Priyank Panchal, a key figure in Gujarat’s cricketing success, has retired after a 17-year career. At 35, Panchal departs as Gujarat’s second-highest run-scorer in first-class cricket, just 19 runs behind Parthiv Patel’s 7,011. His final appearance was during the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, where he notched two centuries, including a standout 148 against Kerala in the semi-final.
Throughout his career, Panchal amassed 23 centuries, more than any other Gujarat player, with 8,856 runs over 127 first-class matches. Additionally, he played in 97 List A games and participated in 59 T20 matches. Panchal’s career began in the 2007-08 season, and alongside Parthiv Patel, he was instrumental in elevating Gujarat from an average team to one that clinched multiple titles. They secured the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in 2014-15, the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2015-16, and the Ranji Trophy in 2016-17.
Panchal’s most notable season was the 2016-17 Ranji Trophy, where he scored 1,310 runs, including a remarkable 314 against Punjab. This tally was second only to VVS Laxman’s record of 1,415 runs in a single Ranji season. His performance during this period earned him a spot in the India A squad, which he captained. Though consistently considered for the national Test side, his closest call came in 2021-22 when he was named as Rohit Sharma’s replacement for the South Africa tour.
Reflecting on his time in cricket, Panchal noted, “It’s been an incredible journey. I’ve lived my dream and had the privilege to play the game I love. I’m grateful for the support of my teammates and coaches.”
Shashank Kishore is a senior correspondent at ESPNcricinfo.
