MillenniumPost
Editorial

Those who will call it quits

Age is just a number, they say. But however nefarious such theories are, it is important to praise youth and allow it to prosper. As the cricket World Cup begins, this new season is all set to witness fresh vigour, energy and vivacity as new faces will be seen in action. For the seniors who have played for years together and enriched the game, there are several who have lined up to call it quits after the sporting extravaganza is over. To begin with, India's Mahendra Singh Dhoni will, in all likelihood, announce his retirement after the tournament. Even if he decides to carry on playing ODIs, he is definitely not going to be available for the next World Cup four years later. Therefore, this World Cup is a major show for the 'firefighter' who has always been India's key on-field and off-field strategist. His sixer at the Wankhede in the 2011 World Cup against Sri Lanka will always be hailed as one of the most defining moments of not only Indian cricket but the world in general. Dinesh Karthik is another Indian player who would look to make a mark of his own as the wicket-keeper batsman has not had an opportunity to play a World Cup match ever in his 15-year-old career for his country so far. After going through the Rishabh Pant debacle and edging past him to make a place in the squad, DK would definitely look forward to a memorable finale. 35-year-old veteran South African seamer Dale Steyn will not be available for the next World Cup as he has already expressed his wish to retire. The pacer, who is currently nursing an injury, has a stunning World Cup record and his experience makes him absolutely crucial for Team Proteas. Hashim Amla and South Africa's best-ever wrist spinner Imran Tahir are also likely to bid adieu to the game. Universe boss Chris Gayle and West Indies' second highest run scorer in ODI cricket after Brian Lara, is all set to retire after the 2019 World Cup. The Calypso king will certainly be missed not only for his breathtaking shots but also for his discrete antics. Other names in the West Indian tent who could announce retirement but are not currently in the scheme of things are Darren Sammy, Marlon Samuels and Dwayne Bravo. Pakistan's Shoaib Malik has officially stated that he will call it a day post the 2019 World Cup. Fast bowling icons like Wahab Riaz and Sohail Tanvir are also likely to announce their retirement soon. Unpredictable but unquestionably dynamic Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga will also draw curtains to his limited overs' career after the World Cup. His 43 wickets haul in World Cups is the seventh best ever and in 2019, he will be playing his fourth World Cup after 2007, 2011 and 2015. Other players who are likely to retire include names like Australia's Cameron White, George Bailey, Shaun Marsh; New Zealand's Ross Taylor and England's James Anderson. As the 2019 World Cup commences, we look forward to intense on-field action with a fitting last hurray for these cricketing icons.

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