Galle, July 17: An impending visit by the president, school kids being driven down from various districts and a festive décor to the venue. This only partly sums up world record holder Muttiah Muralitharan’s farewell to Test cricket.
Galle is readying to give the champion off-spinner a fitting send off. The carnival atmosphere is an apt reflection of the joy he has provided to his legion of fans.
After 134 matches of relentless toil, Murali is perched at the top of the totem pole with 792 scalps. The decision to extend his career by one more game was actually brought forward by Sri Lanka Cricket.
“I had planned to retire after the West Indies series at home. This tour was not on then I thought an India-Sri Lanka match was the right time to quit and I thought one match was enough. There are young spinners who can have a go,” said Murali.
Parting shots can be a mixed bag. The glorious history of the game has seen some of the mightiest succumbing to the emotion. Murali though, was as intense in practice saw the next five days as any other Test match.
“Can’t call it a big match, just another and my last one. I have been happy with the way I have played in the last 18-19 years. Hopefully, I will do well and get a good result and retire well,” explained Murali.
For a bowler who had endure a fair bit due to the controversy surrounding his action, Murali came out unscathed, and he was only too happy to acknowledge the help received in turbulent times.
“Everyone helped me. The fans, players, the cricket board and the captain all made it easy. Ranatunga played a big role and so did Aravinda de Silva.”
For one who played a pivotal role in the 1996 World Cup triumph, the 2011 edition provides a chance to join a select band of players to have played five World Cups.
“The selectors wanted to give youngsters a chance and pick the best combination for the World Cup. If they really want me and if I fit in, definitely I will play. Otherwise I will be happy to give my place to a youngster because I have nothing more to achieve.
“I have played four World Cups and won one and been runner-up in another. If the youngsters are doing well, they can carry on,” said Murali who added that spinners Ajantha Mendis, Rangana Herath and Suraj Randiv had it in them to take the country forward.
Predicting a good future for Test cricket, Murali noted he never dreamt of a finish like this.
“I have no regrets. God has given me everything. I am happy with what I have achieved and I am glad to go out on my terms,” said Murali who picked Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara as the best batsmen of his generation.
Murali needs only eight more scalps to breach the 800-wicket mark.
“If I could take eight in the first innings, Sri Lanka will win. It is not going to be easy, India have a good batting line-up. I will try all my tricks and enjoy the game and I would take a win any day over my personal landmark,” concluded Murali.