ICC World Cup 2019: 5 International cricketing legends to say goodbye after the marquee event
In less than a hundred days from now, the most awaited cricketing event, the ICC World Cup 2019 will commence at the home of cricket ‘England’. As always, top teams will come together and compete against each other for the most invaluable trophy. Without a doubt, the event will be a cricketing extravaganza for fan across the globe.
Along with loads of joy and excitement, this very edition of the mega tournament will also bring along some sadness amongst crickets fans. Like every beautiful thing come to end, the event will bring the curtains down on the most illustrious cricketing careers.
Unfortunately, it will be the very last time the fans will witness the magic of these cricket legends on an international scene however interestingly, some may actually continue to play T20Is. Here is a look at some such players.
#1 Chris Gayle
Just a day before yesterday, the most destructive batsman across any format, the West Indian opener, Chris Gayle announced his retirement from ODIs post the ICC World Cup 2019. In his very usual flamboyance, he stated: “I'm looking to draw the line - or should I say cut the string - let the youngsters have some fun and I can sit back in the party stand."
The 39-years-old Jamaican debuted way back in 1999 against India and with almost two decades of International cricket, he is today one of the most successful batsmen in the West Indies cricketing history. In 284 ODIs till date, the free-stroking batsman has amassed 9727 runs, just behind by another legend Brian Lara by 678 runs, to become the highest run-getter for West Indies.
Also, he is the only West Indian to score a double century in an ODI (215 against Zimbabwe). In the past few years, the well-built player has not been a regular feature in ODIs and has instead joined various T20 leagues around the world due to differences with cricket board. However, he is certain to play the ICC World Cup and it will be a delight to watch him play once again one very last time.
Without a doubt, not just the West Indies but the world cricket will miss him on the international arena (ODIs) however it appears that he will continue to play the shortest format (T2OIs). If lucky, we may get to witness his cricketing excellence in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2020.