New Zealand series may be the last for VVS Laxman as the classy Hyderabadi mulls retirement

Classy VVS Laxman may call it a day after the first Test against New Zealand, says a report in The Times Of India, adding that it all began 16 years ago against the visiting South Africans in Ahmedabad and after 134 matches and 17 hundreds, Vangipurappu Venkata Sai Laxman's Test journey is likely to end at home.

"Laxman has decided to announce his retirement from international cricket on Saturday. He spoke to me this morning and said he is quitting Test cricket," one of his former teammates told ToI on Friday.

"Asked if it was a sudden decision, Laxman said that he had been thinking about the move for some time now and felt it was time to take a final call," the source added. "Laxman said that he will continue to play domestic cricket for another two or three years. He is keen on revamping the Hyderabad team and grooming youngsters."

Meanwhile Mail Today writes that the sun may soon set on one of the most joyous visuals in world cricket - the wristy elegance of Vangipurappu Venkata Sai Laxman.

“The stylish Hyderabadi cricketer is all set to call it a day after the two-Test series against New Zealand, commencing on August 23, in his home town Laxman is expected to make the announcement on his retirement in a day or two. The man who has earned the moniker 'Very Very Special' for his masterful strokeplay has been out of form for the last two seasons, and reportedly told his close friends and a few sports correspondents on Friday that he had decided to retire from international cricket,” says the report.
He also said he would like to make an announcement to this effect before the commencement of the India-New Zealand Test series, for which he has been picked.

Meanwhile Hindustan Times reports that a time comes when even the greatest have to bow out and this could happen on Saturday with strong indications that the two Tests against New Zealand could be VVS Laxman's last tango in international cricket. Seen as a warm-up for the big battles ahead, the news will lift the profile of the low-key series.

Starting at home, Laxman will be the cynosure of all eyes in the first Test and the Hyderabadi stylist will continue to be the main attraction of the series. There's no official confirmation yet, but the player admitted to a newspaper that he was discussing retirement plans with his parents, family members, coaches and friends. "A final decision will be taken about the exact details of my plans by this evening," Laxman said on Friday.