The last dignified retirement was Sunil Gavaskar’s two decades ago. Ravi Shastri too went on his terms once his media career was ready. Gavaskar called up a few journalists during a Test in Bangalore, thanked them for their support and then broke the news. He made 96 in his last Test on a turner, one of his finest innings. He finished with 188 at Lord’s, his last first-class innings. Strangely, not one of his 34 Test match hundreds was made at Lord’s.

Since then, Kapil Dev went on for too long, a pathetic figure with little sympathy in Mohammad Azharuddin’s team. Azharuddin himself stopped tantalisingly at Test No. 99, having extended the use of his supple wrists to counting tainted money. Javagal Srinath couldn’t work out a happy ending to a successful career, and neither could Dilip Vengsarkar. The lesser performers, by definition, would not have been able to anyway.

In the early part of his career, I had written Ganguly had the potential to finish as the country’s finest left-hand batsman. When we met later, he suggested, half-jokingly, that he was aiming higher: how about the best-ever, left or right? But already his contemporaries Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid had begun to pull ahead, and it was not even an academic possibility. Yet, Ganguly had one thing neither of the other two had - a wide-angled approach to captaincy. He enjoyed the challenge, and made up for tactical shortcomings with man-management not seen since the days of Tiger Pataudi.

Like Tiger, he initiated a self-confidence movement in the team. He got the players to believe in themselves, supported the youngsters, and showed when required he could play politics with the best of them. When results mattered, he had the results. His was one of the most interesting phases of Indian cricket, as he led the team to victories abroad, in England, in the West Indies, in Australia.

The manner of Ganguly’s farewell is bound to lead to all manner of speculation. He was the most vulnerable of the five seniors – Anil Kumble, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman being the others. Will he be dropped if he fails in the first Test against Australia, or the first two? Now that he is quitting, would it not make sense to pick his replacement for the last two Tests and thus prepare the new man for the series against England and Pakistan? Or will Ganguly travel around the country, playing all four tests no matter what, and have a series of farewells like an ageing rock star?

This is a new situation for Indian cricket. There will be mourning in Kolkata, but no effigy-burning because there is no one to blame. It must be very frustrating for Ganguly’s fans. Yet, their hero has played 109 Tests, led in 49 and finishes as India’s most successful captain. It is an impressive record. I suspect posterity will treat Ganguly much better than his contemporaries did.

Well Done Sourav. Go out for the last time not as a doubted batsmen but as a proud captain who gave his countrymen some really unforgettable moments. Indian cricket stands today where it is because of the push you gave it. Go out with your head high. Standing Ovation and kudos for you!

Brilliant piece of work. Without demeaning or defaming Dada, this article should warm up the hearts of every fan of Sourav Ganguly who (according to me!) has quit in his own terms rather than the ever pouncing media analysing and ripping apart the southpaw's technique if he fails. Now if he scores a couple of hundreds and departs, it would be a farewell for all those who speak enchanting words for the juniors to be influxed and that the seniors are fading.
Good work, once again!

cheers

Let me start by saying Ganguly was a great player and good luck to him on his future endeavors. That being stated, let us not forget that it was his snobbery and high handedness in the Indian dressing room that fractured the cohesive unit that was developing. I blame him for the debacle at the world cup in 2007, along with many others.

It is sad to hear that Ganguly is retiring. But he couldn't have timed it better. When he was dropped and then picked again he showed his class and his never say die attitude has always helped him to counter any challenge posed by his opponents or by the media men or men at the helm of affairs. How many times he has given a rousing a start for India along with sachin in one dayers. The fact that they average more than than 50 in each innings is a pointer to their achievements. Not many cricketerd have stayed so long in cricket and richly the Prince of Kolkata deserves all the kudos and accolades at the time of his retirement.It may take long to see the likes of saurav but the roar of Bangal Tiger will certainly be heard for a long time to come.Hats off to Saurav!

Its easier said than done - we will still remember his audacious himalayan sixes against spinners. Not even Yuvraj has that elegance of this left-handed legend. I was a fan but still asked him to step down gracefully as I could not see him hang-in their knowing he was just one bad knock away from being axed & burried. Ganguly - you have nothing to prove to anybody. You will always be remembered if not missed.

Leave the great hero alone. Saurav has always been firey,aggressive and risk prone through out his career and still remains a living hero.I think our team deserves such a character to get a team fire all cylinders. He is an entertainer when he opens the batting and seldom fails as a opener. I think the selectors do not know where to place him to get the best out of him. If I was the chief selector - I will give Saurav the opener slot for the first two tests and Saurav for sure will fire all cylinders. Difficult to understand why he lost his opener slot. Had he opened in one dayers - he would have probably done so well that there would have been no room for the new boys. Let Mr Gambhir and Badri and Suresh Raina and the Rohit Sharma play a few series in the West Indies and SA and lets see if they perform. I am sure they will buckle.

It is sad that Ganguly is retiring, not because he shouldn’t have (I personally felt it was long due), but because it is a sad reminder that all good things eventually come to an end. I have grown up watching these guys (Ganguly, Tendulkar, et al) make their debuts and thrive at their profession bringing us closer to the game while providing some serious entertainment. I am sure the other seniors will soon follow Ganguly’s foot steps and it’ll be sad to see them go but it was good while it lasted. Thanks for the memories.

Dada - served us well. A standing ovation from all.

most indian players, no matter how good they are have no security. partly due to bad man management and partly due to media. ganguly is one of them. without the damocles sword hanging over him, he would have performed even better.

There will be joint-hartals declared by Trinamul and CPM to protest agains dictatorial decisions by BCCI.

All good things have to come to an end. It is good that Dada has decided to hang up. Every body has enjoyed his play, let those memories remain etched, that the images of struggling Dada in Srilanka

great to go dada, bcci should be asahmed of themselfs for not showing respect to a great player

One of the Finest Cricketer of the country.....One of the Best Captain.....I Salute you for Entertaining the People of INDIA through the Quality, Quantity, Aggressive, Never Give up kind of cricket you have Played all these years....Wish Ganguly end's his career on high note against Australia......All the Best for Ganguly...The Prince

Pokiri..

we are proud of you DADA :)

yep..agreed..too often we see our stars or even guys who had a career that made a significant impact to their country and their teammates spend too much of their twilight years hanging on too long.
It is sad for spectators like us who wants to remember these indivuals for their glory days only to see them get humilated by hanging too long and see them lose their aura and lustre.
I am happy that Indian cricket is going this route and it bodes well for it other aging stars that have done a great service for Indian cricket too.
Hats off to the process.

Good article on Ganguly....though I am very disappointed that you have virtually labelled Azhar as a criminal. I don't think it is proper for you to declare something whose final judgement is still sub-judice!

Sandeep Patil after he was not selected announced his retirement that part from SG retiring are the only 2 instances I can recall. Kapil was pathetic his last 100 wickets came over his last 5 years!

Ganguly by announcing his retirement now has in a way ensured that he is included in playing 11 and we go against Oz with only with 4 bowlers. Unless of course Gambhir is sacrificed that may not happen.

History will credit Sourav with creating the new face of Indian cricket...aggressive, confident, exuberant, filled with a steely resolve rarely seen in series abroad. He fought for his team, (case in point Sehwag, Harbhajan, Yuvraj when they first started out) and commanded their respect. And when he did decide to hang his boots, he did it his way. Sachin will still write his swansong, he is a cricketing aberration and there is no point discussing him. He will enthrall us for a couple more years, like a dying light burning brightly. Rahul knows this series is crucial, personally more than anything else. He has set high standards and is a victim of his own success. Laxman and Kumble have traditionally excelled against Australia in India.
For now, let's cherish the Prince's last lap, those wrists caressing the ball through the off-side asking what the fuss is all about. And I am sure we will see him stepping out to the spinners more than he has done in the past.
All hail the PRINCE!!!!

