Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) spinner Iqbal Abdullah announced his retirement from all forms of competitive cricket on Friday.

Mumbai left-arm spinner Iqbal Abdulla has announced his retirement from cricket at the age of 33. Abdulla was part of India's victorious 2008 Under-19 World Cup.

During his first-class career, Abdulla proved his mettle by taking an impressive 220 wickets at an average of 29.17. He also made valuable contributions with the bat, scoring 2641 runs at an average of 32.20. In List A matches, Abdulla took 131 wickets at an average of 27.47 and scored 1196 runs at an average of 20.98. In the fast-paced world of T20 cricket, he impressed with 86 wickets at an average of 27.33 and contributed 426 runs at an average of 17.04.

Abdulla represented various teams in the Indian Premier League (IPL) including the Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals and Royal Challengers Bangalore. During his time at Royal Challengers Bangalore, he played under the leadership of Virat Kohli. Abdulla played a crucial role in Mumbai's Ranji Trophy-winning teams in the 2009–10, 2012–13 and 2015–16 seasons. He also represented Mizoram, Sikkim, Kerala and Uttarakhand in domestic cricket.

One of the highlights of Abdulla's career was his memorable innings of 33 innings in which he lost 25 balls and an unbeaten 92-run partnership with AB de Villiers in the 2016 IPL playoff match. This performance helped Royal Challengers Bangalore to a thrilling victory over the Gujarat Lions.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recognized Abdulla's talents by naming him the 'Best All-Rounder' for the 2011-12 domestic season and awarding him the title of 'Rising Cricketer' in the 2011 IPL. He was also a key figure in the India A touring teams and was honored as Man of the Series during India A's tour of England in 2011.

Expressing his gratitude, Abdulla told, "I leave this game after a successful innings, happy with what I have achieved." He thanked the BCCI, Mumbai Cricket Association and everyone who supported him throughout his remarkable career . Abdulla remains open to the possibility of playing in foreign T20 leagues, subject to BCCI approval.