Clarke and Waqar salute ‘amazing’ Murali
BIRMINGHAM, July 7: Australia’s Michael Clarke paid tribute to Muttiah Muralitharan after the prolific bowler announced his intention to retire from Test cricket, saying the Sri Lanka off-spinner was an ‘amazing player’.
A Sri Lanka Cricket statement issued on Tuesday said the 38-year-old had decided to quit Tests after the home series opener against India in Galle starting on July 18.
Muralitharan is the most successful bowler in international cricket history with record hauls in both Tests (792 wickets) and one-day formats (515).
Clarke joked Muralitharan’s decision was a reflection of the bowler’s belief in his ability to take the eight Tests wickets he needed for 800 in a single match.
“How many wickets has he got? 792. He’s confident then, one more Test. I think he is an amazing player,” Australia’s Twenty20 captain added.
“Over a long period of time, statistics don’t lie,” the top-order batsman insisted. “I think a lot of batters around the world will be very happy they don’t have to face him anymore.
“I guess on behalf of all Australia cricketers, and all Australian fans who’ve had the opportunity to watch him, congratulations are well and truly deserved. He’s been an amazing ambassador for Sri Lankan cricket and what a talent, what a career. I really hope he gets those eight wickets.”
No comments:
Post a Comment