In his 18-year long career, the 35-year-old Patel has played 25 Tests, 38 ODIs, and two T20 Internationals for India. The last match played by him was India against South Africa in Johannesburg in January 2018.

Patel made his debut at the age of 17 for India in Nottingham against England in 2002. He was the youngest wicket-keeper to have played a Test match for India.

Patel wrote on Twitter, ‘Today I announce my retirement from all forms of cricket, and as I bring down the curtains on this 18-year old cricketing journey, I feel heavier with gratitude towards many. The BCCI showed a generous amount of confidence and faith in a 17-year-old boy to play for India.

Patel thanked all the captains under whom he had played. He mentioned former captain and current BCCI president Saurabh Ganguly and said I’m especially indebted to Dada, my first captain, who showed immense faith in me.

He also felt gratitude towards the Gujarat cricket association and mentioned that with every end, comes a new beginning.