Shannon Gabriel retires from international cricket

West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing down the curtains on a 12-year career during which he played 86 international games.

"During the past 12 years, I have dedicated myself to playing international cricket for the West Indies," the 36-year-old wrote on his Instagram page. "Playing this beloved game at the highest level has brought me immense joy, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end."

Fifty-nine of Gabriel's 86 appearances for the West Indies came in the Test format, where he was at his best. He made his Test debut in the Lord's Test of 2012 and went on to become a vital member of the team's pace attack for the best part of the next decade, taking 166 wickets at an average of 32.21. This included six five-wicket hauls as well as the fourth-best match figures - 13 for 121 - for a West Indian, which he took against Sri Lanka in June 2018. He played his last Test against India at Port of Spain last year.

"I would like to express my gratitude to God for the numerous blessings and the opportunities my family and I have received during my time playing for the West Indies," Gabriel wrote. "Secondly, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Cricket West Indies administrators, coaches, and staff members. Words cannot adequately convey the appreciation I have for your hard work and support over the years. Last but not least, I am grateful to my teammates and all those who have stood by me and supported me along the way. You have made my journey to the top truly special.

"Moving forward, my plan is to continue representing my country [Trinidad and Tobago], club, and franchise teams around the world with the same love and passion I have shown throughout my career."

Beyond the highs as a tall, strapping archetypal West Indian quick, Gabriel also had his share of lows. He was infamously bowled by Yasir Shah attempting a slog sweep with just seven balls left to play out to save the Dominica Test of 2017 against Pakistan. Gabriel also earned himself a ban from four ODIs in 2019 for using a homophobic slur during a verbal exchange with Joe Root in St Lucia.