Did you know there are several famous cricketers who retired but later made a comeback to international cricket? For instance, Brendon Taylor is set to return to ODIs after 4 years. After announcing his retirement in September 2021, he’s once again part of Zimbabwe’s ODI squad that will take on Sri Lanka. So, let’s look at 5 cricketers who reversed their retirement decisions.
Shahid Afridi
Calling him the "King of Retirements" wouldn’t be wrong. Do you know how many times Shahid Afridi announced retirement? Five times! He first called it quits in 2006, then again in 2010, 2011, and 2014—only to return each time. Afridi always had a place in Pakistan’s team, no matter what. He last retired in 2017. I say “last” but not “final,” because who knows—he might just show up again.
Kevin Pietersen
Here’s a fun one: Kevin Pietersen announced his retirement from limited-overs cricket in 2012. The twist? The T20 World Cup was just four months away. The ECB persuaded him to return, and he did. Pietersen went on to play eight more ODIs and a T20I.
Tamim Iqbal
This one was dramatic. Tamim Iqbal even held an emotional press conference in 2023 to announce his retirement. But three months later, he reversed the decision to play in the ODI World Cup. And guess who convinced him? None other than Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina herself!
Moeen Ali
This case is fascinating. Moeen Ali retired from Test cricket in 2021. But two years later, Ben Stokes called him up, saying: “Mate, Jack Leach is injured and we need you for the Ashes.” Moeen didn’t just return, he also entered the 200-wicket club in Tests during his second innings.
Javagal Srinath
Here’s a lesser-known story. Javagal Srinath suddenly announced his retirement after the 2002 West Indies tour. But Sourav Ganguly stepped in and convinced him to return. And what a comeback it was! Srinath led India’s pace attack in the 2003 World Cup, taking 16 wickets in 11 ODIs as India stormed into the final.
