Brad Hogg wants to play until 50
What’s the story?
After signing a new one-year contract with Big Bash League franchise Melbourne Renegades, left-arm wrist spinner Brad Hogg has said that if stays fit there is no reason why he cannot continue playing until the age of 50.
"I just want to play. I don't care where and who wants me, as long as I'm delivering and enjoying it. I want to crack the 50 mark," Hogg was as quoted by the Cricket Australia website.
The Renegades head coach Andrew McDonald also expressed delight with the presence of Hogg and said that he hopes that the veteran will bring a lot of experience and passion to the group.
The details
Hogg said that he feels fit and that there is nothing wrong with his endurance. However, there are issues with his knee since he is 46 and that he needs to be careful while running around.
However, he also expressed confidence when he said that if puts his head into training and pulls up just fine along with the youngsters, he might be perfect for the season.
Also, he said that he wants to train and put in the efforts just like the young players around and that he will never look for the easier route just because of his age.
In case you didn’t know…
Hogg, who is currently doing commentary in the ongoing India-Australia series has spoken about his lofty ambitions in the past and this current contract extension is just an indication of the level of fitness the chinaman bowler has maintained.
He represented the Renegades last season after leaving Perth Scorchers, and played all eight matches for them, taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 7.2.
What’s next?
Hogg's performance for the Renegades might determine his IPL playing chances for the next season. He featured for the Kolkata Knight Riders this season and would hope one of the franchises snaps him up for the next year.
Author’s take
Age should merely be a number and if the player is confident about his ability and fitness, there is no reason why he should not continue playing.