Uttar Pradesh pacer Ankit Rajpoot has announced a surprise retirement from Indian cricket at the age of 31, bringing an end to a career spanning over a decade.

Rajpoot, known for his height, pace, and occasional brilliance with the ball, leaves behind a legacy of impressive domestic records and notable moments in the IPL. We take a look at his career below:

Early Beginnings and Domestic Career

Born on December 4, 1993, in Kanpur, Ankit Rajpoot made his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh against Karnataka in the 2012-13 Ranji Trophy. Over 80 matches in his first-class career, Rajpoot bagged an impressive 248 wickets, including nine five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket match haul. His best bowling figures, 6/25, reflect his ability to deliver game-changing performances. Rajpoot's consistent economy rate of 3.03 in first-class cricket highlights his control, making him a valuable asset in the longer format.

In List A cricket, Rajpoot played 50 matches, taking 71 wickets at an average of 26.94, with best figures of 5/33. His T20 record is also commendable, with 105 wickets in 87 matches at a strike rate of 16.6 and best figures of 5/14. However, his recent performances saw a dip, with the 2024 Ranji season yielding no wickets in the two games he played.

IPL Career: Moments of Brilliance

Ankit Rajpoot's IPL journey began in 2013 when he was picked by the Chennai Super Kings. Over the years, he represented several franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, and Lucknow Super Giants. Despite being uncapped at the international level, Rajpoot carved out a niche for himself in the IPL, showcasing his potential during the 2018 season for Punjab Kings.

In the 2018 IPL, he claimed his only five-wicket haul (5/14 against Sunrisers Hyderabad), which remains one of the best bowling performances in IPL history. Across 29 IPL matches, Rajpoot took 24 wickets at an average of 33.92 and an economy rate of 9.23. However, inconsistent performances and limited opportunities saw him fade from the IPL scene after the 2020 season.

Career Statistics

First-Class (FC)

• Matches: 80
• Wickets: 248
• Best Bowling: 6/25
• Economy: 3.03
• Five-wicket hauls: 9

List A

• Matches: 50
• Wickets: 71
• Best Bowling: 5/33
• Economy: 4.64

T20s

• Matches: 87
• Wickets: 105
• Best Bowling: 5/14
• Economy: 7.75

IPL

• Matches: 29
• Wickets: 24
• Best Bowling: 5/14
• Economy: 9.23

IPL teams and salary

Retirement and Future Plans

Announcing his retirement, Rajpoot expressed gratitude to the BCCI, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association, and various IPL franchises for shaping his cricketing journey. Reflecting on his career, he said: "Today, with immense gratitude & humility, I announce my retirement from Indian cricket. My journey from 2009-2024 has been the most wonderful period of my life. I am excited to explore new opportunities in cricket and the business side of it, where I will continue to challenge myself in a new environment."

Rajpoot's retirement marks the end of an era for a player who, despite limited international exposure, left a mark in domestic and IPL cricket. As he transitions to new ventures in the cricketing world, fans will remember him for his contributions and his potential to change games with the ball.

The Road Ahead

While Ankit Rajpoot's playing days may be over, his announcement hints at a future still tied to the sport. Whether in coaching, management, or other roles within cricket, Rajpoot's experience and insights are likely to benefit the game. As he steps into this new phase, the cricketing fraternity wishes him success in his endeavours.