Leg spinner Piyush Chawla has officially announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. The seasoned cricketer, who last played for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2024, shared an emotional post marking the end of his two-decade-long journey on the field. Despite registering for the IPL 2025 auction, he went unsold.
Chawla Bids Farewell with Heartfelt Note
Reflecting on his career, Chawla wrote, "Bringing this chapter to a close! I’m retiring from all formats of the game. Thank you all for the unwavering support throughout this beautiful journey."
In his retirement note, Chawla reminisced, "After spending over two decades on the field, it's time to bid farewell to this beautiful game. From representing India on the international stage to being part of the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning teams, every moment has been nothing short of a blessing. These memories will stay in my heart forever."
A Thank You to Teams and Mentors
Chawla extended his gratitude to all the IPL teams he represented—Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, and Mumbai Indians—saying,
"The Indian Premier League has been a special chapter in my career, and I cherished every moment of it."
He also thanked the BCCI, Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA), Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA), and his coaches. Paying a special tribute to his late father, he wrote,
"A heartfelt mention of my late father, whose faith gave me strength. This journey wouldn’t have been possible without him."
Chawla concluded,
"Today is an emotional day as I officially retire from all formats of cricket. Though I may step away from the crease, cricket will forever live in me. I now look forward to beginning a new chapter, carrying the spirit and lessons of this beautiful game with me."
IPL 2025 Auction: Unsold Despite Experience
Chawla had listed himself for the IPL 2025 auction with a base price of ₹50 lakh but remained unsold. He had been an IPL regular since the inaugural season, making his debut with Punjab Kings and later playing for KKR, CSK, and MI. Over 192 IPL matches, he claimed 192 wickets.
A Brief International Career
Chawla made his international debut in 2006 with a Test match against England in Mohali. He later debuted in ODIs in 2007 and T20Is in 2010. In total, he played 3 Tests (7 wickets), 25 ODIs (32 wickets), and 7 T20Is (4 wickets) during his six-year international stint.