KC Cariappa Announces Retirement from BCCI Cricket at Age 31
Former Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings leg-spinner KC Cariappa has officially retired from Indian cricket under the BCCI. He made this announcement at the age of 31, ending a professional career that spanned several years and included memorable moments in the Indian Premier League.
IPL Journey with Highs and Lows
KC Cariappa first gained attention in the IPL during the 2015 season. Kolkata Knight Riders signed him for a substantial amount of Rs 2.4 crore. In his debut match, he achieved a significant feat by dismissing the renowned South African batsman AB de Villiers. This performance quickly made him a notable figure in the league.
Despite this promising start, Cariappa played only one match that season before KKR released him. The following year, Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings, acquired him for Rs 80 lakh. He participated in nine games over two seasons with the team.
Cariappa returned to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2019. However, he featured in just a single match once again. Throughout his IPL career, he played a total of 11 matches. He secured eight wickets with an economy rate of 9.66. Much of his time in the IPL was spent on the sidelines, despite the initial excitement surrounding his entry.
Emotional Retirement Announcement on Instagram
KC Cariappa shared his retirement news through an emotional post on Instagram. He reflected on his journey from humble beginnings to professional cricket. "From the streets where it all began to stadium lights and wearing the jersey with pride – I lived the dream I once only imagined. Today, I officially announce my retirement from BCCI cricket," he wrote.
He expressed gratitude for the experiences cricket provided him. "This journey gave me everything. Victories that made me smile, defeats that broke me and lessons that shaped me," Cariappa added. He acknowledged the pressures and joys of the sport, stating, "I've felt pressure, pain, sacrifice but also the kind of joy only cricket can give."
Domestic Cricket Career and Statistics
Although hailing from Karnataka, KC Cariappa represented Mizoram in domestic cricket. He enjoyed a productive run in various formats:
- First-Class Matches: In 14 matches, he took 75 wickets at an average of 23.20.
- List A Games: He claimed 24 wickets in 20 matches.
- T20 Matches: He finished with 58 wickets from 58 games, maintaining an economy rate of 6.60.
Cariappa thanked the Karnataka State Cricket Association for their support in building his career. He also expressed appreciation for the Cricket Association of Mizoram, which treated him like family. Reflecting on his IPL years, he wrote, "My 7-year IPL journey will always stay close to my heart."
Final Thoughts and Future Outlook
In his closing remarks, KC Cariappa struck a heartfelt note. "I may be retiring from BCCI cricket today but I will never retire from loving this game," he stated. This sentiment highlights his enduring passion for cricket despite stepping away from professional play.
His retirement marks the end of a career that showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in domestic cricket. Fans and followers will remember his early IPL promise and his contributions to the sport in India.
