Ireland all-rounder Simi Singh has announced his retirement from professional cricket.
Born in the Indian state of Punjab, Simi Singh moved to Ireland in 2006 at the age of 19. However, he had to wait another 11 years to make his international debut for Ireland. He began representing Ireland in 2017 at the age of 30.
During his international career, Simi Singh played 35 One-Day Internationals and 53 Twenty20 Internationals for Ireland.
He scored more than 2,000 runs overall and also took 83 wickets. His bowling was particularly impressive in ODI cricket, where he had an economy rate of just 3.99.
Simi Singh played his last international match against Sri Lanka at the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.
2021 Was the Highlight of Simi Singh’s Career
The best performances of Simi Singh’s career came in 2021. He began the year with an ODI against the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi, scoring an unbeaten 54 and taking five wickets for 10 runs.
A few months later, he scored an unbeaten century against South Africa in an ODI in Malahide.
He became the first batter in ODI cricket to score a century while batting at No. 8. Based on these performances, he was also included in the ICC ODI Team of the Year.
Simi Singh’s Statement on Retirement
Announcing his retirement, Simi Singh said he had moved to Ireland at the age of 19 with the dream of playing international cricket and, looking back, his journey had been incredible.
He thanked Ireland and everyone who supported him, believed in him and helped him throughout his journey. Simi Singh also credited his family’s love and support for his achievements, saying they had stood by him at every stage of his journey.
He specifically thanked Alan Lewis, saying that Lewis had played an important role in both his professional and personal life, particularly during his YMCA days.
Simi Singh also mentioned coach Graham Ford, saying that a great coach can make a real difference for a player, and for him, Graham Ford was the coach who played an important role in his career and achievements.
Simi Singh said Ireland would always hold a special place in his heart. He said he would always remain a proud supporter of Irish cricket and wished the new generation great success.
Launches Coaching Academy After Recovery
In 2024, Simi Singh suffered acute liver failure and underwent a liver transplant.
After recovering, he started his own coaching academy in Punjab, India.
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