A look at Indian cricketers who announced retirement in Border Gavaskar Series

Team India is preparing for their last Test series in the ongoing WTC Cycle. The visitors will have a lot at the stake when they face the Kangaroos down under. Ahead of the BGT, India faced a horrendous outcome as New Zealand handed them their first ever 3-0 Test series whitewash at home. The series defeat not only put a murky blot on their home record, it also severely affected their chance to qualify for the WTC Final. The loss against the Kiwis, moreover, highlighted the shortcomings of the team as senior players like skipper Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli faced scrutiny over their dry run in the format. Now, the five-match series in Australia is touted to mark a turning point in Indian Test Cricket. While a win can subside the matter until the 2025 WTC Final, a defeat in the BGT is likely to trigger some retirements from the India squad.

Indian players who have retired in the Border Gavaskar Trophy

With multiple prospects of the India squad for the Border Gavaskar Trophy in their late thirties, the Test series was likely to witness some significant moments. However, the events, if transpire, will now come under the shadow of a poor run of the team in the format as the home defeat against New Zealand has marred their reputation. Over the years, several Indian legends have chosen this high-stakes series as the moment to bid farewell to the sport or the longest format of the game. With the next edition of the Border Gavaskar Trophy set to commence on November 9 in Perth, here’s a look back at the stalwarts who retired during this illustrious rivalry.

Anil Kumble

A legendary spinner and India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, Anil Kumble retired during the 2008 Border Gavaskar Trophy. Competing alongside spinning greats like Muttiah Muralitharan and Shane Warne, Kumble cemented his own legacy through unwavering determination and unique tactics. In a career spanning 132 Tests, he claimed 619 wickets at an impressive average of 29.65, etching his name among cricket’s finest.

Sourav Ganguly

Celebrated as one of India’s most transformative captains, Sourav Ganguly called time on his international career during the 2008 edition of the series. Leading India between 1999 and 2005, Ganguly brought a fearless approach to the team, fostering confidence and building a strong unit, particularly in overseas conditions. His leadership is credited with shaping a new era in Indian cricket, and his contributions on and off the field remain unparalleled.

Rahul Dravid

The widely-celebrated "Wall" of Indian cricket who recently concluded his successful run as the head coach of the Indian team is also listed among the players who retired during the India vs Australia series. Known for his tenacity, Rahul Dravid was the epitome of dependability in India’s batting order. The legendary Dravid retired after India’s 4-0 defeat to Australia during the 2011-12 Border Gavaskar Trophy.

Virender Sehwag

Virender Sehwag, the dynamic opener known for his fearless and aggressive batting, redefined how Test cricket was played. His last appearance in the longest format came during the 2013 Border Gavaskar Trophy. Sehwag’s explosive style and remarkable strike rate made him one of the fastest scorers in Test history, leaving an indelible mark on the game and setting new benchmarks for Indian cricket.

MS Dhoni

Arguably one of India’s most successful captains, MS Dhoni concluded his Test career during the 2014 Border Gavaskar series. Known for his calm demeanor and exceptional cricketing acumen, Dhoni announced his retirement from Tests on December 30, 2014, following India’s defeat in the series. His understated yet impactful leadership remains a benchmark in Indian cricketing history.