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“ A moment can change one’s life” is an adage that no one denies. Such a moment came for Mark Boucher on Monday, when he played against Somerset. Imran Tahir‘s googly dislodged the bail and flew to injure Boucher’s left eye. After undergoing a 3 hour major-surgery, Mark Boucher admitted that to recover fully is almost uncertain. Hence he decided to call it a day from international cricket.
” It is with sadness, and in some pain, that I make this announcement. Due to the severity of my eye injury, I will not be able to play international cricket again. I had prepared for this UK tour as well, if not better than I have prepared for any tour in my career. I had never anticipated announcing my retirement now, but circumstances have dictated differently. I have a number of thank you’s to make to people who have made significant contributions during my International career, which I will do in due course. For now I would like to thank the huge number of people, many of whom are strangers, for their heartfelt support during the past 24 hours. I am deeply touched by all the well wishes. I wish the team well in the UK, as I head home and onto a road of uncertain recovery.”
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Stranded at 999 international dismissals, inclusive of 555 test dismissals, Boucher had played 147 Tests , 295 ODIs and 25 T20Is. Hailed as next-best-wicket keeper after Gilchrist, his job behind the stumps was as vital as his batting.
Boucher thanked his fans for their support and has said that he will pull through his recovery.
Hearing his retirement, wishes and prayers are pouring at in large numbers in the social networks. Here are few.
Of all his innings, Mark Boucher would be remembered of his unbeaten 58 in 2006 Johannesberg ODI which helped South Africa to clinch the match and the series. He will also be remember for sledging Tatenda Taibu in which he said, ” Say your series average and I will walk you till the changing room…”
The man deserves a standing ovation for his contribution to the South African cricket. We wish and pray for his speedy recovery.
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