Baichung Bhutia retires - End of an Era

Long-time India captain Baichung Bhutia earlier today at Football House in Dwarka, New Delhi announced his retirement from international. It marks the end of an era which started in 1995 with a match against Thailand on March 10, 1995 at the Nehru Cup in Kolkata and ended on January 18, 2011 with a substitute appearance against South Korea at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup.



"It is a hard decision for any footballer to decide on his retirement and I wasn't any exception. But everyone has to retire one day. I wanted to retire after playing a match but recurring injuries prevented me from donning the India jersey for one more time," Baichung Bhutia announced in front of over a hundred journalists who had come for the occasion.



"I'm lucky enough to still be associated with football. My association with United Sikkim Football Club and my Football Schools will keep me going," an emotional Baichung added.



AIFF General Secretary Kushal Das handed the Sikkimese sniper a specially designed silver plaque and a shawl in the name of the federation.



Lauding Baichung's achievements Kushal Das said, "All good things come to an end and the AIFF will be seeking his support for the future development of the sport in the country.”



AIFF President Praful Patel in a public message thanked Baichung for his contribution to Indian football. "I thank Baichung Bhutia for his wonderful contribution to Indian football and the joy he has provided to all Indians by his performance and leadership of the Indian Team in a long and illustrious career. He is a true icon of Indian Football and it is indeed a sad day that he has decided to hang his boots from International Football."



Baichung Bhutia has done a lot for Indian football on and off the field, now his contribution will be more off the field...