Kirsten has been a father figure, says Raina

[jpkonline]

Just as Gary Kirsten strutted on to the pitch after India's historic win at the Wankhede Stadium, Suresh Raina came rushing from behind and carried Kirsten on his shoulder for a lap of honour. It seemed as if the South African was a six-year-old boy who had just seen his father win a medal. It was difficult to tell who was the pupil, and who the tutor. Raina has been Kirsten's biggest admirer, claiming that the South African was the best thing to happen to Indian cricket since Sachin Tendulkar, during a chat with MiD DAY a week prior to the World Cup. None would miss Kirsten's presence in the dressing room more than Raina, who had organised a special farewell gift for his guru. "I am going to miss him dearly. He has been a father figure, a coach, a friend, and a teammate. His departure would leave a big hole in the dressing room," an emotional Raina said. "We organised a big party for him after the win, it was dedicated to both him and Sachin. It was a big family gathering. "I will miss Kirsten because he is someone who respects your thoughts and privacy. The most important thing is the way he communicated with us. He never tried to impose anything. "Gary has been more than just a coach to me. I want to dedicate this World Cup win to Sachin and Gary. My only aim is to keep in mind everything he has taught me." Kirsten is scheduled to return to South Africa on Thursday http://sports.ndtv.com/world-cup-2011/features/specials/item/171645-gary-kirsten-has-been-a-father-figure-says-suresh-raina-after-world-cup-win

[b555]

[Sachin=GOD]

Indian cricket will miss Kirsten sorely :((

[Prakat]

So happy to see the Team being so vocal in their praise about the "foreign" coach. Everyone has something to say about his effect.

[Karan114]

What a man Kirsten is - to leave behind such a lasting impact on every member of the team, with everyone from a legend like Sachin to a youngster like Raina citing the difference he has made to Indian cricket.

[Switchblade]

:hatsoff: Guru Garry

[akshayxyz]

:hatsoff:

[ganeshran]

Kirsten we will miss you more than any other coach till now :hatsoff:

[kabira]

stephen Fleming will be ideal choice, he already works with MSD so they have good rapport

[vvvslaxman]

It is not about money. Coach have to be prepared for a long stay with Indian team. It is a very high pressure job.

[glogirl]

stephen Fleming will be ideal choice' date=' he already works with MSD so they have good rapport[/quote'] Earlier there were talks about flem to be indian coach post world cup, but he wasn't willing to coach india, coz it will be full time where else CSK only three months a year. plus he is happy with some business and wanna spend more time with family.