India and Karnataka fast bowler Abhimanyu Mithun has on Thursday (October 7) announced his retirement from first-class cricket after 12 seasons to pursue other avenues in his career.

The Karnataka pacer played four Tests (9 wickets) and five ODIs (3 wickets) for India having made his international debut in 2010. The 31-year-old played 103 first-class matches, 96 List A games, and 74 T20s, picking up more than 500 wickets in a 13-year-long career.

Mithun also featured in 16 games for 7 wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He represented Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), Mumbai Indians (MI), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL.

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Abhimanyu said in a statement: “After serious thought and contemplation I, Abhimanyu Mithun, have decided to retire from first-class cricket in order to pursue other avenues in my career. I have represented my country at the highest level and will always be my biggest achievement. The joy and pride from it will be something I will cherish forever.”

He continued, “I would like to thank the BCCI for the massive role they have played throughout my cricketing journey. Their support has been invaluable. My cricketing journey would not have even started if it wasn't for the Karnataka State Cricket Association. They identify me shaped me as a player and supported me through my highs and lows. It has been my honor to have played for Karnataka and win so many trophies for my state. I have made memories and friends for life.

I would like to place on record the excellent support I received from the KSCA for almost two decades. I would also like to thank Vultures Cricket Club for having identified me, nurtured me, and mentored me through this journey. I would like to thank the IPL teams - Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians and Sunrisers Hyderabad for having faith in me to represent and play for them.”

Mithun signed off by saying, “I would like to thank the members of the media who have covered my journey from the beginning and highlighted my achievements. Cricket is a universal game and I believe in finishing at the highest level. So I had to take this decision and seek better opportunities for myself and my family around the world. I am also clear that Karnataka has abundant fast bowling of talent and they would miss out opportunities at the right time if I prolong my career.”

(With ANI Inputs)