Barinder Sran, a left-arm fast bowler who represented India in six Twenty20 Internationals and six One-Day Internationals in 2016, has declared his retirement from all sports. He took 13 wickets in all while playing for India in the two white-ball formats.
“As I officially hang up my cricket boots, I look back at my journey with a heart full of gratitude. Since switching from boxing in 2009, cricket has gifted me innumerable and incredible experiences. Fast bowling soon became my lucky charm and opened doors to represent prestigious IPL franchises, ultimately culminating in the highest honour of representing India in 2016.”
“Even though my international career was brief, the memories created will be forever cherished. I am eternally grateful to the almighty for getting me the right coaches and management, who have supported me throughout my journey.”
“As I embark on this new chapter, I carry immense gratitude for the opportunities that cricket has afforded me. Lastly, as the saying goes, “Just like the sky, dreams have no limits”, so keep dreaming,” wrote Sran on his Instagram account.
Sran participated in the Indian Premier League for the Punjab Kings, Rajasthan Royals, Mumbai Indians (where he eventually joined the victorious squad for the 2019 season), and Sunrisers Hyderabad. In 24 games, he took 18 wickets at an economy rate of 9.40. He started off as a boxer at the Bhiwani Boxing Club, home of Vijender Singh, the 2008 Beijing Olympics bronze champion.
However, quick bowling and cricket were introduced to young people through a Punjab Kings commercial inviting them to trial. Later, he became victorious in the Gatorade Speedster competition’s India Under-19 leg, earning him a trip to Dubai to train at the ICC academy.
From then, he advanced through the ranks and overcame injuries to play for Punjab in the provincial league, then Chandigarh in the Indian Premier League, and finally, India.