Mar 21, 2012

Kohli should take No: 3 slot: Sourav Ganguly

India's new batting super star Virat Kohli, who has hit three centuries in his last 4 innings, is the ideal batsman to fill in the No: 3 spot in Test cricket left by Rahul Dravid, former captain Sourav Ganguly has said.

Rahul Dravid recently retired from International cricket.

Talking on the sidelines of the launch of a documentary on his cricketing career, 'The Warrior Prince', Ganguly said Kohli is the next big thing to have happened to Indian cricket.

Talking about Kohli's blistering 148-ball 183 in their record win over Pakistan in Asian cup, Ganguly said, "He is the next big thing in Indian cricket. I've never seen a better one-day cricket innings in my 22 years career. I hope he fills up the place of the champion Rahul Dravid at No 3," Ganguly said.

Ganguly also congratulated Sachin Tendulkar for completing 100 international centuries.

"I had always said it was a matter of time. It's a colossal achievement. I congratulate Sachin. I only sent a text message."

Mar 10, 2012

Rahul Dravid Announced his Retirement

Rahul Dravid, “The Wall” of Indian cricket team has announced his retirement from all forms of the game with immediate effect. He will however honor his contractual obligations with the Rajasthan Royals in the 5th season of the IPL 2012.

Rahul DravidThe stylish Indian No. 3 batsman announced his decision at a crowded press conference in the presence of the BCCI president Mr. N Srinivasan and the President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) as well as one of his former Skipper Anil Kumble.

Dravid used the occasion to thank all his coaches, his family, friends and well-wishers for all the support and encouragement he received throughout his career.

"I hereby announce my retirement from International cricket and domestic as well. It has been 16 years since I started playing. I have many people to thank. My junior coaches at Bangalore have inculcated me a powerful love of the game which has always stayed with me."

"In the Indian team I have been fortunate to have been part of an era where we won home and away". I found support and encouragement from my parents and brother. My wife Vijetha has been a single parent as I travelled all over."

"I have failed at times, but have not stopped trying. I leave with sadness and pride".

Rahul Dravid walked into the press conference at around 12:30 pm IST and was accompanied by his wife, Vijetha as well as his two sons, Samit and Anvay.