Yuzvendra Chahal has announced his immediate retirement from first-class cricket, bringing the red-ball chapter of his career to an emotional close after 17 years. The Indian leg-spinner played his final first-class match for Northamptonshire against Middlesex at Lord’s during the 2026 County Championship season.
Chahal made his first-class debut for Haryana in 2009 and went on to finish his career with 148 wickets from 49 matches at an average of 32.27. Although he never played a Test match for India, the 36-year-old spinner said earning a Test cap had remained a long-standing dream throughout his career.
Chahal Ends Red-Ball Career on a Strong Note
The leg-spinner’s final season in first-class cricket produced some of his most impressive recent red-ball performances. Representing Northamptonshire in Division Two of the County Championship, Chahal claimed 21 wickets in five matches at an average of 16.14. His performances helped keep Northamptonshire in contention for promotion during the season.
His final appearance came at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground against Middlesex. Northamptonshire eventually suffered a seven-wicket defeat, bringing Chahal’s first-class journey to an end.
An Emotional Farewell
Announcing his decision on social media, Chahal reflected on his relationship with red-ball cricket. He said the first cricket ball he held as a youngster was a red ball and described the format as the place where he learned patience, character and resilience.
Chahal acknowledged that his dream of playing Test cricket for India remained unfulfilled, but expressed gratitude for the journey and the opportunities he received throughout his first-class career.
Chahal Is Not Retiring From Cricket
Importantly, Chahal’s decision only applies to first-class cricket. He has made it clear that he intends to continue playing white-ball cricket and remains determined to earn another opportunity with India in ODIs and T20Is.
Chahal has represented India in 72 ODIs and 80 T20Is, with his last international appearance coming in August 2023. He was also part of India’s 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad.
The spinner remains active in the IPL and currently represents Punjab Kings. He is also the IPL’s leading wicket-taker, underlining his continued importance in T20 cricket.
For Chahal, therefore, this is not the end of his cricket career. It is the closing of one chapter and a renewed focus on limited-overs cricket, with the Indian team still firmly in his sights
