West Indies fast bowler Shannon Gabriel has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a 12-year career that saw him become one of the most feared pace bowlers in the Caribbean. Gabriel made the announcement on Instagram on Wednesday, expressing his gratitude for the opportunities and experiences he gained while representing the West Indies on the global stage.

“During the past 12 years I have dedicated myself to playing international cricket for the West Indies,” Gabriel wrote. “Playing this beloved game at the highest level has brought me immense joy, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Today, I am announcing my retirement from international cricket.”

In his heartfelt message, Gabriel thanked God for the blessings he and his family received during his time playing for the West Indies. He also extended his appreciation to Cricket West Indies administrators, coaches, and staff members for their hard work and support over the years.

“Words cannot adequately convey the appreciation I have for your hard work and support,” he said. “Last but not least, I am grateful to my teammates and all those who have stood by me and supported me along the way. You have made my journey to the top truly special.”

Although retiring from international cricket, Gabriel plans to continue representing his country, club, and franchise teams around the world with the same passion he has shown throughout his career.

Gabriel, hailing from Trinidad and Tobago, first garnered attention as part of the inaugural batch of players at the West Indies Cricket Board’s high-performance center in 2010. His early performances drew comparisons to a young Ian Bishop, and he quickly became a key figure in Trinidad & Tobago’s first-class attack. He won selection for the Champions League T20 in 2011 and claimed a maiden five-wicket haul against Barbados in the semi-final of the regional four-day competition in April 2012.

Gabriel’s Test debut came later that year during the West Indies’ tour of England. He made an immediate impact at Lord’s, taking four wickets, but a back injury cut his tour short. Despite the setback, Gabriel became a regular in the West Indies side, known for his role as a muscular enforcer. Some of his most memorable performances include a six-wicket haul against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi in 2016 and a remarkable 9 for 92 in Bridgetown in 2017, which helped level the series for the West Indies.

Gabriel’s finest hour came in 2018 when he took 13 wickets against Sri Lanka in Gros Islet, though the match ended in a draw. However, his career was also marked by moments of frustration, including an infamous dismissal in Roseau in 2017 when, trying to save the game and the series against Pakistan, he swung wildly at a delivery, handing the match to Pakistan.

Over his 59-Test career, Gabriel took 166 wickets at an average of 32.21 and an economy rate of 3.42. He also played 25 One Day Internationals, claiming 33 wickets. He made his Test debut in May 2012 against England and last represented the West Indies in July 2023 against India.

 As Shannon Gabriel steps away from international cricket, his contributions to West Indies cricket will be remembered for his fiery pace, his ability to break partnerships, and his unwavering commitment to the team.