Kevin O Brien Odi Retirement

Dublin: Ireland’s star all-rounder Kevin O’Brien, who holds the record for the fastest century in 50-over World Cup history, has announced his retirement from ODI cricket. After playing 15 years, 37-year-old Brian said goodbye to ODI cricket. Kevin O’Brien is known for playing aggressive innings. He ended his ODI career with 3618 runs and 114 wickets.

The right-handed batsman is third in terms of scoring the most runs for Ireland. O’Brien’s specialty was that he played explosive innings against top teams England, India and West Indies. His strike rate of 88.92 is one of the best in the team.

Commenting on his decision, Kevin O’Brien said, “After playing for Ireland for 15 years, I felt it was the right time to retire from ODI cricket. I got the honor of representing my country 153 times and I am taking lifelong memories from here.

Full focus will be on T20 cricket

Kevin O’Brien further said, ‘It was not an easy decision, but given the current conditions, I do not think that I will be able to contribute to the ODI team like before. The hunger and love for the one-day format is no longer the same and when the feeling is not 100 per cent, it is okay to distance. I have had some incredible moments with the team since 2006. Three World Cups, personal success and a great experience traveling around the world with the team.

Kevin O’Brien made it clear that he will now focus on T20 cricket as there are two World Cups to be held in the next 18 months. Note that Kevin O’Brien holds the record for the fastest century in World Cup history. In the 2011 World Cup against England, Kevin O’Brien completed his hundred in just 50 balls.

England batted first and scored 327 runs in 50 overs for the loss of 8 wickets. In reply, Ireland won the match by three wickets with five balls to spare. Kevin O’Brien scored 113 runs in 63 balls with the help of 13 fours and 6 sixes, for which he was adjudged man of the match.