The Season of Goodbyes 2

Since the last post in this season of goodbyes, Kumar Sangakkara has played his final Test and Brad Haddin has officially retired. Ian Bell and Shane Watson have also bid farewell to the formats where they were least effective.

Kumar Sangakkara, like fine wine, grew better with age as he evolved from an athletic wicketkeeper-batsman into the mainstay of Sri Lankan batting and ultimately one of cricket’s immortal legends. His sublime touch, coupled with the lazy elegance that makes left-handers look special, was a pure joy to behold. As the prized wicket in the lineup (with all due respect to Mahela Jayawardene, his frequent partner in crime), he was often the sole difference between victory and defeat. For a neutral observer, watching him bat was one of the finest delights the sport offered.

Ian Bell and Shane Watson were two players who on their day could be world-beaters, but often looked inconsistent at other times. Watson never quite mastered Tests and Bell was similar in ODIs, yet both delivered memorable performances. Watson opening the batting in Tests was an exemplary study in how an aggressive strokeplayer could curb his natural instincts. For Bell, bursts of aggression while opening in ODIs showcased his exquisite timing. It is ironic how both excelled when opening in their least preferred formats. But then, that is cricket.