Imrul Kayes announces his retirement

Bangladesh’s former opening batsman Imrul Kayes has decided to retire from both Test cricket and first-class cricket, marking the end of an important chapter in his long career. 

In an emotional video message posted on his social media on Wednesday afternoon, the 37-year-old made the announcement, thanking fans for their support over the years.

The video, which lasts for just over a minute, was shared with the caption: “Goodbye Test cricket. Grateful for the love.”

Imrul made his debut for Bangladesh in One Day Internationals (ODIs) back in 2008. He soon became a regular in the national Test team and went on to represent Bangladesh for over a decade. 

His last Test appearance was in 2019 against India in Kolkata, and this also marked his final game for Bangladesh in any international format.

Throughout his career, Imrul played 39 Test matches, scoring 1,797 runs at an average of 24.28. One of his standout performances came against Pakistan in Khulna, where he scored 150 runs in a match that saw him and his opening partner Tamim Iqbal put on a memorable partnership. 

Imrul will now officially retire from first-class cricket after playing one final match for Khulna Division, starting on November 16.

In first-class cricket, Imrul has had an impressive career, playing 137 matches and accumulating 7,930 runs at an average of 34.00, including 20 centuries and 27 half-centuries.

In his video message, Imrul shared the emotional weight of his decision: 

“I am going to announce the end of my Test cricket career on November 16. I’m also going to end my first-class cricket career. It is one of the most difficult and emotional moments in my 17-year career.”