Courtney Walsh takes time out from his book signing at Sangster's Book Store, Sovereign Centre, to answer a call. - Michael SloleyBy Charmaine Austin,
Staff Reporter
RUMOURS of Courtney Walsh prolonging his record-breaking Test career were laid to rest yesterday when he confirmed his retirement from Test cricket at the end of the fifth Test against South Africa.
The 38-year-old fast bowler, whose 513 Test wickets make him the world's leading wicket-taker, made the announcement official after the West Indies' practice session at Sabina Park.
"Yes, I've decided to call it a day. This is definitely it for me now. I'm still enjoying competing and I may continue doing that but not at this high level," Walsh said.
Nothing, it seems, can reverse the decision made by the prolific bowler to call it quits after an 18-year profesional career.
His first professional game was in 1983 when he went to England to play in the County Leagues. Everything seemed to fall into place after that for the lanky pacer, who has been playing non-stop since.
"This is my final Test match," Walsh said. "Nothing has happened to change my decision at this point in time and I don't foresee anything happening. I haven't even thought about what could possibly change it.
"What I'm thinking about is the five days ahead that I'm going to try and enjoy and make it a memorable Test match. I've made up my mind. This is definitely it."
Ambassador Walsh, who sees himself as the "daddy of the youngsters", hopes to make contributions to local and maybe even West Indies youth development.
"Just because I've quit does not mean I'm going to give up cricket totally. I got a lot out of cricket and I want to be able to make contributions in whatever way I can towards the development of the sport and to the youngsters.
"I'm more than happy and willing to help in any way I can, even if my help is needed at the West Indies level," he said.
After this Test, Walsh says he will take at least a six-month break from all competition to focus on himself and his family.
"It's been a long haul. A lot of ups and downs. Right now, I need to take a break and cool off for a while. Maybe six months. I'm very close to my family, my mother, my daughter and my son, and I try to spend as much time with them as I can, but after this I will be able to give them more of me.
"I'm really looking forward to doing this after this game when the boots are hung up," he said before heading off to a book-signing engagement at Sovereign Centre.
