Of all the players I have played with and against over the years, there is no doubt Stephen Waugh is the one cricketer and captain who has had the greatest influence on my career.
Like many of my teammates and peers from around the world, it has been his shining example, on and off the field, which has him revered by all who know him, or even those who wish they knew him.
 Playing under Steve Waugh's captaincy has been a privelege |
His retirement announcement came as something of a shock, but it was typical of the man to keep his feelings close to his chest - even from those closest to him. Despite his monumental century at the Sydney Cricket Ground against England a year ago, speculation about his career has continued to enthuse certain sectors of the media.
And, although I have questioned him many times in the last 12 months about how he was feeling about the future, he continually and determinedly replied that he would keep playing while the fire was burning and while he was enjoying the constant pressure of the contest.
Having played domestic cricket against 'Tugga' in the last few weeks, this fire certainly hasn't dimmed as I believe he is batting and competing as well now as I have ever seen him.
 |  He is truly a champion of the game |
There is no way he could have enjoyed the same success as he has since January's globe-stopping hundred if the fire wasn't still burning like an angry inferno.
Statistically, this last year of his illustrious career speaks for itself, so I was a little surprised that Stephen has decided to bow out now, when he admits he is batting very well and feels as fit as he has for many years.
My theory when quizzed about his retirement has always been that I thought he would give it away when he had had enough of leaving home, and particularly leaving his fantastic wife Lynette and their three beautiful kids.
Being a father myself, I know what he has to go through every time he walks out of the door for another long distance relationship with your most loved ones.
 Leaving your family behind to go on tour is never easy |
Basically, it is very hard work. Proving my prediction right, Steve admitted on Wednesday that the final straw in making his decision was when his eldest daughter Rosie told him that she didn't want him to go away any more.
This plea has been brewing for some time and now he has finally been beaten, not by the opposition bowlers, a wilting body or the pressure of the media storm but by his eight-year-old daughter who obviously holds more weight than any of the standard or speculated reasons for him finishing.
It is only fitting that the old warhorse goes out on top.
He has always been in control as a batsman and captain and he is now finishing in control of his destiny.
The next month should be a wonderful experience for Stephen and the team.
Playing against India in front of adoring crowds the scene is set for one of the great send offs for an International sportsman.
No-one deserves the assured accolades more because no-one has done more to honour the Baggy Green cap and the spirit of our great game of cricket like S.R Waugh has over two decades.
He is truly a champion of the game who will bow out in a month leaving the sort of legacy that could only be left by a true legend.
MMIX
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