Kedar Jadhav, the cricketer from India and Maharashtra, made a significant announcement on Monday. He declared his retirement from international cricket, ending a remarkable journey that lasted nearly a decade. This decision caught the attention of cricket fans worldwide, bringing an end to his memorable career.
A decade of dedication
Jadhav, aged 39, made his debut for the Indian cricket team in November 2014, stepping onto the international stage during an ODI clash against Sri Lanka in Ranchi. Since then, he has been a consistent presence in the national team, showcasing his talent and dedication in 73 one-day matches and nine T20 Internationals.
Perceived to be close to former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Jadhav adopted the iconic wicketkeeper-batter’s style to announce his retirement, employing a similar play on words.
“Thank you all For your love and support throughout my Career from 1500 hrs. Consider me as retired from all forms of cricket,” (sic) wrote Jadhav on X.
Interestingly, Jadhav is currently leading Kolhapur Tuskers in the Maharashtra Premier League, which commenced in Pune on Sunday. His retirement announcement does not specify whether it includes this ongoing commitment.
ODI and T20I career highlights
In 73 ODIs for India, Jadhav accumulated 1,389 runs at an average of 42.09, including two centuries and six half-centuries. Additionally, he scored 122 runs across six innings in the nine T20 Internationals he participated in.
Arguably, Jadhav’s standout performance occurred during the Pune ODI against England in January 2017, where he achieved his second ODI century. He hammered a fierce 76-ball 120, comprising 12 fours and four sixes, propelling India to a thrilling three-wicket victory in a high-scoring encounter.
Jadhav joined forces with Virat Kohli (122) to construct a remarkable partnership of 200 runs from just 147 balls for the fifth wicket. This collaboration was pivotal as India, initially struggling at 63/4, successfully chased down the target of 351.
Having honed his off-spin skills, Jadhav also proved to be a formidable bowling option with his unique slingy action, which earned him 27 ODI wickets.
In the Indian Premier League, the right-handed batter showcased his talents for various teams including Chennai Super Kings, (formerly) Delhi Daredevils, the now-defunct Kochi Tuskers Kerala, (formerly) Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Sunrisers Hyderabad.