Crisp and clear ! Indeed, Sourav Ganguly's legacy remains his non parochial captaincy. For all his silken off-side strokeplay and timing, his travails against the short ball ( so often overestimated), his under rated accurate seam bowling and increasingly tardy fielding, he was the galvaniser, the enforcer. To acknowledge his captaincy, is to acknowledge he had a nose for talented youngsters, piquing the opponents, political backing, and an unselfish deputy in Dravid. Yet, it also means, he was forever under-rated as a one-day great, and the hope on which Indian cricket rode in the new millennium after icons had fallen, matches were fixed. To do that against public perception(barring Calcutta), a band of selectors always going for his throat, and a man who as a coach, took his greatness for granted,was emphatic. His flaws are his appeal - as prone to injudicious decisions, as inspired brilliance. But make no mistake, for him to finish where he did, he was gifted. In time we'll know ...

There's absolutely no doubt that Ganguly's been pushed to make way for the youngsters.
He's taken the deal where he gets to play the entire Test series, but has to quit after its completion, irrespective of his performance.
Even though people would argue that Dada leaves with dignity...There is a question which must be in everyone's mind right now:

" Whose next? "

Dravid? Kumble? Laxman?

Take your pick..

I dont agree that ganguly is gone at the right time. Right time for a batsman is when he stops making match winning/saving hundreds against best attacks. Ganguly never deserved spot in the middle order since 2001, that is when he should have gone.

i think he knew that the wriring was on the wall after his shabby performance in the last match against the new zealand"A".Better late than never a man whose pride was hurt the most by the BCCI is having the last laugh.He still has a lot of game in him provided he thinks that he is capable.
hope Sachin follows suit and the rest.now as the top 5 are on their way out it is time to look out for the players who can understand the longer duration of the game.

Dada has been the greatest thing to happen to Indian cricket after Sachin. His iron-clad determination and will to fight has been an inspiration in all walks of life for me n many other dada fans. As a test batsman, he more than made up for his shortcomings with his aggression and his will not to lose or give up and keep on fightng till the very end. As a one day batsman he comes only after Sachin and as a captain he has been secnd to none. His aggression and attitude changed and rebuilt the Indian team from a bunch of meek losers to the second best team in the world after the match fixing saga. He always backed the young players, got out the best results from them and inspired others with his performances(like Brisbane,Toronto,Taunton etc.),taught us how to look in the eye of the australians and fight it out.Alone Dada has been responsible to change the face of Indian cricket over the last decade.I am feeling really hollow at this time. Thanks for the memories and we salute you !!

I hope the mourning will not be in Kolkata alone. While there are fanatics in every walk of life, I'd like to believe Sourav Ganguly had qualities enough in him to have followers irrespective of region or language.

I am from Kolkata, but I admire him for the qualities that he brings to the table: he is aggressive, he's passionate about his job, he does not keep failure options in his plans, and he believes in himself enough to take his own game from good to very close to great.

I think we can all learn some very important lessons from this man.

Even though I was never a blatant admirer of the "Bengal Tiger" like many other traditionalists who would express their open admiration for a Dravid or a Laxman than a Ganguly, deep within none could deny the clamor for yet another classic cover drive from the southpaw or a confrontation and in your face aggression against the best in the world which Ganguly displayed on more than the odd occation..there's no doubt the elegant left-hander would leave a strong emotion and even a tear in the eye of the Cricket fan who would watch him grace the international arena for one last time..I think the best tribute that can be given to Saurav is by saying that he's dug out the inherent aggression and the will to win amongst Indian cricketers and Indian cricket fans in the greatest measure after Pataudi and Gavaskar had done so in the 60's and 70's...let's not disgrace the great cricketer by speculating about the selectors' role in Ganguly's retirement but rather hope for a fitting farewell...

Nice article. Saurav Ganguly - good player, great captain. People may have mixed feeling now, but like Tiger Pataudi, he should be/will be remembered with warmth and respect. Good luck SCG.

Very good article.

A few errors though:
1) Gavaskar declared his retirement after the Lords first-class match (June-Jul 1987)and not before India-Pak Bangalore test (Mar 07).

2) Gavaskar made 188 & 0 in his last first-class match at Lords in June-Jul 1987. So, 0 was his last first-class innings and not 188.

I think the most important contribution from ganguly to indiian cricket is he induced self pride, self belief and a will to fight and invested in a bunch of youthful talents.
Not to forget that he can bat too. wonderful one-day player, the best between 1997-200. he reinvented himself as a test batsman in the last 1 1/2 years. The nation salutes you. best of Luck saurav.

Thanks DADA !!! We Will Miss You !!!

I am very disappointed but feeling proud of you The only 'DADA'in History of Cricket. I Salute you.

Ganguly brought aggression, self-beleif and confidence to the team. I wish he would have left sooner after 2001 when his form and average dipped too low, and comeback sooner.

Ganguly was always a better ODI batsman than a test player - apart from the first two test innings and a rare here & there test matches. Sachin should go last - as he has been an ambassador for long time. As long as Kumble is there Dravid will stick along - it would be harsh on Laxman if his head was pulled under the guillotine blade. Kumble cannot leave unless someone else replaces him as captain (certainly not MSD). SCG was the easiest of all options. Interestingly - Ganguly kicked Kumble out of ODI and Kumble returned the favor in Test arena. It will be interesting to see how it panes out.

This is quiet a shock for me as am a big fan of dada.. well he knew what he wanted and he was such an inspiration to me when he burst on to the international scene again in 2006 after being dropped.. being such a grt guy wid a lot of caliber n that never say die attitude he surely inspired many ppl here... if it was not for him all the major young guns lik yuvi,zaheer n dhoni wud'nt have been in da teem.. well i hope he has a grt series ahead and shut the aussies mouth wid his bat and as we've seen against the Board XI side they were quiet vulnerable and we sd cash in on the weakness now... all said and done.. i guess dis is the beginin of the end of the Fab Four n anil kumble... well whatever maybe all these people have made my childhood n teenage quiet memorable wid cricket...

All good things in life has to end!Sourav's announcement ahead of the all important Oz series,signals the end of the road for the Fab4 who have literally mesmerized Cricket fans all round the globe over the past decade.With his head held high, the man of moment has decided to bid International Cricket one final adieu and the best part is that he did this right in the way he played his cricket all along-On his Own terms!Astute Leadership skills may have been the spotlight of his career but no Cricket fan can forget that the sublime field piercing drives on the offside that even made Dravid to comment,"On the Offside there is God and then there is Ganguly".His most significant contribution however has been to take Indian Cricket to the next level,a level at which they could stare at the Opposition and say,we CAN beat you!Whether he can sign off on a high by getting another Test ton against the Aussies only time will tell but being an ardent fan of Cricket I do salute this great cricketer

I really think it is unfair to say that Dada did not deserve a middle order spot since 2001. If someone looks at his heroics post comeback, no one would say that he did not deserve a spot post 2006. He won back his place by scoring tons of runs and sealed his middle order spot in the Indian team till the Sri Lanka series by doing the same.
Having mentioned this, let's focus on the moment. Dada is retiring after this series and given the pressure he was under(implicit and explicit), one would have surely guessed this. Let's not forget that Dada was responsible to a large extent for the transformation of the Indian Cricketing psyche. Even now, he has set a trend which I am sure other seniors will follow.
Dada will not only be remembered but also missed on the cricket field purely because of his grit and fighting spirit(oft underestimated).
Dada is making a dignified exit and as always, he has done something different.
Hope it'z one last hurrah for him and a series win for India.

I am a die hard Sachin fan. I can watch Dravid defend all day. I think VVS is one of the most elegant batter India has ever produced. But I rate Ganguly better than all of them....simply becuase of his mental strength and his belief in himself. Whether it was 1996 or 2006, whether it was Ganguly as a captain or a reluctant opener in ODI's...he proved everyone wrong. He came back twice to the Indian side and on both occasions- the only person who believed that he belonged- was Ganguly himself. Maybe he overstayed as the captain- but he still had a couple of years as a player. I hope he continues to play for Bengal- Indian cricket needs him to groom the younger players. Thanks Dada!

