Veteran Gujarat batsman Priyank Panchal, one of the most successful and consistent players in Indian domestic cricket over the past decade and a half, retired from all three forms of the game on May 26, 2025. His retirement marks the end of an era for Gujarat cricket and for Indian domestic cricket’s unsung heroes.
A Career Built on Consistency by Priyank Panchal
Priyank Panchal debuted in 2008 as an teenager and then played for Gujarat in 127 first-class matches, accumulating a phenomenal 8,856 runs at 45.18. His count includes 29 centuries and 34 fifties records matched by many international cricketers. In List A cricket, he had another 3,672 runs in 97 matches at 40.80, plus 1,522 runs in 59 T20s at 28.71.
What set Panchal apart was not only his scores but his capacity to perform when the team needed him. He played as a technically sound right-handed opener who could tire bowlers, play the long game, and stabilize chases. His style was old-school but effectual, particularly in the red-ball game.
The 2016–17 Ranji Trophy: A Career-Defining Season
Panchal’s crowning moment arrived in the 2016–17 Ranji Trophy season, when he led the run charts with 1,310 runs a record by any batter that season. This comprised his gargantuan 314* against Punjab, becoming the first Gujarat player to score a triple century in first-class cricket. At the time, this was second-best to VVS Laxman’s record of 1,415 runs, the highest in a single Ranji season. Under his captaincy and batting skills, Gujarat won their first-ever Ranji Trophy title that year. He was also a member of the Gujarat title-winning sides in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (2015–16) and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (2012–13 & 2013–14).
India A Captaincy and the Missed India Cap
Although he never played for the Indian national team, Panchal was a mainstay for India A and even led the side in several series, including tours of South Africa, England, and Sri Lanka. He frequently opened the batting with young guns such as Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad many of whom have subsequently played for India.
He was closest to a Test debut in December 2021 when he was included as a cover for injured Rohit Sharma for the tour of South Africa, He didn’t receive a game. That close call is one of Indian cricket’s what-could-have-beens.
Emotional Goodbye of Priyank Panchal
In his retirement letter, Panchal gave sincere thanks to his coaches, fellow players, and particularly his late father, whom he referred to as his “first coach and strongest pillar.” “It’s an emotional moment… It’s a moment which fills me with a lot of gratitude,” he wrote.
He also posted on social media about leaving, saying, “Over and out. Onto greener pastures now.”
Over and out. Onto greener pastures now. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/5uMiZVprql
— Priyank Panchal (@PKpanchal09) May 26, 2025
Legacy of a Domestic Giant
Though Panchal never represented India, his contribution to Indian cricket cannot be disputed. He was a reliable top-order batsman, a keen leader, and a guide to several young cricketers. His story is a testament that greatness in cricket is not just measured by international outings but also by influence, longevity, and leadership.
Priyank Panchal retired not with remorse but pride as one of Indian cricket’s greatest domestic legends.
