Pragyan Ojha takes retirement from all forms of cricket .

New Delhi, Feb 21 (HS): Indian left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket with immediate effect. Ojha’s last appearance in an international match was 2013 against the West Indies.

Ojha made his international debut in 2008 against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup. He only played 18 ODI’s and 6 T20’s in total. He was quite successful in the longer format of the game, taking 113 wickets in 24 Tests.

The 33 year old also played for Bihar, Hyderabad, and Bengal in the first-class circuit. He also had success in the IPL in initial years, winning the title with Deccan Chargers in 2009 and with Mumbai Indians. He last played an IPL match was in 2015.

On his twitter handle, he said that “To be an Indian cricketer and represent the country at the highest level was always a dream I cherished as a youngster.

“My eventful career has witnessed many ups and downs. Over the time, I have realized that the legacy of a sportsperson is not just the outcome of his hard work and dedication, but also the faith and guidance bestowed upon by the association (team management), teammates, coaches, trainers, and the fans,” he added.

“I am very thankful to Mr. V.V.S Laxman for mentoring me like an elder brother, Mr. Venkatapathy Raju for being the role model I always looked to emulate, Mr. Harbhajan Singh for being a constant adviser and Mr. M.S. Dhoni for providing me with the honorable opportunity to wear the Indian Cap. Lastly, I am certain that looking back at my career will always fill me with a sense of pride,” said Ojha.

“The most memorable moments would be receiving my Test Cap from Mr. Sachin Tendulkar and accomplishing the feat of taking 100 Test wickets. I hope to continue contributing towards the growth of Indian Cricket in every capacity possible,” he added.