The last Test series saw two senior players going out of the international cricket arena forever. But one was celebrated by fans all over the world, and the other went out quietly. It was as though this man never contributed to the Indian team.
Why were the two retirement announcements so different?
Both Sourav Ganguly and Anil Kumble played more than fifteen years of international cricket. Both got the chance to lead the Indian teams to victory, too.
But when it came to Ganguly, his retirement was a public affair. From the local clubs in India, to the special functions organized by the fans, to the BCCI and ICC, to the parliament, everywhere it was Ganguly only.
But how much farewell did Kumble get in return for his more than eighteen years of service?
Of course, there was a press conference, where he announced that there was no external pressure on him. He had just had enough and wanted to retire. He told how he will now pursue photography and later build an academy for cricket.
The fact that Ganguly has a huge following to support him – locally as well as internationally – is the topmost reason why his retirement was publicized this much. He had a charisma that was gained not only by playing cricket, but by indulging in controversies, too. He remained in news even if it was not in the right season.
On the other hand, Kumble preferred to spend more time with people close to him when he was not playing.
Interviews and photo-shoots were not his cup of tea. He was not very interested in endorsements, either.
Cmpared to the other team players, his appeal was limited to playing cricket only, while others got ample opportunity to procure more attention by way of press releases, endorsements, and public appearances.
The result? A silent walk alone towards the sunset!
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