5th January 2008-a disappointment was waiting to happen for the cricket fans world over.A shocking decision from one of the world's leading wicket taker,one of the best known spearhead of South Africa-Shaun Pollock would be calling it a day.Shaun Pollock's decision to retire from international cricket was indeed a shock,atleast to me.At 34,when there was a lot of fuel left in his tank,this was not the right time for the South African spearhead to retire.
With the likes of Glenn McGrath and Pakistani pace Wasim Akram playing untill the age of 37,this 34 year old had absolutely no reasons to call off.With 393 scalps in ODIs to his credit,Shaun Pollock now stands fourth only behind Wasim Akram(502),Muttiah Muralitharan(457),Waqar Younis(416).And,when it comes to tests,he stands eighth with his wicket tally at 420.
Seven more wickets in ODI's and Shaun would have joined the elite group of Wasim Akram(502&414) & Muttiah Muralitharan(457&718) to become only the third player in history to have taken 400 or more wickets in both forms of the game.
Shaun was a part of that South African team under Hansie Cronje which could defeat any team inbetween 1995-1999.During the period between Apr 1996-Nov 1996 Shaun Pollock was a part of that South African side that had won 11 consecutive ODIs.The man is the said to have drawn inspiration from dad legendary South African cricketer Peter McClean Pollock and uncle Greame Pollock-And to his bad luck,was not the playing XI of the South African team that made history by chasing a world record total of 434 at Johanesburg on 12th march 2006
The man was a favourite bowler of mine admired for his medium pace and accuracy.The man is also the highest wicket taker for South Africa in both forms of the game.The way he ended his fabulous 13 year old career is just awesome-a 5-0 sweep against West Indies,where he hit the winning runs for South Africa in the fifth and final ODI at Durban.Hardly noticed by anyone,this lanky pace bowler joins the elite group of having topped for his team as the highest wicket taker in both forms of the game.The other player in this club include-Wasim Akram(Pak),Anil Kumble(Ind),Courtney Walsh(WI),Mohd Rafique(Ban),Muttiah Muralitharan(SL) and Heath Streak(Zim).
Hmm..if roumurs are to be beleived,this man is likely to play in the upcomming Indian Premier League(IPL) T20 startig this April.The man will be missed by fans world over.You've disappointed me my dear...very bad of you!!Anyway Cheers Polly..have a gr8 day!!!
Related News:
Shaun Pollock bids adieu to international cricket
Shaun Pollock Retires from International Cricket
Player Profile-Shaun Pollock
Related Videos:
Shaun Pollock retires-Press Conference
Shaun Pollock Childish act during 107th Test appearance
Shaun Pollock Last Moments
Shaun Pollock Emotional End
SHAUN POLLOCK FINAL SPEECH
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