 "Can a player announce his retirement while playing a cricket match? Read here what are its rules")
Two of the legends of Indian cricket, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, are now at a point in their careers where every brilliant innings instills fear among fans that it could be their last. Even before the third ODI against Australia, there was talk that both might announce retirement, but what happened on the field left everyone speechless. Rohit Sharma, in his old fashion, batted with a bang at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) and steered India to victory.
His rhythm, his confidence and every four and six proved that “Hitman” still remains a hit. Virat Kohli reminded us of his captaincy days and showed grit and class. Now, the question regarding retirement is: Can a player announce his retirement while playing a match? What are the rules for players in this regard?
Can players retire at any time?
Imagine a batsman, in his last over, suddenly taking off his helmet, looking at the team and saying, “That’s it, no more.” It may sound like something out of a movie, but it has happened in the world of sports and may happen again. In fact, no law or regulation prevents a player from announcing his retirement in the middle of a match or series.
Who has to give their retirement information?
In cricket, football, or other professional sports, retirement is an entirely personal decision. No board or coach decides when to stop, but certain formalities have to be completed. For example, in India, a player must notify BCCI or his respective state cricket board before retirement. Similarly, at the international level, a player informs the ICC or his country’s sports federation.
Why retire in the middle of the match?
Sometimes players take this step suddenly due to emotional or personal reasons. They may be mentally exhausted, suffering from constant injuries or fear losing their place in the team. Some players in cricket have surprised fans by saying goodbye during their last match.
However, players usually announce their retirement only after the match or series is over. This is to give the team, the fans and the board a chance to prepare, there is no law that says a player cannot take this step in the middle of a game.
What is the retirement process?
A player first informs his team management and coach, then sends an official letter or email to the relevant board. After this, they can address the media if they wish. There is no set time limit; Some players may announce their retirement date after a match, saying, “That was my last match,” while others may announce their retirement date months in advance.