The instant retirement of Adam Gilchrist will at least ensure the rampant criticism will immediately be replaced by celebration. Print space dedicated to negative comment - a fair portion laced with agenda – will be handed over to memories of a legend who will surely go down as one of the greatest ten cricketers of all time, at least. But why announce the end in the middle of a crucial test?Perhaps this test was always going to be the last hurrah. Perhaps it was the Laxman miss. Perhaps it was one harsh article too many. We may never know. The very idea that the end can come in a flash is not a new phenomenon. Justin Langer’s chilling recollection of his conclusion, looking into the eyes of Matthew Hayden and seeing a fire that he no longer possesses, is a fascinating insight into the psyche of an elite athlete.
Maybe Gilly woke up yesterday morning and had that flash. Maybe it came this morning. Whatever the case, the timing of the announcement remains intriguing.
The middle of a test gives it a reactionary feel. If Gilchrist knew he wanted to retire two weeks ago, as Mark Taylor suggests, calling it quits on day three makes no sense. He could have had the big media conference in between the Perth and Adelaide tests, clearing the decks for what has become a series decider.
Adding to the mystery are statements Gilchrist made the day before Adelaide. He won’t be retiring and thanks for your concern. Since then, Gilly has dropped a sitter, copped a hiding in the press and become a world record holder.
Evidently three days is a long time in cricket.
The announcement could just have easily been made after the test. There’s no fifth test next week, so no need to be booking airline tickets and uniform fittings for Brad Haddin.
This fourth test is in an enthralling position. With Australia still over 200 behind the Indians going into day four, Gilchrist’s innings on a wearing track may be match defining, one way or the other. We know the Adelaide crowd is going to give him one hell of an ovation. What will that do to the mindset, as he takes guard surrounded by men around the bat?
It might be genius. Given Gilchrist is only averaging 22 for the series, the declaration may well be the circuit breaker he needs.
Those who saw Matt Hayden’s press conference straight after the announcement saw a proud man fighting his emotions with bold words and red eyes. Compelling evidence that Gilchrist’s pending departure will have its ripple effect within the tight group.
Is that what that group need with two days to play?
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