The Cricket World Cup has always been a spectacle. It’s where heroes are born, and legends are forged. Yet, with every tournament, we inch closer to bidding adieu to some stalwarts of the game. This edition will likely be no different. As the latest 50-over World Cup looms, there are several big names who might be gracing this grand stage for the last time. Here’s a closer look at seven such cricketers.
End of an Era: 7 Cricketers Likely Playing their Last ODI World Cup:
1. Rohit Sharma (India)
Rohit, a maestro with the willow, has already played in two World Cups (2015 & 2019). His prowess at the top has often set the tone for India. Known for his elegant stroke play and mammoth innings, this edition might be his swansong in World Cup cricket.
2. Mitchell Starc (Australia)
Australia’s left-arm speedster, Mitchell Starc, has been a force to reckon with. Playing in the 2015 and 2019 editions, he’s consistently tormented batsmen with his lethal yorkers. This World Cup could be the curtain closer for Starc’s illustrious Cup journey.
3. David Miller (South Africa)
South Africa’s David Miller is the embodiment of power-hitting. With two World Cup appearances in 2015 and 2019, he’s provided the necessary impetus in the middle order. This might be the last time we see Miller’s fireworks in a World Cup setting.
4. Angelo Mathews (Sri Lanka)
Angelo Mathews, the Lankan lion, has been an anchor for his team. Having played in three editions (2011, 2015 & 2019), his all-round abilities have been crucial for Sri Lanka. This World Cup might be Mathews’ final bow on this global platform.
5. Moeen Ali (England)
England’s spin wizard, Moeen Ali, has dazzled audiences in the 2015 and 2019 tournaments. His versatility with both bat and ball has made him indispensable. However, this edition might mark the end of Ali’s journey in the 50-over global tournaments.
6. Tim Southee (New Zealand)
Kiwi pacer Tim Southee, with his deadly swings, has been a thorn for opposition. Participating in three editions (2011, 2015 & 2019), his opening spells have often set the game’s tone. This tournament could potentially be Southee’s last hurrah.
7. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
Shakib is arguably Bangladesh’s greatest cricketing icon. With appearances in four editions (2007, 2011, 2015 & 2019), his contributions have been monumental. As we approach this tournament in 2023, fans might be preparing to bid farewell to Shakib’s legendary World Cup journey.
YOU MAY ALSO READ: Brendon McCullum’s Net Worth In 2023
Cricket, like life, is a cycle. Legends come, leave their mark, and eventually pass the baton. This World Cup will be tinged with nostalgia as we might be witnessing the final chapters for these magnificent seven. As they lace up potentially for the last time, fans worldwide will relish and cherish every moment, etching them in cricketing folklore forever.
