Dilip Vengsarkar
As told to Devendra Pandey
I’m surprised with the decision of to retire especially because the big England tour is coming up in June. I think he (Virat) should have played against England. It’s a five-match Test series in their backyard, a big series. He could have played the entire series and then called it a day. But he decided not to – and it’s his call.
He had a great, outstanding innings. He evolved as a player after each series and each year, a true match-winner.
and Virat will leave a big void. I’m sure there are players in the team who would like to grab the opportunity in the England tour now because I believe there is quality in the squad. The flip side of the retirements by these two players is that others will get the opportunity to establish themselves. The contribution of Virat and Rohit towards Indian cricket is huge and will remembered for a long time.
I picked both Rohit and Virat in my tenure as a selector. What really impressed me about Virat is his match winning ability, not only scoring hundreds but his desire to play till the end. He looked to finish the game on his own. He raised his hand that I wll do it for the team. That really impressed me. His hunger was more and he wanted to score big.
We gave him the opportunity hoping that he will play for India for a long time. Nobody can predict how long a player will play, or that he will become a star. Everything depends on how disciplined, passionate they are going ahead in their careers.
I was amazed with his ethics and dedication. His mental toughness set him apart, he was more mature at an early age. At the higher level mental toughness decides the future. Mental strength is the difference between good players and legends. He scored everywhere and always ensured that he finished the game by himself.
Now with two modern greats retired, it’s a good chance for those on the bench. India’s bench strength is strong with a good domestic structure but it will be tough call for selectors to find the men who can fill the shoes of Virat and Rohit.
