Ramesh decides to call it quits

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He began his career with a bang and is now ending it with a whimper as it were.

Former Indian opener Sadagopan Ramesh has decided to call it quits, nearly three seasons after he played his final first class game. He made a grand impression in his Test career, batting positively in international cricket.

That he may not have had all the chances he deserved may be another riddle. You could put that down to his having played in the confused era of Indian cricket.

“There are two ways to look at it. My last Test innings was 55 and there was no explanation why I was never picked again. At the same time I have to draw solace from the fact that many talented players never got a chance to represent the country and I could have been one of them. A bit disappointing without doubt but happy I performed to the best of my ability for my state and country,” said Ramesh.

Ramesh was involved in two high-profile Test series - against arch rivals Pakistan in 1999 and in the famous 2-1 win over Australia in 2001. “They were easily the best attacks in the world then and every run had to be earned. Having played the six Test matches against them gives me utmost satisfaction,” added Ramesh.

The biggest regret for Ramesh is not winning the Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu. “The infrastructure provided by TNCA and the highly competitive senior division league had a positive impact on my career and not being able to win a Ranji Trophy for my home state is a disappointment I will carry all my life,” said the 35-year-old.

The southpaw enjoyed a fair share of success with the Indian team, the series win over Australia and beating Pakistan in the 1999 World Cup being the high points. “I will cherish those memories forever. The match against Pakistan was played when the Kargil war was going on and the atmosphere was really tense. I got to understand the rivalry fully only then,” explained Ramesh.

After being discarded by Tamil Nadu, Ramesh went on to represent Kerala and Assam with some success in the Ranji Trophy but post retirement, Ramesh is training his thoughts on associating only with Tamil Nadu.

“This is where I learnt my cricket and would love to give something back. I would be glad involve myself in some capacity with either the Ranji team or Chennai Super Kings,” concluded Ramesh.