Great Batsmen true legend well congratulations on a great career and good luck in the future. Indian cricket will miss you

It's a good news indeed but he will be remembered as the greatest captain ever captained India. He did his job remarkably as a captain but he failed to live up to the expectations once he became the captain. He took the indian team to the new highs which no one can deny.
I was your die-hard fan until 2001 but not beyond that. I strongly believe that you would have easily scored 10,000 runs in test cricket too if you had concentrated your batting after becoming the captain. I'm sure you've lost your touch in post 2001 era.
I deny the fact that no one can replace Ganguly or Dravid or Kumble. As a matter of fact, when Ganguly and Dravid entered the Indian team, I too thought in the same way as they replaced Sidhu, etc. But in the hindsight, the fared better than Sidhu & co. So Badrinath or Suresh Raina or Rohit Sharma may fare better than Ganguly who knows.

I know Sourav from a very young age. I played cricket with his brother Snehashish. When I use to go their home, he used to always have a great smile for " sirsendu da" From that he made himself one of the greatest cricketer that India has ever produced. I am sorry, but I need to say, the people who are critical about Ganguly, should ask themselves, am I qualified enough to say any thing about Ganguly, does any of the critics know what it takes to score 10000 + runs in One day and 7000+ runs in test matches.. but every Tom Dick and Harry is here to tell Ganguly what he should do and not do. By nature human beings are ungrateful. We forget what he has done for India. No one is perfect, same goes for Ganguly.. but he has been one of the greatest ambassadors of India. I wish him all the best, for today, tomorrow and forever. Thanks for the memories.

No matter what people say, I've had my opinions( both good and bad) about Ganguly but his record as a captain and then as an individual does deserve due credit and merits that he plays all the test in the series and is allowed to give his farewell on all the grounds that we play at.

Just my 2 cents

Well done dada, most successful captain of India , we salute you. Yes you are retiring on high note, after returning back to team last 2 year your test average is 50+ and you were selected as a best Asian ODI player 2007.So tiger is leaving the field like truely royal bengal tiger. whole india is proud of you

Its a great loss to the whole indian cricket. I would say Ganguly aka DADA is responsible for the new breed of indian cricketers. He infused aggression, passion, never say attitude among the team. brought sehwag, saved harbhajans career, kaif, yuvaraj , zaheer khan, irfan pathan, even dhoni.........
huge dissapointment......i would say its goanna be huge loss.....prince of kollkatta.....i would say prince of the indian cricket.......wish u all the best..miss u a lot.....
DADA ur the best and always will be......
cheerss....

DADA...DADA
For the man who could not play the short ball... he stood tall in everything he did. I liked him before... but loved him after his comeback.... I will root for every run he makes this series....

What dada has achieved over his career has always been forgotten over other issues which has propped up during his career. IF INDIAN CRICKET CAN LOOK UP TODAY, IT HAS DADA TO THANK FOR IT. Lets not forget who brought us back from the doldrums of match fixing and made us something better than a bunch of loosers. A supreme leader of men! Dada.. We'll miss those sixes and the fire that you brought to the game by playing the way you did... As Tony Greig once said, this indian team is all about Tendulkar & Ganguly.. Indian cricket and the fans can never thank them enough ... Long live the PRINCE of "CAL'KUTA"

Dada is one of the best Cricketers India has ever seen or will see in due course of time. Like the famous spin quatret of 70s, the 90s and 00s will be remembered for the Fab 5, of which Ganguly will be remembered as a true blue hero. A Leader, A Winner and A Patriotic Indian. I wish he signs off from his farewell series in style and even if he does not, nothing can take away from Ganguly what he has achieved and what he has contributed. I wanted to watch New Delhi Test Match for Sachin Tendulkar, but it will now be for SAURAV GANGULY. I guess Sachin will have to wait. ALL HAIL GANGULY. Rahul DRAVID said about this magnificent man: On the Off Side, first there is GOD and then there is GANGULY.

well done ganguly. he picked the right time to go and tht too with respect. he knows if he didnt say it he would be just left out and never be given a chance to bow out with dignity. finest captain india has ever had. and without doubt one of my fav indian cricketer. as much as i hated his double against pak (im from pak), it was a gorgeous innings and very well deserved one. i personally didnt want him not to have a double like saeed anwar. all the best for the future but before that play few knocks against the aussies so that we'll never forget you. my fav out of the fab 5. well done dadaa.

Just one thing "Thank you DADA".
A well written article too.

BCCI is not like for a player like DADA. great than other seniors. fuck u BCCI, BCCI dont how to give respect to a great cricketer. DADA you are the best in indian cricket ever.

Dada, You could have waited a little longer. Cant get enough of your graceful cover-drives and walloping sixes!

Your Test journey started with England, it could have ended with them.

Good Luck SG

Dada, You are always great.It is very sad that you have decided to call it a day . Anyhow I am very proud that you are the most successful captain india has ever produced.I wish you for a tension free life.

Ganguly gifted "Agression and Courage" to Indian Cricket that it badly needed. His 'never give up' attitude will forever inspire me in my life. And whenever I triumph, which I definitely will, I too will wave my shirt.

He shall be remembered as one of the finest captains. Though he suffered from really bad politics, he has chosen the right time to bid Adieu to Cricket. Have a great series.

"These four Test matches are going to be my last and hopefully we'll go on a winning note"
What the...? Wasn't he only selected for two tests? I can't believe he has bought himself two more tests by using these tactics.
I'm sure fast bowlers all over the world are in mourning at this announcement. Lucky Lee, Clark and Johnson.

Just wish 'Dada' all the very best of what life has to offer. I consider myself privileged to have been a Indian Cricket Lover in the Golden Era of Indian Batting. I think the only mistake 'Dada' did was to recommend Guru Greg for the coach's post. Wish Dada & the Indian Batting tons & tons of run in the coming series against the Kangaroos!

I am very sad that Ganguly is retiring...it was a very good decision though...I hope that people across the country celebrate his retirement instead of being dejected and remember him for a long time for bringing so many memorable victories to indian cricket.I am sure that Kolkata mourns throughout this month.But, as time goes on, players also move out of the team. We have to live with it. KUDOS TO OUR MOST SUCCESSFUL CAPTAIN "GANGULY"

Sourav Ganguly, for me, is the best captain India has ever produced. He is the best left hander for India, and for me he was the best ODI batsman for India during 1997-2002. I have always enjoyed the towering sixes he used to hit to the spinners, making room and hitting fast bowlers through the offside. As a captain he groomed the youngsters like yuvi, bhajji, irfan, kaif...extremely well. Most of his decisions as a captain were spot on and he didnt care whether one liked it or not as long as he thought it was right. He showed the way and his successors have followed and will follow his footsteps. His innings of 183 vs SL in WC '99 was the best. The moments of glory he gave us leading india to WC final in 2003, joint champions of champions trophy in 2002 and runners up in 2000... and many more are imprinted in our hearts. He deserves all the applause, standing ovations...hats off to our DADA. Well done. All the BEST to Saurav Ganguly in future endeavours.

A true match winner in his hay days. Sharp and Street smart as a captain. A good package overall. I still remember his performances in SAHARA cup and the Bangaladesh Independence cup.
His persona will be missed.

Sourav Ganguly, for me, is the best captain India has ever produced. He is the best left hander for India, and for me he was the best ODI batsman for India during 1997-2002. I have always enjoyed the towering sixes he used to hit to the spinners, making room and hitting fast bowlers through the offside. As a captain he groomed the youngsters like yuvi, bhajji, irfan, kaif...extremely well. Most of his decisions as a captain were spot on and he didnt care whether one liked it or not as long as he thought it was right. He showed the way and his successors have followed and will follow his footsteps. His innings of 183 vs SL in WC '99 was the best. The moments of glory he gave us leading india to WC final in 2003, joint champions of champions trophy in 2002 and runners up in 2000... and many more are imprinted in our hearts. He deserves all the applause, standing ovations...hats off to our DADA. Well done. All the BEST to Saurav Ganguly in future endeavours.

So the day has finally arrived.Like a german sedan, you want your hero to keep on fighting day after day..but alas the show can't go on forever.
To me, Ganguly brought conviction to a team which was talented but didn't beleive in themselves.He gave them courage.He taught them how to look in the eye of your enemy and not get intimidated. He taught them the meaning of dignity, self respect and conviction.Dada- is surely the Gladiator of Indian cricket and should be remembered as the able leader of men.That should not undermine his batting abilities.Like Dravid famously said: "On the off, there is god and then there is ganguly", he was one of the most graceful left handers Indian ccicket has ever produced, easy on the eye, gifted with immaculate timing and had that unpredective streak to attack when the chips were down.He was one of those players who beleived in killing them softly with his gentle stokeplay.
Kudos to the Indian General who taight us to win!

