The end of an era, Thanks Gilly.

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With just one day of play left in the current Australia – India test series, all I can say is that this is the beginning of the end of an Australian era in cricket. Adam Gilchrist, I guess did sense the same thing and hence has wisely separated himself from this bunch of cricketers who place winning above playing. The difference between a professional organization and sports team is that in sports the race is more important than the result. The present Australian team undoubtedly is trying to be a professional organization.

In the last 10 years Australian Cricket has separated itself from the rest of the community, created a niche level where professionalism is paramount. However, I am sorry to say that despite all their success during this time and in the urge to be better professionals they have rapidly replaced sportsmen by professionals. Adam Gilchrist to me is the last substitution.

Gilly has been a great cricketer, not only in terms being successful in all forms of the game, but more importantly playing the game with the true spirit of sports. The ovation he got today, when he walked into bat possibly for the last time in white gear, said it all. He is one cricketer who everyone who knows him would like and respect, and in his absence cricket matches involving Australia would never be the same. He changed the way players approached batting in test cricket, and the whole world is still playing catch up to his style of batting. This has led to more test matches ending with a result. He has walked every time he has nicked the ball and has set an example for all modern cricketers.

Thanks Gilly, for giving us numerous cricketing moments which will be cherished, whenever someone talks about wicketkeepers. I would also like to wish you the best for whatever you plan to do next.