Praveen Kumar, a name synonymous with precise swing bowling in Indian cricket, bid farewell to his illustrious professional career in 2017. Renowned for his craft with the ball, Kumar’s final moments in competitive cricket involved donning the Gujarat Lions’ jersey in the IPL and representing Uttar Pradesh in first-class and List A cricket, marking the conclusion of a memorable chapter. His T20 endeavors ceased in January 2018, closing the doors on his international aspirations, which had faded away back in 2012.
Despite sporadic appearances in media and occasional participations in events like the Legends League Cricket and a T10 tournament, Praveen Kumar’s gradual retreat from the limelight puzzled many considering his exceptional talent and contributions to Indian cricket.
In a candid interview with ‘The Lallantop,’ the former Indian cricketer expressed his discontent at the lack of opportunities post-retirement. He harbored a strong desire to impart his knowledge and experience back into the game, aiming to serve as a coach, mentor, or in any role available. However, these aspirations were met with a stark reality – he wasn’t afforded the chances he had hoped for.
A significant hurdle in his post-cricket journey emerged from the circulation of misinformation regarding his alleged alcohol addiction. Praveen Kumar vehemently defended himself, challenging the allegations by questioning whether he ever indulged in drinking on the field or within the confines of the dressing room. He expressed his frustration that these unfounded accusations became a barrier, preventing him from taking up coaching or mentorship roles in cricket.
The 37-year-old, who represented India across Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is from 2007 to 2012, narrated a distressing phase of his life when he grappled with depression, a consequence of deliberate efforts to tarnish his image. He subtly hinted at a senior Indian cricketer who had allegedly spread negativity about his habits, which adversely impacted his reputation within cricketing circles, further complicating his journey beyond playing.
Praveen Kumar’s career trajectory was a testament to his exceptional skill in swinging the ball, effectively troubling the opposition’s top-order batters. Despite not possessing express pace, his ability to outwit batsmen with his craftiness and mental resilience stood out. His breakthrough came during India’s tour of Australia in 2008, where his pivotal performances with the new ball played a crucial role in India’s victory in the CB series.
Regarded as MS Dhoni’s go-to weapon with the new ball in white-ball cricket, Kumar’s impact in ODIs and T20Is earned him recognition. His success led to a Test debut during India’s West Indies tour in 2011, where he displayed his prowess by claiming 12 wickets in three matches, cementing his spot for the subsequent England tour. Despite India’s dismal performance in that series, Kumar stood tall, securing 15 wickets in three Tests and etching his name on the Lord’s Honours Board with a stellar five-wicket haul, showcasing his batting prowess as well.
Unfortunately, injuries became a recurring theme, disrupting Kumar’s journey and denying him a chance to be part of India’s victorious 2011 World Cup campaign. His international endeavors drew to a close in 2012, primarily due to persistent injury concerns that hindered his consistent participation in the game he loved.
The tale of Praveen Kumar’s career encapsulates not only his skill on the field but also the challenges and setbacks that followed, post-retirement, highlighting the complexities faced by athletes transitioning into new roles within the sport they dedicated their lives to.