The year 2025 marked a turning point in international cricket, with several Legendary Cricketers Retired in 2025. From Indian batting greats to explosive global all-rounders, fans around the world witnessed the end of an era. These players have left behind legacies that shaped the modern game across all formats.
Virat Kohli – Retires from Test Cricket
On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket. With over 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, including 30 centuries, Kohli remains one of the most successful red-ball players of all time. His leadership brought India 40 Test wins, making him the country’s most successful Test captain. Kohli’s departure from the longest format is a major moment in cricket history.
Rohit Sharma – Bids Goodbye to Tests
Just days before Kohli, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma also announced his retirement from Test cricket. With 3,677 runs in 52 matches at an average of 46.54, Rohit proved his mettle in red-ball cricket after initially being seen as a white-ball specialist. His elegant stroke play and leadership will be missed.
Glenn Maxwell – ODI Retirement
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell bid farewell to One Day Internationals in June 2025. Known for his dynamic batting, Maxwell scored 3,990 runs in 149 ODIs and was instrumental in two World Cup wins. His record-breaking 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup remains one of the most iconic knocks in modern cricket.
Heinrich Klaasen – Retires from All Formats
South African wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen retired from all formats of international cricket in June 2025. With 1,798 ODI runs and over 1,000 T20I runs, Klaasen was a consistent middle-order performer. He cited personal reasons and a desire to focus on domestic and franchise cricket for stepping away from international duties.
Shikhar Dhawan – All Formats Retirement
Though Shikhar Dhawan retired officially in late 2024, his absence became prominent in 2025. With over 10,000 runs across all formats, Dhawan was known for his fearless batting and ICC tournament consistency. His century on Test debut and dominance in white-ball cricket made him a fan favorite.
Martin Guptill – End of an Era for New Zealand
Martin Guptill, one of New Zealand’s most reliable openers, retired in January 2025. His 7,346 ODI runs and iconic 237* in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final are milestones in New Zealand cricket history. His power-hitting and ability to anchor innings will be hard to replace.
Tamim Iqbal – Bangladesh’s Batting Icon Bows Out
Tamim Iqbal, the most prolific batsman in Bangladesh’s cricketing history, also retired in early 2025. He scored over 14,000 runs across all formats, serving as a pillar of consistency and experience. His influence on Bangladesh’s rise in world cricket cannot be overstated.
Rishi Dhawan – Domestic Hero Retires
Indian all-rounder Rishi Dhawan retired from limited-overs cricket in 2025. Although his international appearances were limited, he was a mainstay in domestic cricket. His contributions helped Himachal Pradesh secure significant victories in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
Angelo Mathews – Sri Lankan Veteran Calls It Quits
Angelo Mathews concluded his stellar international career in 2025. With over 13,000 runs and 200+ wickets across formats, Mathews was one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable all-rounders. His calm demeanor and ability to guide the team through difficult situations earned him widespread respect.
Why 2025 Was a Landmark Year for Cricket Retirements
Many of the retirees began their careers between 2008 and 2013, and with over a decade of service, age and the evolving nature of the game played a part in their decisions. The rise of T20 leagues, increased workload, and personal priorities contributed to this generational shift in cricket.
What’s Next for These Cricket Icons?
-
Virat Kohli is expected to continue playing franchise T20 cricket and possibly mentor young Indian players.
-
Rohit Sharma may transition into commentary or coaching roles, given his deep cricketing acumen.
-
Glenn Maxwell and Heinrich Klaasen are likely to remain active in leagues like IPL, SA20, and The Hundred.
-
Martin Guptill and Tamim Iqbal are expected to serve in cricket administration or coaching roles within their national setups.
skdass123