Re-living the last international matches of cricket's finest
Almost always, the retirement of a much-loved cricketer has initiated massive reactions. Fans have either grieved or been stunned with shock and disbelief to see their favourite player walk off the field. Many reasons have caused them to call an end to their career. Some cited illness as the reason, while for others age was the primary reason.Let’s have a look-back at the last international outings of some of cricket’s finest cricketers. Here is a look at 10 such cricketers who left the international scene, but the world was left asking for more.
#1 Sachin Tendulkar - 74
November 16, 2014: The Little Maestro walked out of his favourite Wankhede Ground to a stadium full of fans who were standing and applauding, his own team forming a Guard of Honour. Every household in India was glued to their television sets, grieving the end of a career that shaped Indian cricket.
Tendulkar played his last international match, also his 200th Test in Mumbai.
Captain M S Dhoni gave the ball to him for the last time, to have a crack at bowling one of his famous googlies. The Master Blaster bowled a couple of overs on the final day of his career amidst roaring applause, bowling both leg-spin and googly on the third day of the second test against the West Indies.
Tendulkar, who had already retired from limited overs internationals, had struck a neat 74 with 12 fours which comprised several of his trademark shots like the straight drive, cover drive and paddle-sweep.
His farewell speech brought tears to the eyes of a nation that worshipped him. As the batting legend thanked everyone, he said, “Time has flown by very quickly, but the memories will remain with me forever, especially the 'Sachin, Sachin’ chant," prompting the crowd to let out the chant once more.