Kolkata , December 30 : Laxmi Ratan Shukla’s decision to retire has caught most by surprise.CAB president Sourav Ganguly, also Shukla’s former Bengal teammate, believes the all-rounder could still have played for a few more years. But when asked about Shukla’s commitment towards the team was questioned, Sourav seemed more than surprised.
“I have no idea who questioned Laxmi’s commitment and involvement towards the team. At least no one told me anything about his commitment,” Sourav said on Wednesday at a felicitation programme of Dalhousie Athletic club .
Sourav, however, reminded that the decision was purely Shukla’s personal and it should be respected. “Five days back, Laxmi had told me that his health was not permitting, so he wanted to quit. I asked him to take some rest and think about it… Certainly, a quality player like Laxmi going comes in as a jolt, but it’s his personal decision. One must remember that.”
Bengal coach Sairaj Bahutule,was extremely surprised to see Laxmi retire . “See, I’m very surprised to hear he has said such things like his commitment was questioned. I have never doubted his commitment towards the game .”
Wridhiman Saha too was taken aback with the decision ,“I believe he is one of the best cricketers to have played for Bengal . It will be difficult to find his replacement . I still remember his performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy final few years back against Mumbai at Kotla , when he single handedly turned the match in Bengal’s favour .
Saha further added “Honestly, I never came across anyone who raised questions over Laxmi’s commitment and involvement. Nothing like this happened as far as I know . I will definitely miss him at the dressing room .”