India express quick Varun Aaron has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Aaron took to social media to share the news.
When Aaron burst onto the scene, his ability to bowl constantly at 150kmph took the Indian cricketing circuit by storm. He made his international debut in 2011 and went on to represent India in nine Tests and as many ODIs, claiming a total of 19 wickets. His final appearance for the country came in 2015, in a Test match against South Africa.
On Friday (January 10), Aaron called time on his cricketing career with an emotional post on Instagram.
"For the past 20 years, I have lived, breathed, and thrived on the rush of bowling fast. Today, with immense gratitude, I officially announce my retirement from representative cricket," Aaron wrote.
"In his post, Aaron thanked the BCCI and his state team – Jharkhand State Cricket Association. He also expressed his gratitude to the physios, trainers and coaches at the National Cricket Academy."
Aaron also expressed his gratitude to his family, friends, coaches, teammates, and others for playing a part in his cricketing career.
"As I bid farewell to a pursuit that has consumed me completely, I now look forward to savouring the smaller joys in life while staying deeply connected to the game that has given me everything. Fast bowling has been my first love, and though I step off the field, it will always be a part of who I am."
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Aaron’s affinity for bowling fast remained constant despite suffering several injury setbacks, including stress fractures on his knees and back. With 173 wickets at an average of 33.27, Aaron previously bade adieu to his nearly 15-year-long first-class career after a Ranji Trophy match between Jharkhand and Rajasthan last year.
Aaron has represented six different IPL franchises between 2011 and 2022, finishing with 44 IPL wickets in 52 matches. His final stint was with the Gujarat Titans during their title run in 2022.
Having announced his first-class retirement last year, Aaron has teamed up with Glenn McGrath in a coaching role at the MRF Pace Foundation, which also shaped his formative years.
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