Cricketers who retired in 2024: As 2024 comes to an end, preparations for the new year are in full swing. This year brought a mix of joy and sadness for many, and cricket was no different. India celebrated a memorable T20 World Cup win, but the year also marked the emotional farewell of several iconic players.
While some cricketers retired from all formats of the game, others stepped away from specific formats. Here's a look back at the legendary players who decided to say goodbye to cricket in 2024.
Ravichandran Ashwin: Widely regarded as one of India's greatest off-spinners, R Ashwin stunned fans with his unexpected announcement of retirement from international cricket during the ongoing IND vs AUS Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Joined by captain Rohit Sharma, Ashwin disclosed his decision in a press conference after the third Test at Gabba ended in a draw. He retires as India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, with record 537 wickets in 106 matches. Though stepping away from international cricket, Ashwin will continue his T20 career and is set to represent Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja all announced their retirement from T20Is following India's historic victory in T20 World Cup 2024 in West Indies. The legendary trio continue to represent the country in ODIs and Tests.
Mohammad Aamir, previously embroiled in fixing allegations, announced his second retirement this year. After returning to play for the national team in T20 World Cup 2024, Aamir stepped away from cricket once again just days ago.
Similarly, Pakistan's all-rounder Imad Wasim, who also made a brief comeback for the T20 World Cup, followed suit by retiring shortly after the tournament.
India's left-arm pacer Mohammad Irfan, renowned for his memorable spells during India's 2012 tour, officially retired from international cricket. He has established himself one of the most loved commentators.
England's legendary fast bowler James Anderson retired this year, concluding a stellar two-decade career. He leaves as England's all-time leading wicket-taker and the third-highest in Test cricket history, with over 700 wickets to his name.
Australian batting icon David Warner also ended his international career in 2024, fulfilling his promise to make the T20 World Cup 2024 his last outing.
England all-rounder Moeen Ali joined the list of retirements this year, announcing his decision in September. While Moeen continues to participate in league cricket, he went unsold in IPL 2025 mega auction.
Former India wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik also bid farewell to cricket this year. Prior to IPL 2024, Karthik had announced that the season would be his last, and he would retire from all formats afterward. Following his retirement, he joined the coaching staff of Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha announced his retirement this year after a long hiatus. Dropped from the team during the 2022 New Zealand series, Saha had been playing domestic cricket but confirmed that this would be his final year in the game.
Shikhar Dhawan also called time on his career in August 2024. After a long period away from the national team and struggling to make a comeback, Dhawan decided to retire from all formats of cricket.