Cricket Legends Who Retired in 2024 : The cricketing world in 2024 witnessed an emotional farewell to some of its greatest stalwarts, with legends hanging up their boots across all formats. From record breaking bowlers to charismatic batters, this year will be remembered as a turning point, as fans bid adieu to their cricketing heroes.
Table of Contents
Cricket Legends Who Retired in 2024 : Farewell to Legends: David Warner to R. Ashwin , Cricket’s Iconic Retirements in 2024
Ravichandran Ashwin: A Maestro Bows Out
On December 18, Ravichandran Ashwin stunned the cricketing fraternity with his decision to retire from all formats. Known for his unparalleled skill and cricketing acumen, Ashwin’s departure after the Border Gavaskar Trophy left fans reminiscing about his glorious career. The off spinner ended his journey with over 700 wickets across formats and countless match winning performances. His sharp mind and guile will be sorely missed.
David Warner: Australia’s Pocket-Sized Dynamo
David Warner, one of Australia’s greatest openers, called time on his illustrious career in early 2024. Warner’s final Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) against Pakistan marked the end of an era for Australian cricket. Known for his aggressive stroke play and consistent performances, Warner bid farewell to Test cricket in January and later to ODIs after a memorable ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final. His legacy as a fearless batter will inspire generations to come.
James Anderson: England’s Swing King Signs Off
The ‘King of Swing,’ James Anderson, bid adieu to international cricket in July 2024. The 41 year old ended his remarkable career as the most successful pacer in Test history, with 704 wickets. Anderson’s last Test at Lord’s against the West Indies was a fitting farewell for one of cricket’s greatest bowlers. With nearly two decades of excellence, his ability to move the ball both ways remains unmatched.
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja: India’s T20I Trio Departs Together
Indian cricket fans witnessed a bittersweet moment when Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja announced their retirement from T20Is after leading India to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024. Kohli’s clutch knock in the final, Sharma’s astute captaincy, and Jadeja’s all round brilliance made their farewell a celebration of excellence.
Shikhar Dhawan: Gabbar’s Final Curtain Call
Known for his flamboyant batting and charismatic smile, Shikhar Dhawan officially retired from all forms of cricket on August 24, 2024. Dhawan’s last international game may have come years earlier, but his retirement marked the end of an era for one of India’s most consistent ODI openers.
Tim Southee: The Kiwi Workhorse Steps Down
New Zealand’s Tim Southee retired from Test cricket after a stellar 17 year career. With 391 wickets, Southee stands as one of New Zealand’s finest pacers, second only to Sir Richard Hadlee. His farewell during the England series in Hamilton was an emotional moment for fans.
Neil Wagner: New Zealand’s Fierce Competitor
Neil Wagner, the fiery left arm quick from New Zealand, brought his career to a close in February 2024. Known for his tireless spells and short ball tactics, Wagner’s contributions to New Zealand’s inaugural World Test Championship triumph remain unforgettable.
Dinesh Karthik: India’s Ever Reliable Finisher
On June 1, Dinesh Karthik officially retired from all forms of cricket, including the IPL. Karthik’s role as a dependable wicketkeeper batter spanned two decades, with unforgettable performances in crucial matches.
Moeen Ali: England’s Dynamic All Rounder
Moeen Ali retired from international cricket in June 2024, citing the need for England’s younger generation to take charge. The 37 year old all rounder’s contributions with both bat and ball were integral to England’s success over the last decade.
Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s Icon Bids Farewell to T20Is
Bangladesh cricket faced a massive blow when Shakib Al Hasan retired from T20Is following the 2024 T20 World Cup. Although his farewell Test never materialized, Shakib’s legacy as one of the greatest all-rounders in the game remains intact.
Dean Elgar: South Africa’s Dependable Leader
South Africa’s gritty opener Dean Elgar was the first to retire in 2024. Elgar, who captained South Africa in 18 Tests and scored over 5,300 Test runs, ended his career before the Test series against India in December 2023.
2024 has been a year of emotional farewells, with cricket losing some of its finest legends. While their on-field presence will be missed, their contributions to the game will live on forever. As cricket evolves, these names will inspire future generations, reminding them of the greatness achieved by these legends.
FAQs
When did Ravichandran Ashwin retire?
Ashwin retired from all formats of international cricket on December 18, 2024
What was David Warner’s last Test match?
Warner’s final Test match was against Pakistan at the SCG on January 6, 2024
