Dwayne Bravo’s career cut short due to injury, retires before time

Dwayne Bravo has played his last match in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after suffering a groin injury during Trinbago Knight Riders’ clash against St Lucia Kings in Tarouba. The TKR all-rounder, who had planned to retire at the end of CPL 2024, was forced to exit the tournament earlier than expected after being injured while attempting to catch St Lucia’s captain, Faf du Plessis.

Bravo left the field immediately after the injury and didn’t bowl in what became his final CPL game. Despite the setback, he bravely returned to bat at No.11 but faced only one ball before retiring hurt. Emotions ran high as Bravo, a key figure in T20 cricket, held back tears while exiting the field.

TKR captain Kieron Pollard paid tribute to his longtime teammate, praising Bravo’s charismatic presence and dedication to the game. Pollard thanked him for his invaluable contributions to cricket in Trinidad & Tobago and the world at large.

“When he pulled up [injured], it looked pretty serious. Obviously him coming to bat [at No.11] is not just to win the game, but to know the extent of the injury. We’re not sure if this is going to be the end for him but overall from the team perspective, we just want to tell him thank you very much for all that he has done for cricket, for Trinidad & Tobago for the wider world.

He’s been a charismatic person and has been inspiring throughout and just want to tell him thank you. He’s not in a good space right now but obviously, he’s given everything that he has to cricket and cricket has rewarded him as well.”

Bravo’s injury ruled him out of the upcoming CPL playoffs, marking a sudden end to his storied career in the league. Having won five CPL titles, including three with TKR and two others, Bravo leaves behind an enduring legacy.

St Lucia Kings’ captain, Faf du Plessis, shared an emotional embrace with Bravo after the injury. Du Plessis, who had close ties with Bravo through their time at Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, expressed his sadness over Bravo’s premature exit, calling him a remarkable player who deserved a proper farewell.

As TKR gear up for the playoffs, Pollard and the team face concerns about their bowling depth following injuries to Bravo, Sunil Narine, and Andre Russell.