Hard to say good bye!

This post is to pay tribute to these two gentlemen, who have called it ‘quits’ in the recently concluded test series against Australia. It’s pretty heartening to see both of them finishing on a high, unlike other greats of the game like Kapil Dev, Allan Donald, etc., I remember watching Ganguly’s debut in which he made 131 at Lords and fortunately I was there, witnessing his final innings as well.

It was indeed an emotional moment for cricket fans like me and its really painful to think that we don’t get to see both these great players in action, performing for India anymore.

Anil Kumble has been a player who has lived as an example for dedication, commitment and hard work. We’ve seen him bowl with a broken jaw, with a torn finger and what not? I think he is one player, apart from Sachin Tendulkar who has not been dropped from the side throughout his career due to performance issues. A thorough professional, who has served India for 18 years now and got the honor of captaining the side. Though it was a bit late, he thoroughly deserved to hold that honor. One of my friends is fortunate enough to be in touch with the legendary leggie and on the eve of his retirement, he had sent an email to Kumble, wishing him and thanking him for his services to Indian cricket. Surprisingly, he got a reply from the man himself, thanking him for his support and wishes. That sums up his character as a human being.

My "Jumbo" moment : Though there are so many, I would like to mention his 'perfect ten' against Pakistan as my favourite Jumbo moment.

Sourav “DADA” Ganguly – The man who changed the face of Indian cricket. There can be no second opinions on the above statement. He was the one, who taught Indian cricket the aggressive, attacking approach which has never been there for so many years. He brought in dynamism to the side, encouraged young breed of cricketers and has been an architect for the Indian team which made it till the finals of the 2003 World Cup. It’s good to see Dhoni inheriting the fire from Dada. We hope that he can finish the job of lifting the world cup, which Dada left undone.

The fantabulous opening partnerships he shared with Sachin, his elegant strokes through the offside, the way he takes the attack to the spinners, his ability to pierce the offside field to find the gaps, the prince-like charm when he is calm and the most aggressive part of him when he celebrates a wicket and more than anything, his leadership qualities - We miss all of them!

It has been a fascinating career like a roller coaster ride. So many turns, twists, highs and lows but nevertheless one has to admit that Dada has already found a place in the “all-time” greats list, who served Indian cricket.

My "Dada" moment : Final match of the Natwest Series, when Sourav took off his shirt and waved it in the air, after an emphatic victory against England. That moment rejuvenated the spirit of cricket in me.

Do share your favourite Jumbo moments and Dada moments as well....

Hats off to both of them!