Ramesh Powar has represented India in 31 ODIs and two Tests © AFP
New Delhi: Former India off-spinner Ramesh Powar on Tuesday retired from competitive cricket, bringing down curtains on his distinguished 15-year old domestic career. The 37 year old Powar had briefly donned national colours in the early and middle part of last decade, playing 2 Tests and 31 ODIs. Powar took six wickets in two Tests—both against Bangladesh while he was relatively better in shorter format with his fast off breaks yielding 34 scalps. But he was a stalwart for Mumbai as his 442 first class wickets are a testimony. He formed a potent spin attack with Sairaj Bahutule during those years when Mumbai won multiple Ranji Trophies. READ: I wasn’t enjoying playing for Mumbai: Ramesh Powar
Poor fitness and weight problems were impediments towards finding a permanent slot in the team. Also, his best years coincided with presence of Harbhajan Singh. Powar during the end of his career played for Rajasthan and Gujarat as a professional.
“I have tried to be an honest servant of the game that I love most. I would like to be associated with the game in any capacity,” Powar, who will be playing in Masters Champions League, said. READ: Ramesh Powar: A classical off-spinner who did not get the due he deserved
Powar moved from Rajasthan to Gujarat in the 2013-14 season. He said to the The Indian Express “[The] GCA wanted me so that I can help their junior off-spinners. Basically they wanted me to pass my experience to the young players. Gujarat has good young side and they all want to excel in coming season. As a senior player, I will try to help as many bowlers I can. I know lot of players now and Parthiv Patel is also a good friend. So shifting will not be an issue.”