Good Bye Matt Prior

 By: - Disha Mashelkar

It is always a sad day for any cricketer to announce his retirement. We all remember how nostalgic was Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid (India’s four strong pillars) when they announced their retirement. The farewell speech given by Sachin Tendulkar had brought everyone into tears. The players who suffer from mental stress and physical pain now and then in their careers also the way they make their comebacks into the national team has always been an important part of their farewell speech.

Once again in the world of cricket, a retirement has been announced. This time it comes from England’s one of the best wicket-keeper batsman and a classic stroke player – Matt Prior!

33 year Matt Prior announced his retirement on 11 June on the backdrop of medical advice. He had undergone reconstructive surgery to repair a three-inch tear to his left Achilles tendon. Due to the doctor’s medical advice which advised to avoid returning to the competitive cricket, he finally took a call of retirement.

Matt Prior, had a glorious career by scoring 4099 runs with 256 dismissals. He played 79 tests throughout his career and was a part of the three successful Ashes campaign. He was the first England’s wicket-keeper batsman who had scored a century on his Test debut against West Indies in the year 2007 at the prestigious Lord’s.  Born in South Africa, Matt Prior represented England in 68 ODI’s and 10 T-20s.

Matt Prior’s exit from the cricket has opened doors for Joseph Buttler who is currently wicket-keeping for England. His talent and batting form recently splurged to fame as he scored the fastest ODI century from England. Jos had got the opportunity by replacing Matt Prior when Matt had to rest due to an injury issue.

The twitter world started showering its best wishes to Matt Prior as soon as his news of retirement was announced.  England’s bowler Stuart Broad tweeted: “Congratulations on a magnificent career must go to @MattPrior13. The heartbeat of a great dressing room and a champion of a man.” He also tweeted their pic holding the Ashes trophy. England Cricket gave tribute to Matt Prior by starting a hash-tag called #ThanksMatt. Kevin Pieterson tweeted, “We may have had our differences, but I’d like to wish @MattPrior13 all the best for his future…we did play some v good cricket together!”

Good luck Matt Prior. Cricket world will miss you!