Yuzvendra Chahal announces first-class retirement but hunger to play for India 'very much alive'
Yuzvendra Chahal (Source: Getty Images)
Published - 02 Oct 2026, 12:50 PM• Read time - 2 mins
Yuzvendra Chahal has announced his retirement from first-class cricket but has doubled down on his desire to represent the country. Chahal played his last first-class game for Northamptonshire against Middlesex in the County Championship Division Two at Lord's. Chahal bagged figures of 2/23 and 0/34 as Northants lost the game by seven wickets.
In 49 first-class games, Chahal claimed 148 wickets at an average of 32.27, including six five-wicket hauls.
"The first cricket ball I ever held was a red ball. I was 10 years old, and I had no idea then how deeply I would fall in love with this game," Chahal posted on Instagram.
"For me, red-ball cricket was never just another format. It was where I learned the meaning of patience, character, resilience and the pure joy of being out there for hours, fighting for every run and every wicket.
"I played my last First-Class match at Lord's, saying these words is emotional as a Test cap was always a dream, one that I carried with me for many years. It may not have happened, but I am genuinely content with the journey I have had and incredibly grateful for every opportunity that came my way in this format.
"The red ball gave me some of the most beautiful memories of my life, and nothing will ever take that away.
"But I AM NOT DONE YET.
Chahal is still hungry to represent India in white-ball cricket and wants to return to the dressing room.
"The hunger to play for my country is still very much alive. I believe I have the cricket left in me, and I will give everything I have to earn another opportunity in the One-Day and T20 formats.
"A special thank you to the Haryana Cricket Association, Mr. Ranbir Singh Mahindra Sir and Mr. Anirudh Singh Chaudhary Sir for their continuous support, trust and belief throughout my journey.
"From a 10-year-old holding his first red ball to playing his final First-Class game, it has been one hell of a journey."
Chahal's last T20I appearance came against West Indies in August 2023 in Lauderhill, whereas his last one-dayer was against New Zealand in Indore in January that year. Chahal has carved a stellar career in the IPL and remains a part of Punjab Kings (PBKS). He is the leading wicket-taker in the marquee tournament with 233 scalps.