Wicketkeeper-platter KS Bharat departs at 32 after falling on a stumping instruction

India wicketkeeper-batsman Kona Srikar Bharat announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday, June 4, closing the curtains on a short Test career with the intention of pursuing opportunities in overseas T20 leagues.

The 32-year-old Andhra cricketer, who played seven Tests for India between 2023 and 2024, joins a growing list of domestic Indian cricketers – including Tamil Nadu all-rounder Vijay Shankar – who have recently left the domestic set-up to ply their trade around the world. According to Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations, active players are prohibited from participating in foreign franchise leagues unless they officially sever ties with Indian cricket.

Bharat has long been regarded as one of the most technically gifted glovemen in the country, amassing more than 6,000 runs for Andhra in domestic cricket, where he appeared as recently as the Ranji Trophy earlier this year. His international breakthrough came after Rishabh Pant’s serious car accident when he made his Test debut against Australia in February 2023.

However, a slim patch with the bat ultimately curtailed his international stint. In his seven appearances, Bharat scored 221 runs at an average of 20.09, with a top score of 44. The subsequent emergence of younger options like Dhruv Jurel and the return of Pant meant that Bharat dropped down the pecking order.

EDUCATION OF GRATITUDE

Bharat confirmed his retirement in an emotional statement and expressed immense pride in fulfilling his lifelong ambition of donning a Test cap.

“It is with a proud heart and a sense of gratitude that I announce my retirement from international cricket,” said Bharat.

“Playing for my country has been the greatest honor of my life. This journey of mine has required a lot of resilience and strength, but the honor of representing India in Tests is worth every moment.”

Bharat paid tribute to his family before singling out his debut Indian Premier League (IPL) captain Virat Kohli, national captain Rohit Sharma and former head coach Rahul Dravid for their roles in his rise.

“A big thanks to my first IPL captain Virat Kohli for giving me the opportunity to showcase my skills and get recognition,” Bharat said.

“A big thanks to my India captain Rohit Sharma under whom I made my Test debut which is priceless and beyond words. To my India coach Mr. Rahul Dravid, his guidance from India A to the Indian team is unforgettable. With your support I could become an Indian Test cricketer.” KS Bharat thanked Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid in his farewell message (Courtesy: Instagram)

Looking ahead to his future on the global T20 circuit and beyond, he said: “My journey with the BCCI and Test cricket may be over, but my journey in the game continues. I will continue to play, contribute and give back to cricket by guiding, mentoring and coaching the next generation who dream of making it big. I love India and I love cricket.”

– The end

Issued by:

Akshay Ramesh

Published on:

04 Jun 2026 21:29 IST