The former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on December 9. He represented India in 25 Tests, 38 ODIs, and 2 T20Is. He announced his retirement on Twitter by stating -“I feel at peace having played the game in its truest tenets, with dignity and in the spirit of the game and more importantly with great camaraderie. As I walk away a proud man, having fulfilled more dreams than I thought possible, I hope to be remembered with that thought and find your support for my future endeavours”.
Sourav Ganguly And Anil Kumble Made Me Better Person On And Off The Field: Parthiv Patel
After calling it a day from cricket, Parthiv Patel stated that it was Sourav Ganguly and Anil Kumble’s leadership that made him a better person on and off the field.
“Yes, I did feel I was ready when I was handed a Test debut because I had good tours of South Africa and Sri Lanka with India A. I’d gone through a Border-Gavaskar Scholarship Programme in Australia. For me, the biggest pressure was when I was looking to make a comeback when you know you have to keep performing year after year, and you have to wait for your chances. That was the bigger challenge for me,” he added.
“The best memory for me is to have been part of India’s Test wins in Headingley [in 2002] and Adelaide [in 2003]. Contributing to our series win in Pakistan in 2004, where I took up the opening slot in Rawalpindi – all these are greats moments. Also, receiving the first Test cap from Sourav Ganguly in Nottingham was special. I still have the cap that Dada gave me – I’ve been spelt wrongly as “Partiv” there”
When asked about his retirement, the Gujarat’s keeper honestly answered admitting that it was the ‘right’ time for him to step away from the game to give more opportunities to the youngsters.
“I think the timing is right. I’ve been contemplating (it) almost for a year now. I was taking it season-by-season. I felt that this was probably the right time, having played 18 years of first-class cricket and India career. I’m satisfied and content with the career I’ve had. I’ve been part of three IPL title wins. I also feel that Gujarat cricket is in very good shape right now,” he concluded. Parthiv Patel was last seen in IPL 2020 in RCB’s squad where they reached playoffs.
