India’s opening batsman Gautam Gambhir has announced retirement from cricket. He posted an emotional video on Social Media with the news of retirement. Along with it, he wrote, “The most difficult decisions are often taken with the heaviest of hearts. And with one heavy heart, I’ve decided to make an announcement that I’ve dreaded all my life.”

The most difficult decisions are often taken with the heaviest of hearts. And with one heavy heart, I’ve decided to make an announcement that I’ve dreaded all my life. ➡️https://t.co/J8QrSHHRCT@BCCI #Unbeaten — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) December 4, 2018

Gautam Gambhir will make one last appearance in the game of cricket. Delhi’s next match in the Ranji Trophy will be the last cricket match for the left-hander. The 37-year-old mentioned in the video that he has been contemplating the decision for a while and finally, he came to a conclusion to hang up his boots.

He thanked his fans, especially from Kolkata, for the constant support. The curators, coaches, fellow players were also on his list that he expressed his gratitude for. His family and close relatives were also a great help for him and Gambhir didn’t forget to mention their contributions.

An illustrious career

Gautam Gambhir first played for India in 2003 when he represented the team in an ODI against Bangladesh. He went on to become a prominent member of the Indian side across all formats. Along with Virender Sehwag, he formed a formidable pair in the longest format of the game. He played a pivotal role in taking India to No.1 ranking in ICC Test Rankings.

However, the most memorable contributions of his career came when it mattered the most for the country. He was the highest run-getter in India’s triumphs in 2007 ICC World T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup. Gambhir’s knock of 75 in 2007 and 97 in 2011 will remain etched in Indian cricketing history forever.

He represented India in 58 Tests and scored 4154 runs at an average of 42. Also, he has 147 ODI caps with 5238 runs and 932 runs in 37 T20Is. In IPL, he played 154 matches and scored 4218 runs. He also captained the Kolkata Knight Riders and the franchise won 2 IPL titles under his leadership.

Here’s the video where Gautam Gambhir announced retirement

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