Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif on Friday (13th July) announced retirement from competitive cricket almost 12 years after he donned the blue jersey.

Mohammad Kaif played 13 Tests and 125 One Day International (ODI) for India and will always be remembered for his match-winning knock of 87 in the final of Natwest Trophy in 2002.

“I’m writing to you today to announce my retirement from all forms of first-class cricket,” Kaif intimated acting president CK Khanna and acting secretary Amitabh Chaudhary in an email, adding, “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”.

“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 added in the email.

Here is what who said on Kaif’s retirement:

Virender Sehwag: Just like timing your catches to perfection, timed the retirement perfectly Mohammad Kaif. 16 years to the day we conquered Lord’s and won the NatWest Trophy. Wish you a very happy and satisfying retired life.

Sachin Tendulkar: You’ve chosen the best day to announce your retirement, Mohammad Kaif. Those memories are still fresh in our minds. May Lord bless you with more and more success, just like the one at Lord’s back in 2002. My best wishes to you always.

Parthiv Patel: Well done bhaisaab on a superb career..always enjoyed ur company on and off the field…wish u even better 2nd innings..Mohammad Kaif.

RP Singh: A great day to hang up your boots as the Indian won the historic NatWest series on this day. It was a pleasure for me and other team mates to play under your captaincy for Uttar Pradesh. Congratulations on a glittering career Mohammad Kaif.

Irfan Pathan: Well done on ur career bhaisaab Mohammad Kaif you were the one who changed the mind set of the fielding in Indian cricket.even though I would have liked u to stay slightly behind on d 30yard circle bT I knew u had d best intention;) Wish you all d luck for ur future endeavours.

Harbhajan Singh: 13-07-02 a new era of Indian power cricket began. 13-07-18 the hero of that game retires. Thanks Mohammad Kaif for being a great friend and a loyal lover of this game which connects us all. Wishing you all the happiness and success in life ahead. Good luck. Bhai shab

Harsha Bhogle: Congratulations, Mohammad Kaif on a career you can be proud of. Gave us many nice moments and will always remember the NatWest final of 2002. Go well, enjoy time with your lovely family, and look forward to working together.