There is no point in playing anymore: Indian cricketer Karn Sharma announces retirement

Former India leg-spinner Karn Sharma has retired from all forms of cricket at the age of 38, bringing the curtain down on a career spanning more than two decades.

Sharma represented India in one Test, two ODIs and one T20I, with his final international appearance coming in November 2014.

“I think my station has arrived. I am already 38 and I feel there is no point in playing anymore. The more I play, I will occupy the place of a young player in the team. There is no point in staying in the game when you know that an India call will never come,” Sharma told The Indian Express.

He said he discussed the decision with his family and close friends, who agreed that it was the right time to call it a day.

Sharma made his only Test appearance against Australia in Adelaide in 2014.

Despite his limited international career, Sharma leaves the game with an impressive domestic and T20 record.

He played 97 First-Class matches, claiming 270 wickets, while representing Uttar Pradesh, Railways, Vidarbha and Andhra. He also featured in more than 90 IPL matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Chennai Super Kings, winning four IPL titles.

“God gave me everything which I never dreamt of. When I began to play cricket, my dream was always to play for India and play all three formats for the Indian team. There are very few players who play all three formats,” Sharma said.

“I did all the hard work, gave all I had. Somewhere in destiny it was written that I will play these games and I am happy. I want to thank everyone — my family, friends, coaches, trainers, various Ranji and IPL sides. Physios, trainers and groundsmen all played a part in my career.”

Special place

For Sharma, receiving his India Test cap remains one of the defining moments of his career.

“Getting a Test cap remains a special place in my heart. It was the best day for sure. Playing for India and the learning I got will hold a special place for sure. Every time I played, I gave it all I had. I always tried to learn and improve. The time has come for me to say goodbye and sign off cap number 283,” he said.

Sharma does not have any immediate plans for life after retirement but hopes to remain involved with cricket and contribute to the sport in some way.

“I don’t know, it will be hard to say at the moment, but I want to give back to the game. If someone needs my help, I will be there. I will be going into my second innings of my life post-retirement. We will see what opportunities come my way,” he said.