Siddharth Kaul: A Journey of Passion, Success, and Farewell

Siddharth Kaul, a pivotal member of India's victorious 2008 Under-19 Cricket World Cup squad, officially bid farewell to Indian cricket on November 28. The Punjab pacer, who shared the spotlight with future stars like Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, and Manish Pandey, announced his retirement on social media. Reflecting on his career, Kaul expressed gratitude to those who supported him through highs and lows.

In his heartfelt post on X, Kaul mentioned that it was time to step away from Indian cricket. Now 34, he represented India in three ODIs and three T20Is between 2018 and 2019. Beyond international cricket, he left a mark in domestic and franchise cricket, playing for teams like Delhi Daredevils, Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL.

“The time has now come to call time on my career in India and announce my retirement,” wrote Kaul.

“I want to thank God for the path that has been made for me; the fans for the endless support; my parents and family for the sacrifices and confidence you have given me, especially during the injuries and lows. My teammates over the years for the dressing room memories and friendships; the BCCI for fulfilling a young child's dream to represent India and win the 2008 Under-19 World Cup and receive my T20i and ODI caps in 2018,” (sic) he said.

Recently, Kaul embarked on a new chapter in his life, joining the State Bank of India, a move he proudly shared on X. Though he has retired from Indian cricket, the fast bowler remains open to competing in overseas leagues.

Kaul’s post also included a heartfelt acknowledgment of those who shaped his journey. He thanked his family for their unwavering belief, especially during challenging times, and the BCCI for turning his childhood dream into reality by granting him the chance to represent India. He also expressed gratitude to his teammates, IPL franchises, and the Punjab Cricket Association for their support and the memories created throughout his career.

Over a stellar domestic career, Kaul played 88 First-Class matches, capturing 297 wickets. In List A cricket, he took 199 wickets in 111 games, and in T20s, he claimed 182 scalps across 145 matches. His legacy includes holding the record as the highest wicket-taker in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 155 dismissals, as well as in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he bagged 120 wickets in 87 games.

Kaul's final appearance in competitive cricket was in a Ranji Trophy match between Punjab and Haryana earlier this month. While his cricketing chapter with India has ended, Kaul's contributions and records have cemented his place in the history of Indian cricket.