Post ICC Cricket World Cup 2015, the cricketing scenario would not be the same again. The “gentleman game” would witness the departure of few endowed cricketers who dominated the scene with their assiduous cricketing acumen, skills and determination for a considerable time. Here is a compilation of few of those cricketers who are most likely to bid goodbye to the game soon after the curtains fall on the ODI showcase event.
Mahender Singh Dhoni
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The man who changed the face of Indian cricket, Mahender Singh Dhoni is now poised to change his engagements in the coming days. Perceived as the most dangerous limited over batsman by most cricket experts, Mahender Singh Dhoni is slated to retire from the 50 over version of the game and have some respite from the constant travelling and load of international cricket.
The Indian captain who has led his team to several glorious victories will pass on the baton to another legend in the making, Virat Kohli. MSD’s composure, affinity for innovation and helicopter shots that are exclusive to him, will be missed.
Kumara Sangakara and Mahela Jayawardene
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This world cup would bring curtains on the bulwarks of Sri Lankan cricket, Kumara Sangakara and Mahela Jayawardene who have been tormenting even the best of bowling attacks since over a decade.
These two have so much in common, both are gentlemen cricketers, determined individuals, former captains, and the time of calling it quits would also be more or less the same. The ornaments of cricket, as Ian Chapel dubbed them, would be remembered for their sublime stroke play, resilience and the mountain of runs they have amassed in their respective careers.
Chris Gayle
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Owing to his ever-inflating list of injuries, growing age and his interest in the shortest format of the game, the 2015 edition will be the swansong for Caribbean legend Chris Gayle. The Jamaican has demolished many reputable bowling attacks not just by the ferocity of his shots but also by the typical Caribbean attitude he endorsed. He, by smashing the first double century in the competition, however, gave something to his fans to cheer about. Chris, the world of cricket would miss your overwhelming antics both, on and off the field.
Shahid Afridi
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Known for his heroics with the ball and bat, Shahid Afridi is one illustrious member of the bandwagon who has expressed desire to hung their boots after the quadrennial event. Serving his team for close to two decades, the Pakistani cricketer has amassed over 8000 ODI runs to go with close to 400 wickets, which is exceptional.
Many prolific performers who have occupied the center stage and entertained us are willing and ready to quit the ODI format after the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 ends.