Almost 12 years after he last played for the Indian team in which he stood out as much for his acrobatic fielding as well as for his effective middle-order batting, Mohammad Kaif announced his retirement from all forms of competitive cricket. The 37-year-old played 13 Tests and 125 ODIs for India and will always be remembered for his match-winning knock of 87 at the Lord's during the epic Natwest Trophy final in 2002. Along with Yuvraj Singh, Kaif was among the stars to emerge from the U-19 India stable after leading the U-19 team to a maiden Junior World Cup triumph in 2000.
Kaif last played first class cricket for Chattisgarh. "I am retiring today as it's been 16 years since the historic NatWest Trophy win in which I was glad to play my part, and I'd like to remember that as I bow out," he wrote. "I am grateful for the opportunity to have worn the India cap, and to have gone on to play 125 ODIs and 13 Tests for India, and for several other moments." Kaif will always be remembered as being one of the finest fielders that India has ever produced. During the five years that he was an India regular, it was his electric reflexes inside the 30 yard circle, especially the cover region, that made him special.
