Cricket have produced many legends over the years, who notably played and contributed for their teams and above all, their countries and let their game make all the noise. Just after theICC World Cup came to a conclusion with England finally hoisting the ultimate cup after a cut-throat fight, while the runners up, New Zealand were unfortunate enough to lose the match on the brink of claiming the much desired title.
A heartbroken New Zealand returned to their homeland, and now the retirement of Brendon McCullumfor captain of the Kiwi’s, stirs open the wounds. However, on a bright note, McCullum retires from all form of cricket stating ‘One hell of a ride’. The former captain of the Black Caps, McCullum had induced the quick scoring even in Test format in the NZ camp. In a hearty Tweet officially declaring his retirement to the world, he also turned down the opportunities ongoing Global T20 Canada.
Debuting in 2004, he hit 96 runs in this first test against England, the record which was tarnished by himself only later in his career. For domestic team Otogo Volts fighting against a daunting score set by the Auckland Aces scoring 170 in his first ever match he put his mark, out there on the field, with his battering batting skills. Under his captaincy New Zealand for the first time gave a promising contest at the World Stage, reaching the finals of the 2015 ICC World Cup, but falling just short of Australia.
His T20 career was yet to make headlines and set forth new records, and fans and cricket lover can never forget the first ever opening match of Indian Premier League between Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2008. In the match his blitzkrieg 158 not out off 73 ballswith his distinct style of batting and using smart cricketing shots on the field, with scoops and sweeps he set a different outlook of the T20’s. His 6,453 in 101 Test matches, 6,083 in 260 ODI’s, and 2,140 in just 71 T20 matches only adds to his legacy and honor.
First retiring from Test Cricket in 2016, and now from all formats has severed many hearts across the world, but his contributions can never be erased. As Brendon McCullum makes a clear exit from the game of Cricket that made him stand out from the rest, he will surely will be missed like others who have left their glory intact.
