At last the marathon World Cup is over. The interest here, of course, was on the wane as soon as India moved out. It revived slightly when our small neighbours crashed into the final, raising hopes of a return of the Cup to the sub-continent.

This World Cup saw, in a span of 49 days, many records rewritten and too many unpleasant incidents beyond comprehension. There were too many retirements, some of the greatest stars in their twilight said goodbye to one-dayers. They were the ones who made this limited-overs game enjoyable and thrilling with their great deeds.

Prince Lara signed off. He was the best thing to have happened to West Indies cricket in a long time and to the cricketing world in general. The farewell wasn’t as he would have expected, though. All would certainly agree that he was the best left-handed batter the world ever produced. One requires a whole book to write on this master.

Next in line is the great Glenn McGrath. The urge to keep doing well at age 37 was something that can put any youngster to shame. Going by his form, he could easily change his decision (to quit), but these Aussies know when to get out. And he is leaving on a most happy and glorious note, as Man of the Tournament.

Inzamam-ul Haq was another casualty. It wasn’t his fault, frankly. Not too long ago he was considered in the same league as a Brian Lara or a Sachin Tendulkar. He seemed to have all the time in the world to play his strokes all round.

... contd.