T20 expert Pooran retires from West Indies duty at 29

Nicholas Pooran, one of the world's leading T20 batters, has retired from international duty with West Indies aged 29.

The Trinidadian has played 167 times for West Indies, but the decision will allow him to concentrate on playing in lucrative franchise leagues.

He had already skipped the ongoing T20 series against England to rest following his time playing for Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

He also has deals in Major League Cricket (MLC) and The Hundred this summer.

While Pooran is not the first player to retire from internationals in favour of franchise leagues - South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen did so last week - his decision is one of the most significant, given his age and profile.

West Indies captain Shai Hope was asked about Pooran's decision to skip the England series last week but said that decision would not impact his future selection.

It is understood Pooran told West Indies of his retirement on Monday.

He last played for West Indies in December 2024 in T20s against Bangladesh, but has not played an ODI since July 2023 and does not play Tests.