Mohammad Kaif reveals 'Coach Cool' and 'Real Coach' of his career

Kaif thanked each and every person who stood by him and supported him throughout, including the Indian fans

16 years after leading India to a glorious victory against England at Lord’s in NatWest series 2002 final, Mohammad Kaif hung up his boots on Friday. He purposely chose the day to bid adieu to competitive cricket, recalling how he and Yuvraj guided India to victory from the point where almost everyone had lost the hope.

Kaif chose to announce his retirement on social media. He shared a 2-page letter where he wrote his heart out and explained his entire journey. He termed that unbeaten 87-run knock ‘incredibly special’. At the same time, he thanked each and every person who stood by him and supported him throughout, including the Indian fans.

He also revealed the 'Coach Cool' and 'Real Coach' of his life who guided him to what he has been in his career.

Here’s the letter:

When I started playing Cricket,the dream was to play in the India Cap one day.Have been very fortunate to step on to the field & represent my country on 190 days of my life. Today is an apt day for me to announce my retirement from all competetive Cricket. Thank you everyone pic.twitter.com/HzKZDWgXBo

— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) July 13, 2018

 

Kaif, who last donned the India jersey in 2006 against South Africa, has played 13 Tests and 125 ODIs for the country. In his 13 Test appearances, Kaif amassed 2753 runs at an average of 32.01, including two hundreds and 17 half-centuries.

Kaif will always be remembered as one of the finest fielders to have ever played for India. He was also part of the Indian team that reached the World Cup final in 2003.

Kaif, who represented Uttar Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy for most of his career, last played first-class cricket for Chhattisgarh.