With its intense pace and high-stress circumstances, the world of T20 International cricket has witnessed numerous careers soar and, occasionally, crash. These incidents, which range from unanticipated controversies to unanticipated setbacks, demonstrate the harsh side of T20 International cricket.
Promising cricketers including Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, Lasith Malinga and many others whose careers took unexpected turns were stark reminders that in Twenty20 International Cricket, things can change drastically in an instant. Well, these tales of tenacity, failure, and the constant turbulence certainly highlight the uncertainty of T20 international cricket.
In this article we will take a look at the top six most unexpected moments in the history of T20 international cricket that ruined players’ soaring international cricketing careers.
Top 6 Most Unexpected Moments In T20 International Cricket That Ruined Cricketers
Lasith Malinga dropped out from Sri Lanka’s T20I squad in 2012
The renowned fast bowler from Sri Lanka, Lasith Malinga, witnessed one of the most unexpected and shocking downfalls in T20 international cricket. A string of injuries kept him out of the Sri Lanka T20I team in 2012, raising speculation about his stability as an international cricketer.
However, Malinga’s victorious comeback in 2013 demonstrated his bowling prowess. Eventually, Malinga emerged as one of the most recognizable T20 bowlers. Regardless, Malinga made the decision to retire from international cricket in 2021, capping an incredible career that included both devastating comebacks and injury setbacks and leaving a lasting legacy in the world of T20 international cricket.
Yuvraj Singh’s battle with cancer in 2011
When he received a cancer diagnosis in 2011, one of the most prominent Indian cricket players, Yuvraj Singh, experienced a personal breakdown. Yuvraj Singh was absent from T20 international cricket for a full year as he was undergoing chemotherapy in Boston and Indianapolis.
After his courageous recovery, Yuvraj Singh returned to the team in 2012, demonstrating his fearless approach towards life and inspiring others with his battle against cancer. Yuvraj Singh eventually retired from T20 international cricket in 2019, despite a remarkable comeback.
Chris Gayle banned for his harsh WICB criticism in 2012
The explosive T20 batsman Chris Gayle of the West Indies had a difficult time during his T20 international career. Gayle was suspended for three months from the West Indies Twenty20 International team in 2012 for his outspoken criticism of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB).
Gayle’s 2013 comeback highlighted a string of spectacular innings and unforgettable moments that fixed his place among the format’s greatest players. However, in 2019, Gayle made the decision to retire from playing cricket internationally, signaling the end of a golden era.
Rohit Sharma’s serious hamstring pull in 2022
The Indian opener and skipper, Rohit Sharma, faced a difficult time in T20 international cricket. Sharma sustained a hamstring injury during the 2021 T20I World Cup, which prevented him from playing in the pivotal championship games and the home series against New Zealand that followed.
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Although many anticipated his return in 2022, setbacks continued after Rohit Sharma sustained another injury in March. Due to this injury, Rohit Sharma was unable to play in the first few matches of the Indian Premier League, highlighting how even the most seasoned players can be negatively impacted by the demands of modern-day cricket.
Naseem Shah ruled out of the T20 World Cup in 2023
Pakistan national cricket team suffered a major blow in the run-up to the ICC World Cup 2023 when their star pacer, Naseem Shah, had to be ruled out. Naseem’s injury first became apparent during the Asia Cup 2023, but as the competition went on, it got worse and kept Naseem out of significant games. Naseem Shah’s absence during the Asia Cup 2023 undoubtedly proved to be a nightmare for Pakistan’s national cricket team throughout the tournament.
Axar Patel ruled out from the T20 World Cup in 2023
The spin all-rounder for India, Axar Patel, had to deal with a difficult turn of events during the Asia Cup 2023. After sustaining a brutal quadricep injury during the group match against Sri Lanka, there was serious concern about Patel’s recovery.
Unfortunately, Patel was unable to make it in time for the World Cup, despite early reports suggesting he might recover in time for the warm-up matches. Subsequently, the Indian management had to make the difficult choice to replace Patel with Ravichandran Ashwin for the entire 2023 T20 World Cup tournament.
