Sourav Ganguly calls it quits from IPL

Four years after he announced his retirement from International cricket, former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly has called it quits from all levels of the game, deciding not to play in the IPL as well.

The former India opener had continued playing first-class cricket for Bengal so as to keep in shape for his franchise Pune Warriors but after last year's debacle, Ganguly has at last decided against it.

"I will be almost 41 by the time IPL-6 ends. Twenty20 is a very demanding format. It would have been very tough for the body," Ganguly said.

The left-hander also said he had made his intention clear to Pune's officials during the last edition itself.

"To captain in IPL, there is a lot of responsibility. You are answerable to many questions. It's better to captain the country. At least, nobody would phone you and ask what went wrong," he said.

"I had a wonderful time playing in the IPL for five seasons. It gave me a chance to keep playing top-class cricket even after quitting international cricket. But I can't go on forever, and I have requested the franchise owners not to consider me for IPL-6."

Asked whether coaching was on his agenda, Ganguly replied, "There is a long time left to become a coach.

"Even if anyone approaches me to turn up as a player I won't agree this time. There is no question of playing anywhere if I'm not playing in Pune. If I don't play IPL, I won't play for Bengal as well."

"It is tough to play a whole season of first-class cricket when you know that you are not going to play for India. I kept playing firstclass cricket because you cannot just turn up for IPL without any sort of preparation," he said.

... contd.

ALSO READ

Kolkata Knight Riders face daunting task against Mumbai Indians

IPL 2013: It's going to be tough game against Punjab, says Daniel Vettori

IPL 2013: Ajinkya Rahane, Rahul Dravid fashion Rajasthan Royals' win

IPL 2013: A forgettable 'hat-trick' for Kieron Pollard