Ian Chappell Announces Retirement from 52-Year Cricket Writing Career

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Ian Chappell, the former captain of Australia, has concluded his five-decade journalism career, writing his last column for ESPNcricinfo on February 23, 2025. He felt that it was time to "put down the pen and pack away the computer" and move on from his second innings, stating that quitting writing was as emotionally taxing as retiring from cricket. Chappell mentioned that he has been writing for over 50 years, but the time has come and this will be his last column, as retirement from journalism is similar to cricket - he knew the time was right.

The Australian went on to say that although he was meticulous about deadlines, his wife helped him get near to them sometimes. He never missed a deadline, despite coming close a couple of times, and his wife Barbara-Ann has been a positive influence both as an excellent sub-editor and also by telling him. Chappell will miss filing a column, as writing has been a favoured task, and a writing career spanning more than 50 years means he surpassed his journey both as a cricketer and a broadcaster.

Recalling some of the best moments from his 52-year career, Chappell dropped a special mention of India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar's battle against late great Shane Warne in the 1998 Chennai Test. The 81-year-old said it was among the few good articles he had written, which included VVS Laxman's iconic 281 against Australia in Kolkata. Some of the recent cricket matches include:

• India won by 6 wickets (with 45 balls remaining) against Pakistan
• Zimbabwe won by 3 wickets (with 4 balls remaining) against Ireland
• U.S.A. won by 8 wickets (with 29 balls remaining) against Oman
• Pakistan HKG won by 5 wickets (with 8 balls remaining) against DLSWC
• Kowloon CC won by 5 runs against USRC

Chappell's retirement from cricket writing has come amid the Champions Trophy 2025, where several teams are competing for the top spot. The tournament has seen some exciting matches, with teams like India, Pakistan, and Australia showcasing their skills. Chappell's writing career has been a long and illustrious one, and he will be missed by cricket fans around the world.

Chappell's decision to retire from cricket writing has been met with respect and admiration from the cricket community. His contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come, and his writing will continue to inspire and inform cricket fans around the world. As the Champions Trophy 2025 continues, fans will be looking forward to seeing which team will emerge victorious, and Chappell's legacy will live on through his writing and his contributions to the sport.