Talking about cricketing legends, I just couldn’t resist writing about my favorite Steve Waugh. Although it’s Sir Donald Bradman who tops my list of all time favorites but Steve comes close second to him. Not many cricketers have ended their careers in a better manner than Australia’s Steve Waugh. I remember him making his debut as a 20 year-old in international cricket when India toured down under in 1985-86 and since then he has evolved as a true cricketer of the game.

Starting off his career as an all-rounder, who joined the team of bits and pieces ODI players like Simon 0’Donell, Craig McDermott and Greg Matthews, who commented once that- ‘ The talent that I possess is equal to that of Steve’s little finger’.
 
Steve was a batsman who delivered when it really mattered; he was the one who always mixed up his bowling with slow deliveries which often foxed batsmen during slog overs. Although not very elegant and classy but still batted with great discipline, grit and determination, which was very evident throughout his career.

I hate to compare Steve’s tons with all time greats but many would agree that out of his 32 hundreds 25 were surely match saving or match winning knocks.

Known as a gentleman cricketer and a thorn in the flesh for many bowlers, he went on to lead Australia to victory in the 1999 World Cup and after that created history by captaining a side to 16 consecutive Test victories.

After all, one can only dream of a career like Steve’s.