The prince finally call it quits.Hats off to your determination.When every body thought you were done you came back in one of the most heroic comebacks and to top it off you played another two years top level cricket and the numbers speak for themselves that you were in outstanding form compared to others in the Indian team.India will remember you forever as the greatest captain they ever produced.You indeed are GOD ON THE OFF SIDE and ur sixers are the best in world cricket.Your are a tiger and cricket will miss your play and the aggressiveness you bought into Indian cricket and showed to the world that Australia can be challenged and beaten in their own den.We are so proud of u sourav and we really will miss you.You are in a way so special that people will instantly remember you for your captaincy and the famous 2001 series victory which not many players have.We again are so fortunate to have seen ur play and ur captaincy thru the years.Bravo Prince of Kolkata.

So the day has finally arrived.Like a german sedan, you want your hero to keep on fighting day after day..but alas the show can't go on forever.
To me, Ganguly brought conviction to a team which was talented but didn't beleive in themselves.He gave them courage.He taught them how to look in the eye of your enemy and not get intimidated. He taught them the meaning of dignity, self respect and conviction.Dada- is surely the Gladiator of Indian cricket and should be remembered as the able leader of men.That should not undermine his batting abilities.Like Dravid famously said: "On the off, there is god and then there is ganguly", he was one of the most graceful left handers Indian ccicket has ever produced, easy on the eye, gifted with immaculate timing and had that unpredective streak to attack when the chips were down.He was one of those players who beleived in killing them softly with his gentle stokeplay.
Kudos to the Indian General who taight us to win!

Great way to sign-off dada. You acieved a lot and gave lot of confidence to India and the players to follow. I still can't forget the timing and class you have shown while batting. I wish all the best for your endeavors after retirement. Hope you do something good for the country and people.

The prince finally call it quits.Hats off to your determination.When every body thought you were done you came back in one of the most heroic comebacks and to top it off you played another two years top level cricket and the numbers speak for themselves that you were in outstanding form compared to others in the Indian team.India will remember you forever as the greatest captain they ever produced.You indeed are GOD ON THE OFF SIDE and ur sixers are the best in world cricket.Your are a tiger and cricket will miss your play and the aggressiveness you bought into Indian cricket and showed to the world that Australia can be challenged and beaten in their own den.We are so proud of u sourav and we really will miss you.You are in a way so special that people will instantly remember you for your captaincy and the famous 2001 series victory which not many players have.We again are so fortunate to have seen ur play and ur captaincy thru the years.Bravo Prince of Kolkata.

Saurav Ganguly - Many thanks for all the great memories you have provided. You will be missed as a great player and India's finest captain. All the best for your future - your ardent admirer :)

"all good things must come to an end"

the excitement Gangully has spread over the cricketing world will always be remembered. well done.

the tone of most comments appears to give the impression that this is a proactive decision. would it be wrong to assume that in the recent past the BCCI has been making it clear that the time is right & the seniors in the Indian team need to make a decision re their careers?

Oh well...!! It looks like the eternal fighter has finally given up. In a way Saurav has made a mistake because this was the time to prove the critics wrong rather than give up.

What this would also mean is that all the speculation about forced retirements would seem true even if Saurav is actually and really going out on his own terms. Also, it's like indirectly letting down the other 4 because in a way all the 5 should have fought on together to prove the critics wrong because all 5 still have got more to give, leave alone the fact that there aren't really capable players to replace these greats.

Not since Rahul Dravid in 1996 has India got a player whom we were able to say with conviction would go on to become a world-class player.

The era of 5 great players running parallel to each other is really rare & that itself is in many ways reason enough to feel sad about Saurav's exit.

He had his flaws &controversies, but all said and done he was majestic. Good Luck Saurav !

Good piece but hurriedly written and hence a discrepancies. Gavaskar did not announce his retirement in Bangalore but later during the summer in england after having played his last test match. The only other player who could have been picked but chose to quit was Srinath after a good world cup

Dada lives in my heart forever. I need him 2 get a big 100 soon. sure. Australia curry ready

Hats off to a Great Captain. He tookover the captaincy when India was in match fixing controversies. He has performed both with Bat and as an aggressive captain. HE was a victim of board politics, due to which he lost his captaincy. He could have served for some more time as Captain. But the episodes that followed showed poor class of our cricket administration. (Bunch of Jokers/shameless politicians) AGain he came back with his performance. Since his comeback he has been the second highest scorer next to Laxman and better than Dravid and Tendulkar.

Today Tendulkar is the next when one examines his performance and fitness with the same yard stick.But he will be spared by Mumbai BCCI mafia. Pressure will be built on Dravid and Laxman sparing tendulkar. Eventhough VVS have proved his class consistently on test yet people aim for his head as there is no backing. Cricket loving public and media should hanlde the retirement of senior sportsmen who have brought laurels for our country

Saurav was really a prince who was a treat to cricket lover's eyes when if was on a song.who can forget that 144 at Brisbane when Aussies media were taking about chin music.Who can forget those majestic drives through the offsides with fielders being put specially to stop those.Let all of us come forward and salute this never say die cricketer

It is sad to see the day Dada has to retire. He has been in the line of fire for years now and finally to see him leave is very sad indeed. However, I will always remember him for the good times he gave me and all the other cricket fans. His captaincy, which put India right back on cricketing map, his batting, especially all those elegant innings he played, and his temperament, which kept him going in face of adversity. I will miss you Dada. Thanks for the Memories.

Well...... I for one don't understand whats this fuss all about ' Going out when on top '. I personally feel if a player goes out when he is on top it means he is stopping short of giving it all. I would rather prefer someone fighting till the last, even if he gets dropped... I dont see any shame in that provided that player is not getting selected continually because of 'politics'.

Now that Saurav has annouced his retirement I hope Rahul or Kumble doesn't follow suit and fight it out till they have nothing more to offer. I dont see any dent of pride in that, I only see a true fighter in that.

The Board or the media should stop talking crap.... about VRS schemes and starting a new trend where in the seniors make way gracefully for the next generation etc... Let the newcomers earn it. Give everyone a fair deal, irrespective of the age. Select the best possible eleven, not the youngest possible eleven. Performace is the real deal, not age !

A great captain, a resilient, driven character, and a splendid batsman on his day - a king against spin.

He may have ruffled up a few teammates, especially in England, but that's sometimes the way with characters like Ganguly. To me, he was a captivating and admirable cricketer.

Sourav Ganguly has finally made the announcement which (i feel), he should probably have made 18 months or so back. Soon he shall make his last stand against the Aussies. He gave the Indian cricket team BELIEF, belief in themselves, belief in their abilities. He was arrogant, yes! And aggressive. These are qualities required to be a successful captain. It gave many of us great pride that he was able to stand toe-to-toe, eyeball-to-eyeball against the bully-boys of cricket, the mighty Aussies. His last couple of innings now may not be memorable. But the memories he leaves us, of the past decade, the cover drives, the dancing-down-the-track to spinners will, hopefully, be long remembered. Thou shall not be forgotten, Sourav!

Sourav Ganguly has finally made the announcement which (i feel), he should probably have made 18 months or so back. Soon he shall make his last stand against the Aussies. He gave the Indian cricket team BELIEF, belief in themselves, belief in their abilities. He was arrogant, yes! And aggressive. These are qualities required to be a successful captain. It gave many of us great pride that he was able to stand toe-to-toe, eyeball-to-eyeball against the bully-boys of cricket, the mighty Aussies. His last couple of innings now may not be memorable. But the memories he leaves us, of the past decade, the cover drives, the dancing-down-the-track to spinners will, hopefully, be long remembered. Thou shall not be forgotten, Sourav!

