By A Special Correspondent
Mumbai, April 1, 2003
In what appears to be a clear bombshell of epic proportions, India’s superstar and the world’s greatest batsman Sachin Tendulkar has apparently hinted at an early retirement. If inside sources are to be believed, Sachin is contemplating calling it quits after the trip to Australia in November-December later this year.
Having achieved outstanding success and almost unbeatable records both in Tests and One Day Internationals, and recently anointed as the Player of the Tournament in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2003, there are few pinnacles left to achieve for this inmitable genius.
Albeit the reasons for Sachin’s dramatic, sudden and unquestionably shocking decision are not yet crystal clear, niggling injuries, over-exposure, continuous travel and handling truckloads of national pressure, have clearly impacted the master blaster in shortening his illustrious and magnificent career.
Sachin is expected to hold a Press Conference at the Taj on the coming Thursday, April 3, 2003, to formally announce the same, much in advance, so as to communicate the earnestness and unflagging determination to go ahead with his plan.
A close friend and a former player who was consulted by Sachin, stated that “He shall fulfill all his contractual and commercial obligations, and all his sponsors will have sufficient elbow room to maximize value on Sachin’s incredible popularity.”
He also added, “Sachin will continue to break several records, and it is only appropriate, that he shall play his last Test/ODI against Australia and avenge India’s defeat in the World Cup finals.”
When contacted, Sourav Ganguly said, “No comments ! I will only believe it when Sachin calls me and tells me so personally. In any case, Sachin knows what is best for him and the country.”
