Bravo calls it quits after 14 years
Passionate, enthusiastic and a smile that made players feel comfortable and confident around him, Dwayne Bravo calls it time on his international career which spans over 14 years. Hailing from the rhythmic Santa Cruz in Trinidad, Bravo was an epitome of the expression -courageous.
One of the most beloved international cricketers in India, it is practically his second home along with Chris Gayle, who is still going strong in the cricket circuit.
His personality and flair is unrivalled on the field, an all-rounder who balanced his responsibilities equally and a fantastic fielder.
In a career that spanned across 14 years and 270 international matches, Bravo has scored more than 6000 runs while taking 337 wickets proving to be a genuine all-rounder for his nation. But of late his career has mostly been noticed for piling up impressive performances for T20 leagues all around the world including the Indian Premier League (IPL) where his skills as a shorter-format player blossomed to the fullest.
He played an instrumental role in West Indies winning the ICC World T20 in 2012 and 2016, the only nation to do so twice since it's inception in 2007.
Having missed out in the probable 25-member squad announced by West Indies cricket for the 2019 World Cup, Bravo felt it was the right time to hang up his boots and give way to the next generation.
READ: BRAVO RETIRES FROM INTERNATIONAL CRICKET
But that doesn't stop the Trinidad all-rounder from playing in various T20 leagues around the world. He recently won the 2018 Indian Premier League with Chennai Super Kings, a franchise which was making their way back into the league after serving a two-year suspension.
Here's a look at Dwayne 'The Champion' Bravo's career -
1. Impressive Debut
Bravo made his Test debut for Windies in 2004 against England at Lord's. He had an outstanding series and emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the Tests, claiming 16 wickets an at an average of just over 26.
2. Cricketing Background
Bravo's half-brother Darren Bravo is also an international cricketer. Dwayne is five years older to Darren and unlike his elder brother, Darren is a left-handed batsman. Bravo, is also a distant relative of Windies legend Brian Lara,
3. Rockstar
Bravo's talents extend beyond cricket. He's a musician and has some pretty good moves. Most of the fans have seen him after he takes a wicket as his celebratory moves are quite eye-catching. He has featured in two music videos and made a cameo in a Tamil film as well.
He also recorded the hit song 'Champion' after West Indies won the ICC World T20 in 2016. His lyrics included all the squad members who helped Windies win the coveted trophy.
4. Young Leader
Bravo became the first West Indies player to have captains both the Test and ODI team by the age of 24. In 2013, he was appointed as the permanent captain, replacing Darren Sammy. He was set to lead West Indies in the 2015 World Cup, but he fell off with the West Indies board over payment disputes.
5. A ton against 'Deadly' Australia attack
Scoring a century against one of the most lethal and feared attacking unit in the world, speaks volumes. Bravo scored a century against an Australian attacking unit in their backyard which had the likes of Glenn McGrath, Shane Warne, Brett Lee and Stuart MacGill. He scored an inspiring 113 to help Windies avoid an innings defeat in Hobart back in 2005.
6. Family Man
Bravo has two children - a daughter and son. It was during the World T20 in 2014, the all-rounder changed his jersey number from 47 to 3 because his daughter was born on August 3, son on August 3 and his mother's birthday falls on a 3rd as well.
7. Travelling in Mukesh Ambani's private Jet
It was back in 2008 when Bravo played for Mumbai Indians. Apparently, the all-rounder was selected for the Test squad against Australia in Windies and at the time, he was playing for Mumbai Indians. The all-rounder made it just in time as Mumbai Indians' owner Mukesh Ambani made it possible as for Bravo. He reached just before the 1st Test.
