‘There is more life than cricket’: Experienced domestic batsmen explain the initial retirement calls. Cricket news

Former Gujarat cricket captain Priyank Panchal announced his retirement in May 2025 from all forms of cricket, which recently shares his approach during the “Ask Me Ather Etho” session on Social Media Platform X. The 35 -year -old domestic cricket veteran, who had previously led India A and was part of the senior national squad, explained his decision of early transition in his subsequent cricket career. During his social media interaction, Panchal said, “Every cricketer has two career – playing and non -powering one. Once I knew that I could not play for India, it was understood to start later and get a headstart. Finally it is more for life than cricket,” Panchal said during his social media interaction. Panchal’s cricket career is in an influential 127 first -class matches, during which he scored 8,856 runs with an average of 45.18, including 29 centuries and 34 fifties. His performance in domestic cricket shows his batting in forms. In List A Cricket, Panchal participated in 97 matches, scoring an average of 3,672 runs in 40.80, with eight centuries and 21 half -centuries. His T20 career includes 59 matches, where he scored 1,522 runs at an average of 28.71, including nine half -centuries. The right-handed inauguration batsman gained significant recognition during the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy season, scored 1,310 runs and recorded his highest personal score of 314 Not Out. This remarkable performance took place with the victory of Gujarat in the major domestic competition. Rohit Sharma was named as a replacement in Panchal’s participation with the Indian national team when he was later injured. He was also selected as one of the reserve openers, along with Abhimanyu Ishvaran for the Home Test series against England in 2021.

His contribution to Gujarat cricket is beyond personal achievements. Panchal was part of the successful Gujarat teams, who won several domestic titles including Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2015-16 and Syed Mashtak Ali Trophy in 2015-16 and consecutive sessions of 2012-13 and 2013-14. The declaration of his retirement reflects a thoughtful transition to pursue opportunities beyond sports from active cricket. His decision, as explained during social media interaction, emphasizes the importance of planning for career after cricket and making timely infection if necessary. During his career, Panchal performed continuously in various domestic cricket formats, establishing himself as a reliable inaugurated batsman and leader in Gujarat cricket. Her achievements in domestic cricket, including many tournaments win and individual milestones, have left a permanent impact on Indian domestic cricket. His retirement time, at the age of 35, and his clear expression of logic behind this decision provides insight into the career planning ideas of professional cricketers. His approach ranging from playing cricket to other opportunities reflects a practical understanding of career progress in professional sports.