No Farewell: Ex-England Cricketer Questions BCCI

The BCCI has come under scrutiny after former England spinner Monty Panesar raised questions about the way some of India’s biggest Test cricketers retired. He believes the exits of these senior players were handled without due recognition.

Concerns Over Lack of Farewell Tests

Monty Panesar feels that Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin deserved proper farewell Test matches. According to him, players who serve the game for many years should be honoured before retirement.

Timing of Their Retirements

Kohli and Rohit retired from Test cricket in May last year. Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement after the third Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in December 2024.

No Planned Send Offs

Despite their long and successful careers, none of the three players received a planned farewell match. Monty Panesar said this was disappointing given their impact on Indian cricket.

Comparison With England’s System

Panesar compared India’s approach with England’s tradition of honouring retiring players. He pointed out that England gave fitting send offs to cricketers like Stuart Broad and James Anderson.

Achievements Speak for Themselves

Virat Kohli finished his Test career with 9,230 runs in 123 matches and remains one of the most successful captains in the format. His record reflects consistency and leadership at the highest level.

Rohit and Ashwin’s Contributions

Rohit Sharma played 67 Tests and scored 4,301 runs. He also led India to the final of the 2023 World Test Championship. Ravichandran Ashwin ended his Test career with 537 wickets, becoming India’s second highest wicket taker, while also contributing with the bat.

Debate Around Player Exits

Monty Panesar’s remarks have brought fresh attention to how Indian cricket handles player exits. While the achievements of these players remain unquestioned, many feel their careers deserved a more memorable farewell.