Kieron Pollard, one of the top foreign stars in the Indian Premier League (IPL), made the difficult decision to retire from the T20 league on Tuesday, the same day franchises were set to release their ‘released and retained’ lists. Pollard, who was expected to be put back in the player pool by the franchise, after a regular 2022 season, took a step forward by deciding not to play in the league at all. In a statement released, Pollard explained why he decided to leave the T20 competition.
Pollard, who remains an active cricketer outside the international arena, has no plans to draw the curtain on his playing career anytime soon. In a statement, the former West Indian all-rounder explained that he decided to leave IPL because he does not want to play against Mumbai Indians.
“It wasn’t the easiest decision to make as I will continue to play for a few more years but I understand that this incredible franchise that has accomplished so much needs to transition and if I no longer play for MI then I will see myself playing against MI either. Once an MI always an MI. I am extremely proud, honored and blessed to have represented the greatest and most successful team in the IPL for the past 13 seasons,” he said as he explained the decision.
“It is with the utmost sincerity that I express my deep appreciation to Mukesh, Nita and Akash Ambani for their immense love, support and respect that I have always felt and the trust they placed in me. I remember our first meeting when they met me with welcomed with open arms and said, “We are family. Those were not just words, but were demonstrated by every action throughout my time with Mumbai Indians,” he added.
Pollard was signed by Mumbai Indians in 2010 and has not played for any other franchise in the money-rich league since then, spending 13 glittering seasons with the Mumbai-based franchise. In April of this year he had ended his international career.
He will now work as a hitting coach for the franchise beginning with the 2023 season.
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