Being a DADA fan, right from 99 after the sad exit of AZAR, cherished each and every moment of his cricketing career.. right from the day he made his debut, scoring a sparkling century on debut, wicket of nasser hussain holding the ball to his chest (not wishing to give anyone), great Toronto series, sparkling century on a record chasing win at Dhaka (chasing 300 plus), taking over the captaincy, winning matches abroad, unbelievable 2001 series win against the same aussies, Lords carnival in 2002, golden run in world cup 2003 (125 runs separating the world cup), Brisbane blitzkreig, conquering Pakistan, forgettable 2005, entering the 10K club, legendary comeback in 2007, mighty double hundred at Bangalore, one last series against Australia now.. DADA u have been a true entertainer, with the other two legends, an awesome sportsman.. wishing u all great good luck to sign off the series in style.. c'mon.. u can do it.. THANKS FOR ENTERTAINING..

Dada, you're the best leader! I would encourage you to join active politics. There is a very high need to have a real courageous leader like you. It would be a heyday if you every dream of becoming a future CM of West Bengal. Your analytical brain, and courage is what the country needs! Best wishes in your life, Dada! People of India should remember you as one of the finest leaders, Bravo!

I am true admirrer of Saurav Ganguly.He was one of the person who changed the face of the indian cricket when it was really in crisis when match fixing was going.He is true leader and the champ of the Indian cricket team....He always lead from the front and will be remembered always as a great captain and true fighter for Indian cricket.I wish him good luck for his career

A well written article. I'm not a Ganguly fan and nor am I a fan of "never go out with dignity" attitude of the indians, gavaskar excluded. It was still an a very warm article and nice to read.

Ganguly you were a good player, and done a lot for India. We all appreciate your work and wish you all the best for your life in the future. Jai Dada Jai Hind

Sourav was probably the most engrossing personality to don the whites in the last decade. He was clearly the best captain (and yes, I am including Waugh, Ponting and Vaughan in that mix), leading a team of underachievers to the No. 2 position in both forms of the game. More than that, for the first time since Sunny stood up to the four-pronged Windies pace attack and defied gentle colonialist derision at Lord's, and since Kapil led India, almost blithely, to the pinnacle of cricket, Ganguly gave Indian cricket an identity, a purpose, and a dignity that even Sunny and Kapil could not. Much as the Don did for Oz 60 years ago, heralding the inevitable rise of a relatively new, relatively disrespected country, Sourav did for India. Sourav was the perfect leader for the period when India rose to become a first-rate world power. As a fan of the brash and brave men in Baggy Green, I can offer Sourav the greatest tribute - he was the best Ozzie of us all!

A GREAT CAPTAIN and A GREAT FIGHTER

Remember the Natwest final and the Lords gallery....It was Ganguly who showed the Indian team that they can fight back....One should say an era comes to end. He deserves a fitting farewell...none other than 4-0 dribbing of the Aussies.....

I feel that for all the Good Ganguly did for Indian Cricket,he was treated badly in recent times.He showed great character by being graceful even when not being picked.He had steely resolve to get back into the team on merit of performance and not just past record.There is a lot for youngsters to learn from Ganguly's career.All the best to Ganguly for his future and I salute him for the great cricketer that he was.

A major mile stone in Indian cricket history to say the least. I have always been an ardent fan of him. I am proud to have remained such a fan of him when everyone in the world was disserting him.
His aggressive nature brought a different dimension to Indian cricket. Often people talk about how consistent the other great players in the team are. With all due respect to those players, I feel that Sourav is the best player India has ever produced in his own way.

I salute you Sourav. It’s been a pleasure.

Satish

Ganguly had been a very enterprising cricketer. It was unfortunate that his cricket career was plagued by lot of politics in the selection board. He has suffered a lot through his career. I wish that he proves his calibre in this series also. His calibre is supported by the statistics that he carries behind him. BCCI showed its partial attitude when they decided to drop him from Irani Cup though his performance, I would say was better since his come back than any of the other senior players. May God bless him with happy retired life (as a player), though he can still remain in the game by offering his services as coach or manager. This will be a great service to the game. I wish that he gets such opportunity at the earliest.

We will miss you man. Dada and Sachin, the greatest opening pair ever in the ODIs. All good things have to come to an end.

Goood on you dada. I am proud of your acheivments first as an Indian and more as a proud Bengalee. Thank you for standing up to those "arrogant Aussies". You showed them what we Indians are made of. As a current Aussie-well done mate!! I will miss you. AKS

His test record is not bad considering that he was mocked for being the weak link among the fab 4. We will miss you dada...

I'd love to see Ganguly captain India again for one last test. I think Kumble should step down for Ganguly for at least one test

Dada, May be this is the right decision - I don't know. But it brings lot of tears to my eyes. You are undoubtedly the best captain the country ever saw. Its a shame that people don't give the country's heroes what they deserve. Hope you continue to enlighten us in some form of cricket. FAREWELL DADA!!!

The question is not whether Sourav was shown the door or he compromised and bowing out, but there is no doubt that he deserves a standing ovation and a graceful exit from the arena. It will not matter if there was no "effigy burning" in Calcutta, but Ganguly's should be admired and respected to do everything "right" for the team staying above the regional petty politics. He didn't back the seasoned veteran Utpal (David) Chatterjee to get into his team and instead cherry-picked the deserving youngsters like Yuvraj, Zaheer, Harbhajan and led them from the front and stood behind them. There are very few Indian skippers who have done that and I agree his comparison with Tiger Pataudi - but Ravi Shastri? Give me a break please! Above and beyond his cricketing abilities, he is tough individual at his core and has lot of inner strengths by God's decree. Why not use his talent later in a role identical with what John Buchanan played for Cricket Australia? That will be a fitting tribute.

Hats of Prince,
See its again The Ganguly have to show the braveness to all.He is always the one who youngster can admire.I am surely can say he is a hero for so many people around India and proud to say i am one of them.Dont worry Saurav You will be still hero in all our hearts even though you retire,you have made an excellent decision.We all pray for the great perfomances in your last series.Let the Almighty give you a great exit.If Sourav reads this I will be very happy

A good article - farewell to Dada !!
Perhaps there will be a article soon, which I would love to read - as to how Dada dominated Pakistan during his early years.
The series in Toronto that India won 4-1, I think, in which Dada won Man of the match in, I believe, three matches. And, who can forget the great final in Dhaka,in 1998, when India chased away Pakistan, once again Dada shining.
Indeed, Dada, you have made the nation proud.

For the one last time, am longing to watch that drive, which is caressed through the off-side, slicing through the 6 fielders, who unmovingly watch it hitting the board, with admiration and frustation.

Dear Sourav,
You came in the indian team at the expense of a certain Mr. Kambli. So to me you were kind of unwelcome. But slowly and surely you won my heart, to an extent that to call you one of the best India has ever produced would be an understatement. The memory of you waving your T-Shirt after that Lords' victory will remain etched forever in our minds...as a symbol of bravery and fighting spirit. You were the only one who could look into the eyes of Aussies and tell them I am coming after you...
Regards

I am a British Pakistani and tend to support the Pakistan team but I have enormous respect for Ganguly. In front of Tendulkar and Dravid, Ganguly never got the appreciation he truly deserved because they were both better batsmen than him. As a captain he set new standards; he was competitive and had those qualities which Dravid and Tendulkar lacked as captains. As a player he might have been temperamental and combative at times, but he was a joy to watch and he scored runs against every side.

Time will judge Ganguly as India's best captain and one of its best batsmen. I think by announcing his retirement before the series has actually started, he has chosen to exit gracefully.

I wish Ganguly all the very best- thank you for being a great captain for your country and great player for the world to watch and admire.

Good on Saurav for picking the vibes and going on his terms rather than be pushed. Hope the team can give him a good sendoff by winning the series by a significant margin.

Thanks for the memories Saurav. Good luck for a great series.

>Azharuddin himself stopped tantalisingly at Test ... 'counting tainted money.'
Suresh Menon, Have you ever heard of the Phrase 'Innocent until proven Guilty?' Probably not. Atleast that is that is what IPC and I believe. Stop spreading the rumors. If at all there is any proof that he did what he did, post that proof aswell. Neither BCCI nor ICC ever produced any proof in the courts. All they did is impose their monopoly on Azar and a Big Media Circus. If there is a proof or judgement that I am not aware of, post that in your next article. Until then stop spreading Lies.

