Left-arm Indian pacer Barinder Sran announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket at 31, bringing an end to the career that saw him rise from obscurity into an international representing India. Born in Punjab, the start of Sran’s cricket journey had rather been unconventional ways-by responding to an advertisement put out by Kings XI Punjab, calling for young talent.
Though an IPL contract didn’t come straight away, he again started to play tennis ball cricket in his village and soon became one of the best-uncapped cricketers in Punjab. His perseverance resulted in him being picked up by Rajasthan Royals in the 2015 IPL auction, which opened a window toward professional cricket.
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Reflecting on his career, Sran shared his thoughts on Instagram: “As I officially hang up my cricket boots, I look back at my journey with a heart full of gratitude. Cricket has gifted me innumerable and incredible experiences. Fast bowling soon became my lucky charm and opened the way to represent prestigious IPL franchises and culminate into the ultimate honour to represent India in 2016.”
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Sran’s international debut came in 2016 under the captaincy of MS Dhoni during an ODI in Perth. At that time, Sran had played only eight List-A matches, but was already drawing attention because of his bowling talent. Throughout his short international career, he has represented India in six ODIs and two T20Is. His most memorable performance came during the T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare when he took 4 wickets, giving away just 10 runs, which were truly match-winning and fetched him the Player of the Match award.
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Though the international stint was not long, Sran says he remains proud of what he has achieved. “Even though my international career was brief, the memories created will be forever cherished. I am eternally grateful to the almighty for getting me the right coaches and management, who have supported me throughout my journey,” he said in his farewell message.
As Sran walks away from the game, his story remains an epitome of the fancies of sport, how talent, toil, and a smidgeon of luck can take one from a village cricket field to representing one’s country on the world stage.
