Srikar Bharat announces international retirement, brings curtain down at 32
Srikar Bharat (Source: Instagram/@konasbharat)
Published - 04 Jun 2026, 07:02 PM• Read time - 2 mins
India wicketkeeper batter Srikar Bharat announced his retirement from international cricket on Thursday, June 4. Bharat last played for India during the second Test against England in February 2024. He represented the country in seven Test matches, scoring 221 runs at an average of 20.09.
He registered his highest score in Tests, scoring 44 (88) against Australia in March 2023 in Ahmedabad. With the gloves, he inflicted 19 dismissals in his career, including 18 catches and one stumping, after making his debut against Australia in February 2023 in Nagpur.
Bharat announced his retirement through a post on his Instagram account, thanking his fans, family and coaches for their support.
“With a proud heart and sense of gratitude, I announce my retirement from international Cricket. To play for my country has been the greatest honour of my life. This journey of mine has demanded great resilience and strength but the Honour to represent India in Tests worth every moment,” wrote Bharat in a post on his Instagram account.
He also extended his gratitude to Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid for their support throughout his cricketing career.
“A big thank you to my IPL debut captain Virat Kohli for giving me an opportunity to showcase my skills and come into recognition. A big thank you to my Indian captain Rohit Sharma, under whom I made my Test debut, which is priceless and beyond words. To my Indian coach Rahul Dravid sir, your guidance from India A to the Indian team is unforgettable. With your support, I could become an Indian Test cricketer,” he added.
Bharat was phased out from the Indian squad following Dhruv Jurel’s debut against England in 2024. He played eight matches for Andhra in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, scoring 416 runs at an average of 37.81 with one hundred and two fifties to his name. Following his international retirement, he will continue to ply his trade in domestic cricket.