A man who has hauled Indian cricket out of thepathetic "Yes sahib, no sahib, you're always right, sahib" attitude we used to have towards certain other countries needs our warmest admiration. I don't care much for what Ganguly has done for Indian cricket in terms of runs (I know that his contribution has been significant), because what he has done for us in terms of character has been far more valuable.

Great article. Guess being politically correct is the norm of the day even for journalists. Ganguly was no doubt a good player but still was circumspect to a few consistent errors. One of the primal errors being rubbing the wrong side of the management and the board. You can call him a hero or a rebel for it. I leave the judgment to the fans. He did instill a fighting spirit especially in the team that he led from front. India will miss him sorely but it's time to ring in the new. Good luck to him in whatever he does. I am sure this will ring alarm bells to the other seniors in the team. Team India has to adopt a "shape up or ship out" attitude if they have to survive in the future. I hope the others leave on their own terms and never want to be remembered as the ones who came in with a bang and left with a whimper.

Hi Being a Paki..I shouldnt have good words for Ganguly (as crickter) because he had given lot of trouble to Pak team in the past. But hey fun aside he was a good player. A character obviously. Nice thing is that he is retiring in right time. And if he's able to score even just one hundered then I think it would be a great farewel. Not that it wont otherwise.

Saurav Ganguly, a hero when Sachin Tendulkar was struggling with his form. I hope everyone still remembers how Saurav had taken Sachin Tendulkar's place when Sachin was struggling with his own form; highest point being Sahara cup in Canada. Won four out of five matches for India as India won 4-1.

Saurav Ganguly; with all due respect to any other left handed batsman in the Indian team; is the best left handed batsman Indian team has ever played with.

Good luck for future Dada. You have served your country well.

Thanks to Saurav Ganguly for making the decision at the right time. It was such an amazing race...All the cricket fans of India, all the cricket fans of England, and all the cricket fans around the world. And it was such an honor to see him playing offside. Anything from the region of third man to cover was his, the all time God of offside.

Done with "dignity". Huh? The guy should have retired two years ago....

The first of the "Fab four" to announce his departure. Ganguly gave not only myself but countless fans of cricket some truly special memories to savour. One of my favorites was his swashbuckling 60 against England at Lords in 2003 chasing 325 to win, he laid the foundation for one of India's most memorable one-day victories. He brought to the indian team a "bloody-mindedness" that was sadly absent in previous sides and also some simply sublime strokes on the off-side. I will watch the upcoming series whith a tinge of sadness - Good luck Sourav, you have given me immense pleasure, you are truly an icon of indian cricket.

This announcement would definitely increase one's respect towards Sourav Ganguly. There is a reason why he is called the Prince.
Turning back and looking at what he did, he should feel very proud. One of the most graceful batsmen of his time, one of the very best Captains India has had - if not the best, one of the two best indian bastsmen in the late 90s - if not the best, and an awesome personality.

This announcement would definitely increase one's respect towards Sourav Ganguly. There is a reason why he is called the Prince.
Turning back and looking at what he did, he should feel very proud. One of the most graceful batsmen of his time, one of the very best Captains India has had - if not the best, one of the two best indian bastsmen in the late 90s - if not the best, and an awesome personality.

Good Stuff.One bad thing observed in Indian cricket is players denying to retire. I feel one should know when its their time out. Be a sport and support the youngsters. Dada has this habit of setting examples and he has done it yet again in style. Hats Off!! From being called the best Indian captain to being written off, I feel that Dada always knew what he is up to. I dare not compare Saurav Ganguly to anyone else in world cricket. He is a masterpiece in himself. Hope you continue your efforts in building a great Indian team. Thanks Dada. You are the best.

Hats off dada.....WE will remember you forever..for those huge sixes....glorious cover drives.....fantastic victories....tremendous self belief in the team....heroic over seas victories....last but not the least...playing for the nation and being the most successful skipper...we love you dada....! have a great life ahead!

The 2002 natwest final will always be remembered for Yuvraj and Kaif, but it was a Ganguly classic that set it up, hitting 60 of 40-odd balls and powering India to 105/0 in the first 15 ... and it was just an example of what he did many times in ODI's.

Mr. Suresh Menon ....can I ask you why there should be mourning in 'KolKata' ...or mourning at all...may be there will be mourning all over India beacuse and Indian player is retiring...it is disgusting to see the journalists are as narrow minded parochials as some of the readers.

Well done Ganguly. He really turned Indian cricket around and I'd like to hope that whatever criticisms there were of him, they won't overshadow his achievements. It's really sad how the respect that he is deserved was often not given to him though. Indian cricket is really going to miss him. Congratulations and well done Dada!

A good article, no doubt.

Sourav has been a great cricketer and undoubtedly the best Indian capatain ever. What he brought to Indian team was a sense of mental toughness and the attitude to fight fire with fire. Although the media have been crying for his retirement for a while now, I just feel he has timed it right. Of course, not everybody can have a retirement like that of Imran Khan. Hope he does well in this series.

Good luck, Dada(althgough I've never been a great fan of yours).

What dada has shown is worthwhile to all the fans & well wishers of cricket.without being biased, he rose to the expectations when needed most and as a successful Indian captain till date will be well rememembered by all.Coming from that part of the country which is being given least priority by cricketing fraternity, he showed all the will power n mental strength he had to lead from the front.Whenever all odds were against him, he fought his way back to the Indian team. It is high time that he is given due respect and a chance in the ODI's where his type of game is gives a good momentum-his record in opening with Sachin speaks that and why not the selectors try it as a 'last time'. DADA- we all will miss u

Two things I will always remeber about Ganguly:
1. Dancing down the track to hoist a spinner over mid-wicket or long-on for six.

2. The bare-chested celebrations at Lords gallery.

Great article. Reminds me of this poem by William Henley. It describes Ganguly very well..

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate;
I am the captain of my soul.

A BIG thank you to DADA for all that he has done to this cricket crazy country.......I will never forget the 2002 NorthWest Final, 2003 World Cup and so many other matches.
You did the right thing by quitting at the right time and place.

Vinayak ... why get the facts get in the way of a good story :-) I will remember Ganguly has a fiercely competitive captain and a blockbusting ODI opener. He had the temerity to challenge Australian supremacy through his captaincy. As a Bangladeshi I have a soft spot for players from Bengal. I wish more of my players could show the mental resolve this guy has. All the best in retirement Dada!

I agree with Vinayaks post. Gavaskar announced his retirement several months after his last test at bangalore - after he scored a hundred at Lords in the 'Rest of the world' game, although he played in the world cup after that.

A very sad reminder that all good things come to an end. Had grown up watching him. Thank you for all the memories Saurav.

True blue Suresh Menon parochial style .... "mourning in Kolkata" .. why can't you do better. I am sure half the poeple who have posted their replies here (and from the looks of their posts it seems that they are not too happy )are not from Kolkata . Well Mr. Menon, its easy to get your motives .. a last parting shot at Saurav eh .. ? Alas he is retiring , whose throat will you go after now ?

Sorry for the anti-climax, but hold off on the mourning guys - I don't think we've heard the last on this one, just yet. It's pretty clear that it was the media more than anything else that drove Sourav to this decision. Who's to say if he does well in this series, the media won't go overboard again & start the sms Y/N business if you want Sourav to stay!

Disclaimer: I'm not a big Ganguly fan, so this is not some utopian notion, just an understanding of the way things work in our country.

Lastly, if this is indeed the last that we see of him, thanks for the memories, Sourav. You've been a great leader of men & your legacy will always remain in the way you molded the team into a formidable outfit, not just at home but crucially, abroad as well.

Mr. Menon: Stop and correct yourself on Azharuddin. Publish the evidence of "counting tainted money". If you cannot, respect the profession you are in and do not write nonsense.

With the buzz word 'Maverick' being used by Senator McCain, I think the same can be said about Ganguly's legacy, and in some ways Ganguly is the true maverick.

Where others have toed the line and true hypocrisy and bureaucy still reigns in Indian cricket, Ganguly has always been an independent thinker and never afraid to tell it as it is or too challenges his own team members and the BCCI, and perhaps that’s why the Ganguly-Chappell tenure ended the way it did.

Ganguly, a terrific player till the end and someone Indian cricket may never see again. Ganguly, the maverick, will always be remembered.

