Mumbai, July 29: Several legendary cricketers have made remarkable comebacks by reversing their retirements, becoming notable mentions in sports history. Pakistan boasts big names like Imran Khan and Shahid Afridi, who are still considered among the best all-rounders and have both made comebacks after announcing their retirements. England's Kevin Pietersen and Moeen Ali are also among the players who have reversed their retirements. Additionally, the great Javagal Srinath made a significant impact for India in the 2003 World Cup after returning to the game. These players' stories of returning from retirement add a fascinating chapter to cricket history. West Indies Star All-Rounder Deandra Dottin Reverses Her International Retirement Ahead of ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Shahid Afridi
He retired several times only to make multiple comebacks, demonstrating his enduring skill and determination. Despite his frequent exits and returns, Shahid Afridi remained one of the most influential cricketers of the modern era. There was hardly anything he couldn't do on the cricket field, and he always found a place for himself. He took retirements in 2006, 2010, 2011, 2014, and 2017, with comebacks in 2006, 2011, and 2016.
Imran Khan
After Pakistan's defeat to Australia in the 1987 World Cup semi-final, the legendary Imran Khan decided to retire. However, he had a change of heart and returned to represent Pakistan at the request of President Zia-ul-Haq. Five years later, he retired as a World Cup winner.
Javagal Srinath
India finished as runners-up at the 2003 World Cup, with Javagal Srinath leading the attack. Sourav Ganguly had convinced Srinath to come out of retirement to play three more Tests and participate in the World Cup. Initially, Srinath had left the Caribbean in 2002, believing he had played his last Test, but Ganguly was determined not to let him retire.
Moeen Ali
Two years after leaving the game just five short of the milestone, Moeen Ali returned to Test cricket and surpassed 200 wickets. He had retired from Test cricket in 2021 but answered an SOS call ahead of the 2023 Ashes when Jack Leach was ruled out. Cricket Association for the Blind in India Pushes for Inclusion of Cricket for Visually Impaired in Los Angeles Paralympics 2028.
Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen, an early advocate for playing in franchise leagues worldwide, shocked England cricket when he ended his international limited-overs career just four months before the 2012 World T20. However, less than 60 days later, he hinted at a possible return, stating he would never rule out a comeback. True to his word, Pietersen returned to play eight more ODIs and a T20I for England.