Never the same again

Cricket is and will probably remain one of my strongest passions, which is why the last couple of weeks has got me hooked to the Indian test series against Australia. This test series has marked the exit of 2 of India's greatest heroes.

For the record, Sourav and Kumble decided it's time to hang up.

And the game of cricket will never be the same again without the Silent Assassin aka Jumbo who goes about his job with the minimal fuss. He has been and will probably remain one of the best ambassadors of the game. He sets a true example for the likes of Gambhir who drag themselves into trouble with their child like behavior.

I have had the rare privilege of having played 3 games with Anil Kumble at the Bangalore league and that's when I realized the mark of a great sportsman. Those 3 games would remain in my memory for a long time.

And Dada, you have been my hero for the kind of leadership you have showcased. Your aggression and courage with a "tooth for tooth, nail for nail" attitude really helped take Indian cricket to greater heights. It was your perseverance with talent that prevented some greats like Viru, Bhajji, Zaki, Pathan, MSD from fading into oblivion. It shows the hallmark of a great leader, and now we know Indian cricket will pass on to safe hands.

New heroes will emerge and pepsi or coke might find a new face for their brands.......but I know for sure the game will never be the same again as the nation bids farewell to the giants of Indian cricket.