KS Bharat Announces Retirement From International Cricket, Thanks Captains Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli

Wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat has ended an international career that included seven Test matches for India. Bharat, 32, announced retirement from international cricket on Instagram on Thursday, saying the chance to represent India was the greatest honour. Bharat’s last Test appearance came against England at Visakhapatnam in February 2024, after which other wicketkeeping choices moved ahead in the selection order.

Bharat was widely regarded as a safe pair of hands behind the stumps, yet batting numbers stayed under scrutiny. Across seven Tests, Bharat scored 221 runs at an average of 20.09 and did not reach fifty even once. Bharat collected 18 catches and completed one stumping, finishing with a reputation as a reliable specialist wicketkeeper for India in Test cricket.

KS Bharat retirement: heartfelt Instagram message and family support

In the retirement note, Bharat described how long effort and family backing helped shape an international dream. Bharat wrote: "With a proud heart and sense of gratitude, I announce my retirement from international Cricket. 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.”

The post went on to underline the central role of Bharat’s family over more than twenty years. Bharat added: “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."

KS Bharat retirement: international record and key numbers

Before stepping away from the global stage, Bharat had featured in India’s squad for the 2023 World Test Championship final. Bharat did not manage to secure a long-term Test spot despite these opportunities. The overall Test record, summarised below, reflects a modest batting return and effective wicketkeeping across those seven matches.

KS Bharat retirement: domestic cricket journey and associations

While confirming retirement from international cricket, Bharat did not mention any exit from domestic cricket. Bharat has enjoyed a strong first-class record, playing 116 matches and scoring 6,102 runs. The tally includes a triple hundred, with a highest score of 308. Bharat also thanked the Andhra Cricket Association and the Visakhapatnam District Cricket Association for long-term backing.

Bharat wrote: "Thank you, BCCI and all the coaches and managers who I came across in my career and who supported me unconditionally by creating a great environment to play and excel at the highest level. Thank you Andhra Cricket Association, VDCA and all office bearers for your support and encouragement from my childhood.” Bharat also acknowledged grounds staff for constant work on pitches and outfields.

KS Bharat retirement: thanks to Kohli, Rohit and Dravid

The retirement message also carried a detailed note for senior Indian figures who shaped Bharat’s rise. Bharat highlighted Virat Kohli, under whom Bharat made an IPL debut for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Bharat then recognised Rohit Sharma, who captained India when Bharat played a first Test, and former head coach Rahul Dravid for guidance from India A level onwards.