'Drained' Pollock bids farewell

3 February 2008

Shaun Pollock waves goodbye as his international career ends in fine fashion © Getty Images

South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock admitted he was “emotionally drained” after bringing the curtain down on his international career by hitting the winning runs against West Indies.

In a rain-affected game in Johannesburg, the Proteas won by eight wickets to seal a 5-0 series success, but all eyes were on Pollock on his final international appearance.

“I would like to thank South Africa Cricket for giving me the chance to represent such a passionate nation,” he said. “It’s been a wonderful journey.

“I feel emotionally drained. At all of the five venues I’ve played my last five games, the supporters at every ground have carried me through.”

Pollock, who was named South Africa’s joint man of the series alongside JP Duminy, paid tribute to his team-mates, saying: “It’s been fantastic.

“We’ve made some wonderful friendships and we’ve played some awesome cricket over the years. Things are looking very good and I’m sure we’ll go from strength to strength.”

Man of the match Herschelle Gibbs, who struck a brutal 102 off 84 balls to help his side reach a revised target of 211 from 31 overs, claimed Pollock had been an ambassador for South African cricket.

Pollock walks out to bat for the final time for South Africa

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“He’s not only a role-model for everyone, he’s a legend of the game and a true gentleman,” Gibbs said. “I’m just happy he could bow out the way he should.”

Captain Graeme Smith revealed the series had been emotional for the whole squad, saying: “It’s been heavy but it’s been great. It was something special to be a part of.”

He also paid tribute to the crowds, who turned out in their numbers to say goodbye to Pollock.

“The emotions they’ve shown Shaun have been unbelievable and we’d like to thank them,” he added.

West Indies skipper Dwayne Bravo said: “Congratulations to Shaun Pollock on a successful career and I wish him all the best.”

He admitted injuries had hamstrung his side’s efforts in the series, adding: “Injuries were big setbacks for us and we were always on the back foot.

“I must give credit to the guys who stepped up to the plate. I’m so proud of the guys.”

West Indies were at least competitive in the final match, posting 295 for seven thanks in no small part to 91 from Devon Smith.

Bravo told his players to take heart from their performance and follow South Africa’s lead: “We have a lot to learn and we’ll be following in their footsteps.”