Former India wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat could soon begin a new chapter in his cricket career. The 32-year-old has been selected for a training camp with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) cricket team. The development has sparked discussions about the possibility of Bharat representing the UAE in international cricket in the future.
However, Bharat will have to wait before becoming eligible to play for the associate nation. According to ICC regulations, a player moving from a full-member country to an associate nation must complete a three-year cooling-off period. Since Bharat’s last international appearance for India came against England in February 2024, he will only be eligible to represent the UAE from February 2027 onwards.
Bharat Eyes Fresh Start After India Career
Bharat announced his retirement from international cricket on June 4. His time with the Indian team was limited, and he often spent long periods on the bench. Whenever opportunities came, he struggled to make a lasting impact.
The Andhra Pradesh cricketer played seven Test matches for India. He scored 221 runs at an average of 20.09. He did not register a single half-century during his international career. Bharat mainly featured when regular wicketkeepers like Rishabh Pant and Ishan Kishan were unavailable.
One of the biggest moments of his career came during the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval. Bharat was part of the Indian side led by Rohit Sharma, but India suffered defeat as Australia lifted the trophy.
His final Test appearance came in Visakhapatnam during India’s home series against England in early 2024. Playing at his home ground made the occasion special, even though it turned out to be his last match for India.
If Bharat eventually represents the UAE, he will become the first cricketer in the 21st century and only the fourth overall to play international cricket for two different countries.
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