Versatile Cricketer Parvez Rasool Bids Farewell to All Formats of the Game

Parvez Rasool, a trailblazer in cricket from Jammu and Kashmir, embarked on an illustrious career filled with milestones. As the first cricketer from the region to represent India internationally and to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rasool has been a pioneer. However, after dedicating 17 years to First-Class cricket, amassing 352 wickets and 5,648 runs, Rasool has decided to retire from all formats of the sport. The 36-year-old, hailing from Bijbehara in Kashmir, officially informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his decision on Saturday.

“When we began, Jammu and Kashmir cricket wasn’t taken seriously by many. Yet, we managed to beat some of the bigger teams and performed well in the Ranji Trophy and other BCCI tournaments. Leading the team for a significant duration and contributing to its success was truly satisfying,” Rasool expressed emotionally to Sportstar.

Rasool’s international career comprised just two matches—one T20I and one ODI—but his domestic performances were notably consistent. His achievements include winning the Lala Amarnath Trophy for the best all-rounder in the Ranji Trophy twice, in the 2013/14 and 2017/18 seasons, showcasing his significant contributions.

His T20I debut against England in Kanpur in 2017 sparked controversy when a video circulated online showing him chewing gum during the national anthem. Responding to the backlash, Rasool stated, “For cricketers from our region, making it to the national team is quite challenging, and these controversies are disheartening. Staying resilient and not focusing on such issues is vital.”

In the 2012-13 season, Rasool was a standout for J&K, scoring 594 runs and taking 33 wickets, earning him a spot on the Indian team and a contract with the now-defunct IPL franchise, Pune Warriors, captained by Sourav Ganguly.

“My goal was always to secure victory for my team. Although results weren’t always in our favor, I strived to perform my best for J&K,” he reflected, adding, “Now that I have some free time, I looked at the stats, and they’re not too shabby. I’ve been named player of the match quite a few times in the IPL, making those performances special…”

Despite his achievements, Rasool fell out of favor with the current Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association, missing out on the Ranji Trophy team for the last few seasons. Instead, he continued to compete in First-Class cricket in Sri Lanka and mentored upcoming players in the valley.

“I’d be lying if I said it didn’t hurt being left out of the team. However, some things are beyond a cricketer’s control. I accepted it and moved on,” he said.

In the 2017-18 season, Rasool experienced a disagreement with Mithun Manhas, the team’s player-mentor, now BCCI president, but intervention from JKCA officials helped manage the situation. As newer talents emerged in J&K, Rasool’s position in the team became less secure.

Rasool considered switching teams last year but ultimately remained committed to J&K. “Over the years, I had several offers from different State teams, but I always stayed with J&K. Now retired, I aim to continue serving the game,” he affirmed.

Recently earning his Level-II coaching certificate from the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Rasool plans to pursue full-time coaching, mentor young talents, and participate in overseas leagues.

“It has been an incredible journey, and I am grateful for everyone who supported me. It wasn’t easy, but with love and blessings, I persevered…” he concluded.

Published on October 20, 2025.