"I'm not done yet": Chahal retires from first-class cricket, eyes ODI, T20 comeback for India
Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal announces retirement from first-class cricket but vows to return to India's ODI and T20 squads.
Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has officially announced his retirement from first-class cricket, marking the end of a long-standing pursuit of the red-ball format. While the veteran spinner admitted that his ultimate dream of wearing the India Test cap will not come to fruition, he sent a clear message to selectors: he is far from finished with his international career.
'I'm not done yet': Chahal retires from first-class cricket
In an emotional announcement shared via social media, Chahal reflected on a journey that began with a red ball in his hands at the age of ten. For the Haryana-born bowler, first-class cricket was more than just a format; it was a masterclass in patience, character, and resilience. His final chapter in red-ball cricket concluded at the iconic Lord’s ground, a moment he described as deeply moving.
The Unfulfilled Test Dream
Despite a prolific career in shorter formats, Chahal never received the call-up to represent India in a Test match. He expressed a sense of contentment despite this unfulfilled ambition, stating that while the Test cap was a dream he carried for years, he is grateful for the opportunities he did receive.
"The red ball gave me some of the most beautiful memories of my life, and nothing will ever take that away. But I AM NOT DONE YET. The hunger to play for my country is still very much alive," Chahal wrote.
The spinner emphasized that his focus has now shifted entirely toward reclaiming his spot in the Indian One-Day International (ODI) and T20I squads. He believes he still has the skill and the drive to contribute to the national side in these white-ball formats.
A Statistical Legacy
Chahal's departure from the first-class arena comes following a strong recent stint in English domestic cricket. Representing Northamptonshire in the 2026 County Championship, he proved his mettle by claiming 21 wickets at an impressive average of 16.14, ranking him as one of the top performers in Division Two. His final first-class appearance was against Middlesex, a match that saw Northamptonshire's promotion hopes end in a seven-wicket defeat.
Looking back at his broader first-class career, Chahal's numbers tell a story of consistency:
- Career Span: Began with Haryana in 2009.
- Matches Played: 49.
- Total Wickets: 148.
- Bowling Average: 32.27.
Eyes on the White-Ball Comeback
While he has recently fallen out of favour with national selectors, Chahal remains a powerhouse in other formats. He holds the distinction of being the all-time leading wicket-taker in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and is currently a key player for the Punjab Kings.
Having last represented India in a T20I against the West Indies in August 2023, Chahal's journey now enters a new phase. He remains active in List A and T20 cricket, fueled by the belief that he still has much to offer the Indian team on the global stage.