IMHO, regardless of the not so good (and let me tell you that every human has a not so good side, yes including me) Thanks Ganguly for the awesome job and fierce competitiveness. Good Luck.

Its very sad that a fighter is about to end his career. He was a great captain. Always used to enjoy his batting ,bowling,fielding and on-field actions. His cover drives, his way of attacking spinners, his way of chasing the ball, every act of his was a treat to watch (majestic).This from a Pakistani fan.

You are the one who defined new era of cricket India . The most courageous and confident cricketer I have ever seen . Thanks for giving the tier-1 status to Indian cricket team under your brave leadership. Now the best in business wants to play with India ... because you with some other cricketers changed the shape of Indian cricket.

Standing ovation DADA.

You claim that Ganguly lead India to victory in Australia. I think, if you check you own site's rather excellent statistic' s session, you' ll find that India hase never won a test series in Australia

Ganguly is the best captain India ever had ....as a player his sixes against spinners are unforgettable

Here's to one of the best cricketers and greatest Captain India has ever produced - Cheers!

One of the best leader in Indian Cricket, will have a very gracious Goodbye finally...

Dada lives in our Heart always as a Great Crickter and a great warrior.

"Azharuddin himself stopped tantalisingly at Test No. 99, having extended the use of his supple wrists to counting tainted money. "

Mr.Menon,
A decent article on Saurav is blemished by the above very biased statement.Are you not aware that the allegations against Azhar have never been proved?How can you be so judgemental as if you have personally seen Azhar count the money?

The intense specualtion by the media and the subsequent pressures have already consumed Saurav Ganguly as he has announced his retirement at the end of the forthcoming Test Series against Australia.

And now Ricky Ponting is trying to take advantage of it by claiming that the "Fab Four" will feel the pressure because they are in the twilight of their careers. Ponting is no younger either but the difference is he has the support of the Australian media unlike the Indian media who for want of new things to write about everyday keeps writing (read speculating) whateve will sell copies.

In this regard I'm a bit disappointed even with Cricinfo for many a time coming up with sensational and speculative headlines, like for example the VRS rumour that was doing the rounds.

It would be better for Indian Cricket if the media stops all this & if not support, at least not speculate. Cricinfo can lead the way by showing more respect & support for our legends. Everything "begins at home" !

Hats off to this great Indian left handed Batsman a legend as well - Sourav Ganguly. He has made me to watch cricket through his strokes on around offside area and also by his stupendous captaincy skills. He was a leader ofcourse when he was leading India and nurtured many youngsters and given them superb confidence. He is instrumental in making the next generation cricketers like Harbhajan, Sehwag, Yuvraj, Mohd Kaif, Zaheer Khan, Suresh Raina and also supported the likes of Dravid, Sachin, Laxman and Kumble. Very good cricketer and a good human being and I wish Sourav a Superb series with Australia and also a happy and prosperous Retired Life. No one can replace Sourav from the present lot, because he is special and remain like that..All the very best to you Sourav and your family..Please be in touch with cricket after retirement. You are the best. You have retired gracefully..

Ganguly is one of my favorite personalities in world cricket. This guy brought India from the darkness of the 90s, and helped make it one of the strongest sides that it has ever been. Being a Pakistani, I hate to say it :) : he is a legend!

Thank you for the Memories Dada... We grew up looking at how you and the other Fab 4 turning into legends..BUT Most importantly thank you for instilling pride in this Indian team and the confidence to play as well abroad as in their own backyards... That never existed before your captaincy...good luck and hope to see you back soon in some other active role with Indian cricket

He made a statement the day he refused to carry the water bottle just because he was a junior (challenging authority). He brought that attitude in the Indian team that learned to win abroad under his leadership. A team of talented individuals cannot achieve much without a great leader. He brought that leadership quality. He may not be the best batsman ever like Tendulkar (Bradman) or technically perfect like Dravid, but he had the fighting spirit that embodied the whole team. I am not suggesting he is not a great batsman, 17000 international runs are not easy to make. After him, the Indian cricket team became a team not just a group of players fighting for a place.
I will especially remember him as a captain who got to the Aussies...the masters of art of disintegration.
My favorite innings of Ganguly was the big partnership between him and Dravid at Taunton, England for a world cup game against Sri Lanka. I am sure there were more but that one I enjoyed the most.
Best wishes to him.

Mate, nice touch on Azhar. You want to write about Sourav, pls stick to it. Don't use your privilege as a columnist to take cheap shots at someone. Vatsa, Chennai

Ganguly is simply superb.He is the one who bought the game of cricket a passion for indians. He is the one who started to believe in youngsters and he gave them a chance.He was a great captain.
Good Luck to ganguly.

Well done DADA. I think this is one of the best decisions he has made at the right time as he is always know for. What my perspective is, it is better play your last series with no preasure at all rather than being under immense presure about the selection for the forth coming series after this. I certainly believe that, he will come up with the standout performance amongst the so called fab four, and only because of the timely decision he has made about his retirement. All the best DADA.

Sure Saurav was a mentally strong cricketer. But all this going overboard about him teaching India how to win and the fact that he is going out on his own terms with dignity is a bunch of crap. Anyone with a half a grain of brain in their skull can tell that as many times as he has been left out is more than a tug on his shoulder to leave. Talking about his cricketing merits with objectivity yields the following
1. Mentally very strong
2. Extremely weak against decent fast bowling
3. Suspect on bouncy tracks
4. Fitness always below desirable international standards
5. A flat track bully for a large part of his career
6. Bullied minnows of cricket to the maximum (not his fault)
7. Easily not in the same league as Sachin or even Rahul and Laxman
8. Overly proud of his mediocre achievements
9. Started as an average fielder and will end as a liability on the field
10. Stayed well past his use by date
11. Selfish e.g. sent in PA Patel to open in NZ on a greentop

Ganguly was one of the greatest captains of not only India but also in the cricketing world. He changed the attitude of Indian Cricket with his bold decisions and fighting spirit. He was a team man, he was always behind the juniors such as Yuvraj and Harbhajan and to a lesser extent Zaheer Khan. If there was no Ganguly then there would be no Yuvraj, I beleive so. But my comment for our Indian media and public is that now since we have received the news of retirement from Ganguly every one is hailing him and paying tributes. But please think deep in your hearts did you ever support him during his playing days especially in the last 2-3 years. The answer is a big NO. This is the mentality of Indian Cricket. No doubt I am Indian too, but we become emotional by few antics played by the media. Suddenly we find ways of bullying cricketers. Please respect our seniors for what they have done for the country. They deserve it. I hope Ganguly scores big and helps India retain the trophy. Ganguly is a true fighter, he has the killer instinct. Praise him or abuse him, but you cannot ignore Ganguly, he is that type of a person. I wish him best in his future endeavor.

Dada deserves the respect and a graceful exit, so how ever he is in the team it is his last chance to give it back to the AUSSIES and especially to the selectors. The selectors ruined his career all the time but he always fought his way back in the team. Just watch his factline when he was in for the ODI series in Australia in 1992 from then on he has made 3 comebacks.That is not a joke. Be it because of Jagmohan Damiya or what, he had the fire in his belly to be back. Its easy to make a comeback at a young age rather than at a 34. BEST OF LUCK.

I do not agree about his captainc he was lucky he had great players and fighting capble players with eagerness to establish once they established they became arrogant and Dravid paid th eprice for not being firm to kick them out. Vengsarkar and Ganguly and Sachin used their power to over rule Dravid I felt to keep their names intact. And arrogance of Harbie, Zaheer, Sehwag, Yuvraj was worse they even openly revolted against Dravid for their selfish reasons. I hold no respect to Ganguly as a player or leader but I respect his timing in shot selection when in form rest were just luck and good support nothing much. Give emotional credit for some achievements and some ability but dont go ga ga He is good but not great and he was power oriented. No gentleman like Dravid no more a fighter than Dravid or Sehwag or Amarnath in terms of come backs and turning aside images as slow or old and they fought infight and establishment North South selector divide even. Ganguly always had it easy

I have never seen any batsmen playing cover drive better than ganguly in the cricketing world. He has shown the world what he is capable of whether as a captain or a player. He is the only indian captain shown the world that india can win matches away from home and he led the team to world cup finals. I think indian cricket is missing such a great cricketer in the coming days. But don't worry dada you'r still a beautiful and prolific left hand batsmen in the world. All the best for your feature dada.

