Kolla Sumanth calls time on career

Hyderabad: Wicketkeeper-batsman Kolla Sumanth, who had represented Hyderabad in 37 first-class matches, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket to focus on coaching, here on Friday. Sumanth, who became a full time coach after quitting his job in the Central Excise last year, is currently at Cricket Beyond in Marredpally, founded by former India coaches Ravi Shastri, R Sridhar and B Arun. The 31-year-old Sumanth made a promising start to his career by scoring 69 on his debut against former champions Mumbai at home in November 2012. His lone Ranji century came against Kerala when he hit an unbeaten 111 to help Hyderabad score a crucial six-wicket win in January 2020.Sumanth, who hails from Ramagundam, scored 1453 runs with an average of 27.41 and took 109 catches and effected six stumpings. He had also played in 34 List A matches (785 runs; 43 catches and 5 stumpings) ) and 26 T20 matches (252 runs; 24 catches and 5 stumpings). Speaking to TOI after announcing his retirement on Friday, Sumanth said, “It was a great journey. Cricket has taught me life. I have learnt a lot through the game. Though there were a few unfulfilled dreams, I have no regrets. I always gave my full for the team whenever I had played,” he said.Sumanth has played his last Ranji match against former champions Vidarbha at home in February 2020. He also worked as an assistant coach for Sharjah Warriors in the International League T20 in January this year.
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