West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has announced his retirement from international cricket, concluding a 12-year career during which he played 86 matches for his country.
“Over the past 12 years, I have devoted myself to representing the West Indies in international cricket,” the 36-year-old shared on his Instagram page.
“Playing this beloved game at the highest level has brought me immense joy, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end.”
Of Gabriel’s 86 appearances for the West Indies, 59 came in the Test format, where he truly excelled.
He made his Test debut at Lord’s in 2012 and quickly became a key component of the West Indian pace attack, claiming 166 wickets at an average of 32.21.
His achievements include six five-wicket hauls and the fourth-best match figures by a West Indian—13 for 121—against Sri Lanka in June 2018.
His final Test appearance was against India in Port of Spain last year.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to God for the many blessings and opportunities that my family and I have received throughout my time playing for the West Indies,” Gabriel wrote.
“I also want to extend my sincere thanks to Cricket West Indies administrators, coaches, and staff members.
Your hard work and support over the years have meant more to me than words can express.
Lastly, I am immensely grateful to my teammates and everyone who has stood by me during my journey.
You have made my path to the top truly special.”
Looking ahead, Gabriel plans to continue playing cricket for Trinidad and Tobago, as well as for his club and various franchise teams around the world, with the same passion and dedication he has shown throughout his career.
Despite his many highs as a powerful and imposing fast bowler, Gabriel also faced some challenges.
He was notably dismissed by Yasir Shah while attempting a slog sweep with just seven balls remaining to save the Dominica Test against Pakistan in 2017.
Additionally, Gabriel was handed a four-match ODI ban in 2019 for using a homophobic slur during an on-field exchange with Joe Root in St Lucia.
Leave a Reply