Sometimes it takes only a moment for something huge to dawn on you. It was just such a spur-of-the-moment reflection that resulted in Adam Gilchrist deciding to give up the Baggy Green. The Australian stumper spilled a catch of VVS Laxman at Adelaide in the last India-Australia Test series and immediately announced his decision to call it quits.
" It (the decision) just came to me in an instance when I dropped VVS. It was a fine line between a champion holding his place in the team and wanting to fall away or to not limit the opportunity for younger guys," said Gilchrist .
Another four Tests and Gilchrist would have completed 100, but he chose to bring an end on 96 Tests. "I was not sad. It was a big decision, one does not rush into it. I realised and only I knew whether I was 100 per cent determined," said Gilchrist. "Skill-wise I was still smart enough, my hunger was great. But I would not have maintained the hunger and desire throughout the season." Gilchrist said that India will go through a "generational change" the way Australia are at the moment. "Many thought 18 months ago when Sourav Ganguly was left out that India were beginning their transitional phase. Sourav fought his way back. But change is inevitable. India is very well positioned, thanks to the IPL, we saw young guys who are ready to fill the void."
While conceding that the current Australian team is a bit short on experience, Gilchrist did not think this would lessen the forthcoming contest with India. "It seems that every time the two nations have locked horns in the last 10-12 years, it has turned out to be an iconic series. There is no doubt Australia are a bit inexperienced. That does not mean these guys have not played in these conditions before. Australia have sent youth teams, 'A' teams here with a purpose to educate the players."Gilchrist also said the team would miss Andrew Symonds, but underscored the need to have a strong team unit. "The team demands 100 per cent focus and commitment and if you cannot provide it, that's how strong the message is from Cricket Australia."
{{/usCountry}}While conceding that the current Australian team is a bit short on experience, Gilchrist did not think this would lessen the forthcoming contest with India. "It seems that every time the two nations have locked horns in the last 10-12 years, it has turned out to be an iconic series. There is no doubt Australia are a bit inexperienced. That does not mean these guys have not played in these conditions before. Australia have sent youth teams, 'A' teams here with a purpose to educate the players."Gilchrist also said the team would miss Andrew Symonds, but underscored the need to have a strong team unit. "The team demands 100 per cent focus and commitment and if you cannot provide it, that's how strong the message is from Cricket Australia."
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