'13 years ago today, 4th September 2005 was the first time I donned the Indian jersey. It was the stepping-stone to what would become the most cherished moments of my life,' RP Singh said
Bengaluru: On the 13th anniversary of his international debut, former India left-arm fast bowler RP Singh announced his retirement from all forms of the game.
RP Singh, who played 14 Tests, 58 ODIs and 10 T20Is, took to Twitter to announce his decision on Tuesday evening.
The Uttar Pradesh bowler made his international debut on September 4, 2005, in a 50-over game against Zimbabwe in Harare. He took 124 international wickets across three formats. In 94 first-class matches, he bagged 301 wickets.
“13 years ago today, 4th September 2005 was the first time I donned the Indian jersey. It was the stepping-stone to what would become the most cherished moments of my life. Today, as I hang my boots and call it a day I wish to remember and give thanks to each and everyone who made this journey possible,” the 32-year-old wrote in a statement on Twitter.
My first Indian shirt signed by all my teammates back then. My cricketing journey has been nothing short of a dream. I'd like to thank everyone who supported me in my journey. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/EpkWoYSmVR
— R P Singh (@rpsingh)He had not played for India since September 2011. However, he continued to ply his trade for his State side Uttar Pradesh and later for Gujarat where he was part of the Ranji Trophy winning team in 2016-2017. He also played the Indian Premier League (IPL).
RP Singh was also in the Indian team that won the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in South Africa under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He was part of the Rahul Dravid-led Indian squad that won a Test series in England in 2007.
“Even as I write this, there are conflicting emotions inside me. No matter how much one prepares for this day, there is no easy way to bid goodbye. But somewhere inside there is that voice that tells you – it’s time,” he added.
He said he had lived his dream. “For someone born in a small village, I never thought I would be able to say this – I have lived my dream. And for that I have nobody else to thank but you. My fans. For believing in me, for criticising me and for hailing me but mainly for just being there for me. Thank You!,” he said.
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