Yuzvendra chahal retirement

Yuzvendra Chahal Announces Retirement Amid India's World Cup 2027 Preparations

Monojit Das

Modified - Oct 02, 2026, 10:18 AM

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India leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has announced his retirement from first-class cricket. Chahal, who was once a key bowler for Team India in white-ball formats, won't play domestic red-ball cricket now.

Chahal announced this decision through his Instagram account, where he thanked his childhood coaches who helped him learn about red ball cricket. In an emotional note, he mentioned about his future ambitions despite retiring from the longest format of the game.

Yuzvendra Chahal Test Retirement Confirmed

Yuzvendra Chahal retirement from first class cricket means that his dream to play Tests is over. The 36-year-old has an excellent record in first-class cricket but didn't get a chance to play Tests for India.

Chahal played 49 first-class matches in his career in which he picked up 148 wickets at an average of 32.27. He represented Haryana in the Ranji Trophy but at the same time, he has also played County cricket for Kent and Northamptonshire.

Chahal made his first-class debut back in 2009 for Haryana. However, it was the white-ball cricket where he excelled and established himself amongst the best bowlers in India. Despite his white-ball success, he spoke about the importance of red-ball cricket in shaping up his career.

“The first cricket ball I ever held was a red ball. I was 10 years old, and I had no idea then how deeply I would fall in love with this game. For me, red-ball cricket was never just another format. It was where I learned the meaning of patience, character, resilience and the pure joy of being out there for hours, fighting for every run and every wicket," Chahal wrote on Instagram.

“I played my last First-Class match at Lord’s. Saying these words is emotional, as a Test cap was always a dream, one that I carried with me for many years. It may not have happened, but I am genuinely content with the journey I have had and incredibly grateful for every opportunity that came my way in this format. The red ball gave me some of the most beautiful memories of my life, and nothing will ever take that away,” he added.

Will Yuzvendra Chahal Play World Cup 2027?

Despite Yuzvendra Chahal first class retirement, he still aims to play international white-ball cricket for India. With the World Cup approaching, he is still looking to push his case to be a part of India's plans.

“But I am not done yet. The hunger to play for my country is still very much alive. I believe I have the cricket left in me, and I will give everything I have to earn another opportunity in the One-Day and T20 formats.

Once known as one of the best T20 bowlers, Yuzvendra Chahal's rise was nothing short of inspirational. He played a key part in India's white-ball success during the 2015-2020 era. His ability to pick up wickets and bowl in difficult conditions makes him a go-to bowler for every captain.