Former India player and Bengal captain Rohan Gavaskar announced his retirement from first-class cricket yesterday. Son of batting legend, Sunil Gavaskar, Rohan played 11 ODIs for India. Rohan, who played his first-class cricket for Bengal, scored 5073 runs in 75 matches at 51.24.


Excerpts from a chat:

Any regret in your 15-year first-class career?
My only regret is not winning the Ranji Trophy for Bengal. We were twice in the finals in consecutive years, but couldn't win it.

What made you opt to play for Bengal?
Mumbai had great batting line-up at that time and I wouldn't have got the opportunity to play first-class cricket for Mumbai immediately. I would have to wait for another one or two years, which I didn't want to. Bengal gave me that opportunity and I grabbed it with both hands. I am really thankful to Bengal for giving me the opportunity.

What about playing for the country?
Every cricketer aspires to play for the country and I am blessed to have represented India.

Did the name of Sunil Gavaskar prove to be additional pressure for you?
Not at all. Had he not been my dad, I probably wouldn't have ended up playing cricket. I am proud to have played first class cricket for 15 years and the fact that only Pankaj Roy and Arun Lal are ahead of me in terms of Ranji Trophy runs for Bengal. I wouldn't have made it this far if I didn't have the cricketing genes of Sunil Gavaskar.

What are your plans now?
I haven't left cricket, to be specific. I have quit playing cricket, but will be associated with the game. I also have my business commitments and am running Pune FC football club. I would get myself involved in some television work too.