India's World T20 hero RP Singh announces retirement from all forms of cricket

RP Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket exactly 13 years (September 4, 2005) after making his international debut in an ODI at Harare in Zimbabwe.

RP Singh announced his retirement from all forms of cricket exactly 13 years (September 4, 2005) after making his international debut in an ODI at Harare in Zimbabwe.

"13 years ago today, on 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 wrote on his Twitter account.

Known for his ability to bring the ball back into the right-hander at a sharp pace, RP was one of the main architects of India’s triumph in the maiden World T20 in 2007, emerging as the joint second highest wicket-taker with his 12 wickets in seven matches at a miserly economy rate of 6.33.

"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," he said.

His international career spanned six years and the pacer played 82 matches across all three formats and picked up over 100 wickets. 

Rp continued to lead India’s pace attack along with Zaheer Khan after the World T20. He played a major role in India's Test win over Australia at Perth in that year.

The left-arm seamer continued his form even in the IPL, leading Deccan Charges to their maiden title in 2009, emerging as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament.

RP was dropped after the home series against South Africa in 2008 and never played Test cricket till he earned a surprise recall in the middle of India’s England tour in 2011. He was included in the playing XI in The Oval, which turned out to be his last Test match for India. He did impress in the following ODI series but was dropped after the England tour.  

In first-class cricket, RP Singh took 301 wickets in 94 matches at an average of 30.57, of which 209 came in the Ranji Trophy.

"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 criticizing me and for hailing me but mainly for just being there for me. Thank you!" RP signed off.