Tamil Nadu bowler Vijaykumar Yo Mahesh announced his retirement from all formats of cricket on Sunday. Mahesh, who turns 33 on Monday, took to social media to share a post.
Yo Mahesh had played for Chennai Super Kings in IPL, before getting signed by Delhi Daredevils for the year 2008-2010. He was also part of India's U-19 squad for World Cup 2006.
"At the outset, thanks to BCCI for the opportunity to represent India at the Under-19 level and India A level. It's been an honour and with utmost pride I call it the highest point in my career,” Mahesh wrote in his post on Twitter.
"To my two IPL franchises, DD and CSK, for having faith in me to represent them and for giving me an opportunity to share the dressing room with the legends of the game. The last five years have been injury-ridden but I am grateful to India Cements for being solid and having my back."
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"I would like to thank my state cricket Tamil Nadu Cricket Association for nurturing me from the age of 14 and finishing with 12 years of first-class cricket,” the statement further read.
Mahesh felt injuries played a spoilsport in his career but he has no regret. "I felt it was the right time to leave the game. I am content with what I have achieved. If not for the injuries, I could have played more but there are no regrets. Being picked for the U-19 and India A sides were the high points of my career. To be able to play my part for Tamil Nadu has been very fulfilling," Yo Mahesh told TOI.
"I have immense gratitude for the BCCI, TNCA and India Cements as they have taken care of me over the years. I am also thankful to my family and friends for their support," he said.
Yo Mahesh is looking forward to playing overseas T20 leagues if there is an opportunity in the future.
"I would love to be part of any opportunity that comes up. I am also passionate about both as a skill coach and a strength and conditioning coach. So, I am keeping both options open and excited to see where the future takes me," he added.
The 33-year-old has played 46 T20s, 61 List A, and 50 First-Class matches. Mahesh has two First Class hundred and 108 wickets.
(With Times of India Inputs)