Subadh Kumar Nayak

Bhubaneswar: Citing underperformance and fitness issues, Odisha cricket player Natraj Behera announced his retirement from all formats of the game on Monday. Behera informed the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) about his retirement through a letter.

"The Odisha Cricket Association had high expectations from me. However, I was unable to perform well for the last several months. Besides, there were fitness issues. Therefore, I announce my retirement from all forms of cricket. I have informed the OCA about my retirement in a letter," said Natraj.

"I wish the young cricketers get opportunities to play and bring laurels for the State. I will do my best for the betterment of the OCA if given any responsibility," he added.

Behera has reportedly scored 3031 runs in 54 first-class matches and it was under his captaincy that East Zone lifted its first Duleep Trophy. With the highest score of 255, he has scored eight centuries and 11 half-centuries during his career.

This apart, he has played 37 List-A matches and 16 T-20 matches and scored 967 and 261 runs respectively.

Earlier on Sunday, former captain of Odisha cricket team Haladhar Das had announced his retirement from all formats of cricket.

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