Shannon Gabriel, the West Indian fast bowler, has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a successful career that spanned over a decade. The 34-year-old cricketer made the announcement through his official Instagram handle, expressing his gratitude for the opportunities and blessings he received during his time playing for the West Indies.
Gabriel, who represented the West Indies in 59 Tests, 25 ODIs, and two T20Is, leaves behind a legacy of 202 wickets across all formats. Known for his pace and ability to trouble batsmen with his aggressive bowling, Gabriel was a key player for the West Indies during his time in the team.
In his retirement statement, Gabriel thanked God for the blessings he received and expressed his appreciation for Cricket West Indies administrators, coaches, staff members, teammates, and supporters who stood by him throughout his career. He acknowledged the hard work and support he received from the cricketing community and expressed his gratitude for making his journey to the top truly special.
Looking ahead, Gabriel revealed his plans to continue representing his country, Trinidad and Tobago, as well as club and franchise teams around the world. Despite stepping away from international cricket, Gabriel’s passion for the game remains undiminished, and he is determined to continue playing at various levels with the same love and dedication he has shown throughout his career.
Gabriel last played for the West Indies in July 2023 and has since been actively involved in domestic cricket, representing Trinidad and Tobago. His retirement marks the end of an era for West Indian cricket, as fans bid farewell to a talented and dedicated player who has left an indelible mark on the sport.
As Shannon Gabriel embarks on the next chapter of his cricketing journey, fans and fellow players alike will remember him for his contributions to the game and the passion he brought to the field. His retirement serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of a professional athlete’s career and the importance of cherishing the moments spent playing the sport they love.