On August 3, 2023, Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary on Thursday announced retirement from all forms of cricket. The 37-year-old veteran, hailing from West Bengal, had an illustrious career in domestic cricket and made notable appearances in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Despite facing challenges and being overlooked on the international stage, Tiwary’s dedication and talent shone through in his performances for Bengal.
Manoj Tiwary’s cricketing journey started in the domestic circuit, representing Bengal in various formats. His skills with the bat were evident as he became one of Bengal’s leading run-scorers in the prestigious Ranji Trophy, showcasing his consistency and determination. Throughout his career, Tiwary remained a pillar of strength for Bengal’s cricket team, leading them in the Ranji Trophy and helping them reach the final.
He left an indelible mark in the 2018–19 Vijay Hazare Trophy by amassing 366 runs in nine matches, proving his prowess as a versatile middle-order batsman. Moreover, Tiwary’s achievements included a remarkable fifth double-century in first-class cricket in November 2018 and his maiden triple-century in January 2020, solidifying his position as one of the best domestic cricketers in India.
Manoj Tiwary’s international career was riddled with ups and downs. He debuted for India in the 2007–08 Commonwealth Bank Series against Australia. However, despite displaying immense talent, his appearances for the national team were sporadic, and he struggled to cement his place in the playing XI.
A notable highlight of his international career was his maiden ODI century scored against West Indies in the 5th ODI during the 2011 West Indies tour. However, seeing him relegated to the reserves for 14 successive matches after this remarkable feat was disheartening. Tiwary’s T20 International career followed a similar pattern, with him often being selected but seldom getting opportunities to play.
In his retirement announcement on Instagram, Manoj Tiwary expressed his gratitude towards cricket, which had been an integral part of his life. He acknowledged that cricket had provided him with everything he had never dreamt of, especially during personal challenges. He thanked his coach, Manabendra Ghosh, who played a fatherly role in his cricketing journey, guiding him towards success.
“Goodbye to the game of cricket. This game has given me everything; I mean every single thing which I had never dreamt of,starting from the times when my life was challenged by different forms of difficulties. Will ever be grateful to this game and to the GOD, who has always been on my side throughout. Taking this opportunity to convey my sincere gratitude to the people who all have played a part in my cricketing journey. Thank you to all my coaches, starting from my childhood till last year, who all have played a part in my cricketing achievements. Manabendra Ghosh, my father figure like coach, has been the pillar in the cricketing journey. If he had not been there, then I would have not reached anywhere in the cricketing circle. Thank u, Sir, and wish u a speedy recovery, as your health is not keeping well. Thank you to my Dad and Mom; they both had never put pressure on me to focus on my studies. Rather they encouraged me to continue in cricket.” Tiwary wrote on his Instagram.
Tiwary also acknowledged the unwavering support of his wife, Susmita Roy, who stood by him throughout his career. Moreover, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to his parents, who never pressured him to focus on academics but encouraged him to pursue his passion for cricket.
Manoj wrote, “Big thank you to my wife, Susmita Roy, who has always been on my side from the time she came into my life. Without her constant support, I would not have made it to the point where I’m today in life. And to all my teammates, past and present and also to the cricket association of bengal, and all the members of the associations who all have played a role in my journey. And how can I not mention the cricketing admirers who all have wished me through my ups and downs and made me a cricketing figure in today’s world? A big thank u from the bottom of my heart.”
Beyond cricket, Manoj Tiwary embarked on a new journey in politics. In 2021, he joined the All India Trinamool Congress political party and subsequently secured a seat in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly. Serving as the Sports Minister of Bengal, Tiwary continued to contribute to sports development in the state, showcasing his commitment to the welfare of his fellow citizens.
