflected on holding his first red ball at ten years old, describing how the experience shaped his approach to the sport and taught him the value of perseverance.

His swan song took place at London’s Lord’s Cricket Ground, a venue that holds a mythic place in every Test‑cricketer’s imagination. Though the coveted Test cap for India never arrived, Chahal said the red‑ball chapter gifted him unforgettable moments that no one can take away.

Chahal affirmed that his ambition to play for the national side in the shorter formats is still alive. He promised to work harder for a possible recall, thanking the Haryana Cricket Association and mentors Ranbir Singh Mahindra and Aniruddh Singh Chaudhary for their continued belief in his abilities.

The leg‑spinner’s first‑class record includes 49 matches and 148 wickets, all for Haryana since his debut in 2009 against Madhya Pradesh. In the limited‑overs sphere he has represented India in 72 One‑Day Internationals and 80 T20 Internationals, taking 121 and 96 wickets respectively, with his most recent international appearance occurring on 13 August 2023 against the West Indies.

Chahal will keep competing in domestic List A, T20 tournaments and the IPL, hoping his performances can earn him another chance on the global stage.