Cricket fans and commentators are paying tribute to KS Bharat after the Indian wicket-keeper announced his immediate retirement from the international game. Bharat played seven Tests for India in 2023 and 2024, five of which came against Australia.
He made his international debut in the first Test against Australia in February of 2023 in Nagpur, and went on to play all four matches as India won the Border-Gavaskar series 2-1. He made his top score of 44 in the fourth Test, which saw him keep his spot for the World Test Championship final – also against Australia – that year.
KS Bharat played five of his seven Tests matches against Australia. Image: Getty
His last Test was against England in 2024, before he fell out of favour with selectors and was replaced. He finishes with 221 runs and 19 dismissals in Tests.
“With a proud heart and a sense of gratitude, I announce my retirement from international cricket,” Bharat wrote on social media. “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. In a family of four, we all lived the same dream over two decades, a big heart to my sister, mom and dad for creating an environment and support system they have been. I am a product of their love, discipline and hard work.”
Cricket world congratulates KS Bharat on career
Bharat thanked former India captains Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and made special mention of former Test coach Rahul Dravid. “A big thank you to my IPL debut captain Virat Kohli for giving me an opportunity to show my skill and come into recognition,” he wrote.
“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, his guidance from India A to Indian team is unforgettable. With your support, I could become an Indian Test cricketer.”
KS Bharat during the World Test Championship final between India and Australia in 2023.
(GLYN KIRK)
Bharat has also played 113 first-class matches and 83 List-A games, scoring nearly 9000 runs and taking over 600 dismissals across both. One person wrote on social media: “Wishing him the very best for the road ahead and all his future endeavours.”
Another commented: “Congratulations on fantastic career, wish you the best ahead.” While a third added: “Wishing you all the very best for your next innings.”