I seriously dont think this is decision taken by him happily. BCCI selection commitee's policies and decisions has forced him to take this unfortunate step.
I truly believe he has the talent to perform well for 2 more years in tests as well as ODIs.
Considering the fact that we are in process of preparing ODI team for 2011 world cup, Ganguly wont get place in ODI. But there is no replacement for him in Tests and he is very fit to perform well.

As we say, all happens for good sake, I respect his decision as he would only know how is he treated by BCCI.

But blame is on BCCI for ending an Era much before it should have been..
Salute to the Most successful Indian Captain, Most elegant batsman, a fighter, an aggressive player and DADA of cricket!!

Why ruin a tribute to Sourav by dragging in unproven assertions against a former India great? Tasteless journalism.

He has made the decision at the right time. Hopefully now media and some fans will stop criticizing and blaming Dada. People love to criticise him while ignoring all that he has done for Indian Cricket. Sad to see a legend retire. All the best DADA

Javagal srinath couldn't work out a happy ending for a successful career!
That's really a news for me.

He ended his career with an exceptionally successful 2003 World Cup, where not only did he take 16 wickets, reached up speeds of 143 kmph, but also guided & supported Nehra & Zaheer, helping India reach the finals, where he was highly expensive.

And I think that says it all that he chose his career end with a perfect timing. His last season in one-day internationals he took 39 wickets at an average of 23, 5 points below his career average.

I appreciate your effort in trying to make Ganguly's decision a historic one [ nothing against Ganguly here ], but please dont try to belittle Javagal Srinath by saying that he didn't retire in team. He will always be remembered to bring fast bowling revolution in India.

regarding victories in australia,west indies and england,ganguly never any series in these countries,it was under dravids captaincy only we won test series in west indies and england after decades and against australia we only shared the series,only significant series we won overseas under ganguly captaincy was against pakistan and that due to indvidual brilliance of sehwag(309)and dravid(270).

You are the best, Dada.. Its a very sad moment in Indian cricket, but I guess you have taken the right step. India will never see a captain like you. The century at Lords, the Toronto series, World Cup thrashing of SL, the wonderful start at the natwest final, the century in the first match of 2004 Aus series, match saving innings at SA, the double hundred against pak, etc etc.. the list goes on. We will miss you big time. I am sure you are going to sign off in a big way. All the very best for everything in future.

I do not agree that Javagal Srinath stayed on too long and his retirement was ill- timed.
The records speak for themselves. He did exceedingly well in his last few tests from which he first retired. His perfomance in the 2003 World Cup which was his last in One-dayers was also very good.

Best wishes and good luck. Only time will tell what you did for Indian cricket.

Its indeed a sad day for Indian cricket, a colossus, a fine leader who brought self belief and aggression within "Team India". With test victories abroad & reaching the ODI World Cup final in 2003, he must rank as the best captain of India. We used to crumble like tenpins against Australians, he got us to look them in the eye and not flinch. Since 2001, we have been giving the Aussies a run for their money and now the Gavaskar - Border Trophy is the best series..not the Ashes or the Frank Worell Trophy. I do hope the selectors let him play the last 2 tests as well, so that the entire nation can see the final hurrah of the Prince of Kolkatta.

Hats off to Ganguly for retiring at the right time. As always Gangulay has set an example of courage to all youngsters.
But one foolish comment on Azhar has spoiled a nice mood. And for the record, Azhar scored a century in his last innings which no Indian has ever done.

"Sourav Ganguly - The face of Indian Cricket Revival".

He has ensured he plays in all the 4 matches by this tactical master-stroke.

Ultimately all that matters is that he did things for India to be proud of against western bullying and gave as much as got. But it need not be too open Anil Kumble also gave it back but with more dignity and subtlety. I will remember Ganguly for his good batting in ODI in form. For his determination and grit but nothing more. All the bad things best forgot even his politics with Dalmiya and support to Tendu and Veng to pressurise Dravid. But I would say better than those two is Ganguly. Let him end his career with pride and peace and Indian media allow the rest of the greats to retire in peace and dont hound them like they did Ganguly. Show some self respect and do not let the mouths of Australia malign and pressure after all dirty tricks

Further more Ponting remarks about insult when evidence says it what are we talking about here? Insult is for people who do things with sportsman ship and respect not for big mouths and senseless and decency less anything goes to win indecent atitude. I remember Imran recalling Srikkanth when he was given out because Imran felt it was not out and over ruled the umpire. That is sportsman spirit and confidence and fighting spirit and decency. What ever he does Ponting will never be compared nor will any Australian to Botham, Imran, Hadlee, Kapil, Dravid or Lara or Lloyd or Richards for true spirit. Street fighters and professionals that is the difference. Ponting and his team will have to get a lot more spirit and sense to understand that which I never expect them to get.

Good article on Ganguly. Supremely talented & very mercurial ... and I one of the comments about him doing all this against public support or the board's is very admirable. I am also a great fan of the Wall, and I would love to see him retire on his terms. I reckon the great trio should have retired by now, incl. Tendulkar, but where are the replacements?

I don't understand why the Indian press is making it difficult for their own players by freely throwing around a lot of speculations. Their senior pros are good enough to offer more.

Matt Hayden is 36 & Ricky Ponting is 34 which means they aren't any younger. And down here there are replacements available for them whereas in India I don't think there are players of calibre to replace Kumble / Sachin / Dravid / Laxman / Ganguly.

So logically, the Aussie seniors are the ones who should be feeling the heat more than the Indians. But they are smart cookies, as is the Aussie media. And as such Ponting & Co. are diverting the attention from themselves as much as they are trying to find an advantage by putting pressure on the Indians. So, if the Aussies lose the series it might be Bye-Bye hayden & Ponting rather than the Indian 'Fab Five'

He is the finest captain India ever produced. It was his faith that gave India Yuvraj,Bhajji and Sehwag. It was he who stood upto the task when Sachin refused captaincy and took India to first test wins in ages abroad.
Also one of the greatest ODI openers in the world,he deserves to retire peacefully

Farewell Dada, you may not have been the most technically perfect player, but we will remember you for instilling a fighting spirit and "can do" attitude in our team. We will remember you for the way you groomed youngsters in the team. We will remember you for your sheer gung ho attitude. We will always salute you for making a great comeback after being dropped.

Can't play on bouncy pitches, huh. People seem to have forgotten his crucial innings at Wanderers in 2006, which enabled us to win our first ever Test in S.Africa. As also his hundred at Brisbane in 2003.

And Mr.Menon, the mourning won't be in Kolkata alone. Dada's fans are there all over India, North, South, East and West. I know a friend of mine, who was such a die hard fan of Dada, that to date he still can never forgive Dravid. And he happens to be a Bangalorean.

But blame is on BCCI for ending an Era much before it should have been..
Salute to the Most successful Indian Captain, Most elegant batsman, a fighter, an aggressive player and DADA of cricket!!( i hate that BCCI )

I cannot believe Sourav is going and he will be sorely missed. He has brought colour, flair and excitement to Indian cricket and has not always received the recognition he deserved. A great captain with bags of personality and qualities of leadership sadly lacking in some of his contemporaries. I hope he stays with cricket perhaps in the media as his experience and knowledge will be an asset to the same. Good luck Sourav, I will miss you loads!

Well i commended Ganguly for his decision and his great career but than comes an article that said he was forced to make this choice. In the article Ganguly blames a lot of people and also puts down his teammates. Not very classy and it was definitely unnecessary. All the respect i had just came crashing down when i read that. No one has forced him to retire there is no reason to blame others for his decision. Just because he has been a great player in the past doesn't necessarily mean that he will be selected in every series. Seems like he is whining to me. Done with dignity? No way.

One of the great player of indian cricket and Best caption of india as of now.He is great player & best left hand batsman. Nobody can play in offside like him. So he is going for good, but i could like to see him back as batting coach or any other of advisor for indian team/ atleast for india A team. Not as commentator.