- Saturday, September 28, 2024
The all-rounder’s last season of Caribbean Premier League was cut short due to an injury that he sustained earlier this week
By: Shajil Kumar
WEST INDIES all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket and will join IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders as a mentor.
The 40-year-old thus replaces Gautam Gambhir, who left the role to take over as India head coach earlier this year.
Bravo’s last season of Caribbean Premier League was cut short due to an injury that he sustained earlier this week.
“Today is the day I say goodbye to the game that has given me everything,” he wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
“Twenty-one years as a professional cricketer – it’s been an incredible journey, filled with many highs and a few lows. Most importantly, I was able to live my dream because I gave you 100 at every step.”
“As much as I’d love to continue this relationship, it’s time to face reality.”
Bravo had stepped away from international cricket in 2021 while concluding his IPL career last year. He has since dabbled with coaching, working with the Chennai Super Kings and the Afghanistan men’s team.
“DJ Bravo joining us is an exciting development. His relentless drive to win, along with his vast experience and deep knowledge, will greatly benefit our franchise and players,” Knight Riders Group CEO Venky Mysore said in a media release on Friday.
Apart from KKR, he will be in charge the other franchises under the Knight Riders label in T20 leagues. The new role puts an end to his long association with CSK.
“We’re also pleased that Bravo will be involved with our other franchises globally, including CPL, MLC, and ILT20,” Mysore said.
Talking about his role in KKR, Bravo said: “I’ve been part of the Trinbago Knight Riders for the last 10 years in the CPL. Having played for and against the Knight Riders in various leagues, I have a lot of respect for how they operate.
“The owners’ passion, the professionalism of the management, and the family-like environment make it a special place. This is the perfect platform for me as I transition from playing to mentoring and coaching the next generation of players.”
“My mind wants to keep going, but my body can no longer endure the pain.” (PTI)
