Gandhi bids cricket adieu

Kolkata, Apr 25 (UNI) Veteran Bengal cricketer Devang Gandhi, who also had a brief stint with the Indian team, announced his retirement from first class cricket at Eden Gardens here today.

The 34-year-old player, who had served Bengal cricket for the past 12 years, called it quits citing family reasons and lack of motivation towards the game after Bengal's Ranji Trophy success this year.

Gandhi, who had played four Tests, with 88 being his highest knock and three one-dayers for India, termed his dropping from the national side as the most disappointing moment of his career.

Missing out on centuries after scoring 75 and 88 runs in Tests are his only regrets. He candidly said, ''The preparation for the Australian tour was not up to the mark. After the Australian tour, I had a knee operation and thereafter, did not perform well enough to get back to the side.'' Asked who was his best captain, Gandhi said, ''Sourav Ganguly's captaincy was the best. He is the most aggressive captain on field.'' Looking ahead, Gandhi said he had completed level two coaching course from England and would now like to get involved with level three and help youngsters.

Gandhi, who had scored a century on his first-class debut, signed off by saying, ''I would like to be remembered as a player who tried his best for his country.'' UNI BA RL VP2245