In a heartfelt Instagram post, former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, concluding a remarkable and diverse career. Tiwary, who played 12 ODIs and three T20Is between 2008 and 2015, defied norms by venturing into politics while still an active cricketer. He later became a minister of state for sports and youth affairs in the West Bengal state cabinet under Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
During the 2022-23 domestic season, the 37-year-old returned to play for Bengal and showcased his cricketing prowess, leading the team to the final at Eden Gardens, where they faced a tough defeat against Saurashtra. This match marked Tiwary’s last First-Class game, making it a memorable ending to his cricketing journey.
Reflecting on his cricketing career, Tiwary expressed his gratitude to the sport that gave him everything he had never dreamt of, especially during times of adversity. He acknowledged the role of the Almighty, who stood by his side throughout the highs and lows of his cricketing journey.
Tiwary’s cricketing achievements were remarkable, with a stellar First-Class record for Bengal. He amassed 9908 runs, just 92 runs shy of the 10,000-landmark, at an impressive average of 48.56, which included 29 centuries. His one-day international career saw him score 287 runs from 12 matches, featuring a memorable century against the West Indies in Chennai in December 2011.
Additionally, Tiwary showcased his skills in 169 List A games, scoring 5581 runs at an average of 42.28. An aggressive middle-order batsman, he faced selection challenges in the Indian team, with the think tank under MS Dhoni often favoring a left-hander like Suresh Raina, who also happened to be Tiwary’s protege in the Chennai Super Kings franchise.
Despite facing difficulties in securing a permanent place in the national team, Tiwary’s dedication and passion for the game remained unwavering. His commitment to cricket and his achievements in domestic cricket earned him respect and admiration from fans and fellow players alike.
As he embarks on a new chapter in his life, transitioning from cricket to politics, Tiwary leaves behind a legacy of determination, perseverance, and excellence on and off the cricket field. The cricketing fraternity will always remember his contributions to the game, and his fans will continue to cherish the memories of his extraordinary cricketing journey.
