The schedule of cricketers is getting hectic day by day. Earlier, there used to be enough time for cricketers to take breaks and rejuvenate themselves for the next series. However, in the modern era, cricketers are forced to skip matches if they want some rest.
There is very little gap between two series, and with the T20 leagues revolution, a lot is expected from the players. The tough schedule takes a massive toll on the fitness of the players, and it compelled the following five names to shockingly quit one format of the sport at a relatively young age.
1. Ben Stokes – ODIs
England Test captain Ben Stokes has decided to end his ODI career after the first match of the upcoming series against the South African cricket team. He will play his last ODI tomorrow at the age of 31.
2. MS Dhoni – Tests
Chennai Super Kings skipper MS Dhoni retired from Test cricket in late 2014. The wicket-keeper batter called it a day on his Test career at the age of 33 after the Boxing Day Test against the Australian cricket team.
3. Quinton de Kock – Tests
Another wicket-keeper batter to feature on the list is Quinton de Kock. The left-handed batter announced his retirement during the ICC World Test Championship series against the Indian cricket team at the age of 29.
4. Mahmudullah – Tests
Bangladesh all-rounder Mahmudullah shockingly decided to end his Test career after playing one of his best knocks in international cricket against the Zimbabwean side last year.
5. Lasith Malinga – Tests
Former Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga announced his retirement from Test cricket in 2011 when he was just 27 years old. Malinga continued to play in the shorter formats of the game and made a name for himself with his excellent bowling performances.
