Australians should not be surprised at Ricky Ponting’s decision
to retire because after all like past players the Australians selectors have
never been shy of wielding the axe.
Ponting knew from his own experience in the ODI format last year,
reputation and emotions matter little when it comes to selection.
Ian Chappell has always said “it is always wise to go on
your own terms rather than being pushed out”. This mantra has always remained,
not only in cricket but in general Australian community.
Arrogant, cocky, and overconfident at times was how many
would describe Ponting on the field but despite of these characteristics he
walked on his own terms. Ponting feared the selection panel could eventually
decide his fate. It was a risk he was not willing to take. The King had walked
out of his court knowing surrendering is better option than falling on the
sword.
On the other side of the world stands the other king, Sachin
Tendulkar. For him lies no fears and he
dictates everything that eventuates in his court. Falling on the sword is not an option as no
one will ever dare to point a finger at him.
In his court are noble men who ensure the king his image
will never be tarnished. Tendulkar is naturally
self conscious and being asked to walk by selectors could be seen as embarrassing.
After all he has been the king for last
quarter of the century and every individual wanted to be in his empire. In such
manner, he has his men working across all sectors ensuring Tendulkar retains
his image.
These men remain loyal to him and rightly so. They too have benefited
by his success. Not one of them is willing to speak as it will be perceived as unfaithful.
Speaking against him could mean the end
of their respective careers.
Since he holds no fears, he continues to get the backing
because the decision makers are his own men. No selector in India is brave
enough to drop Tendulkar knowing the repercussions. It is sad state of affair
but that is India for you, it will not change.
Ponting will always be a cricket icon and then a common
Australian while Tendulkar can never be a common Indian. Perhaps that is the reason why Ponting could
make a decision overnight while Tendulkar cannot.
Ponting’s retirement has captured the hearts of even
critics, not that it matters to Ricky while the way things are going at the
moment, Tendulkar has lost his beloved fans, something that does matter to
Tendulkar.
The timing of retirement of Tendulkar and Ponting, two phenomenal
cricketers reflect the way cricket is played in the two cricket loving nations.
