New Delhi – The Indian leg‑spinner revealed on Friday that he is hanging up his red‑ball shoes, concluding a first‑class stint that lasted almost ten years, and confirming that his desire to don the India jersey in ODIs and T20Is is still very much alive.
A Red‑Ball Goodbye
Chahal reflected on a path that started when he was ten, holding a red ball for the first time. He described the longer format as more than just another version of the game, crediting it with instilling patience, resilience and the mental toughness required for long spells.
Although a Test cap never came his way, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the experiences and opportunities the format afforded, acknowledging how it helped mould the bowler he has become.
148 Wickets in 49 Matches
The 36‑year‑old bows out of first‑class cricket with 148 scalps at an average of 32.27, his best figures a tidy 6 for 25. His latest chapter was with Northamptonshire in the English county circuit.
His final first‑class outing took place at Lord’s against Middlesex, where he dismissed two batsmen. In the 2026‑27 County Championship he claimed 21 wickets in five games, highlighted by a nine‑wicket haul versus Durham.
Eyes on an ODI/T20I Return
Even as he steps away from the red ball, Chahal made it clear he is not shutting the door on international cricket. In his farewell note he reiterated his appetite to represent India in the limited‑overs arena and insisted he still has plenty of cricket left in his tank.
He also thanked the Haryana Cricket Association and key mentors – Ranbir Singh Mahindra and Anirudh Singh Choudhary – for their steadfast support throughout his career.
With the first‑class chapter closed, his attention now fully rests on the shorter formats, hoping to earn his way back into the Indian side.
