The saga is unlikely to end here.Tim de Lisle is editor of Wisden Cricketers' Almanack 2003.timdelisle62 hotmail . Alec Stewart prepared for his 129th Test yesterday at Edgbaston in the same meticulous manner he has for the past 14 years. England's second greatest all-rounder warmed up diligently, went to a corner of the ground and began his usual practice routine. He then took some edged catches from the England coach before visiting the nets for a bat.
England's most-capped cricketer was not about to start taking things for granted, even if he had announced he would retire from Test cricket at the end of this summer. Hussain's address was followed by a gentle round of applause, a few handshakes and the odd pat on the back.England's players were not the only people to be caught out by the Surrey veteran's sudden decision. There have been rumours knocking around, but judging from the bewildered look on Duncan Fletcher's face as he sat next to him at the press conference, neither had he known anything until breakfast yesterday morning.The timing of Stewart's decision is strange because the last thing he would want his actions to do is overshadow England's preparations for an important five-Test series against South Africa. The limelight has never been something the 40-year-old has looked for Respect and admiration - yes Glamour - no. Stewart has always been a private man who has attempted to protect himself and his family from the headlines.It is only on reflection that the timing of Stewart's announcement becomes understandable.
Throughout his career few colleagues have got close to the elegant right-hander. During his 22 years in the game he has given little away and has kept most people at arms' length. This was the main reason why captaincy did not sit comfortably with him.Stewart has, however, always wanted to be in control of himself and things around him, which could explain why he seldom touches alcohol. Like all top players he would have wanted to be responsible for the end of his career rather than to be told by the selectors. Following Chris Read's impressive display during the recent one-day series Stewart may have felt this time was approaching.Stewart was 26 when he made his Test debut at Sabina Park, Jamaica, in February 1990. His selection for the Caribbean came after England lost the Ashes, but had as much to do with the bulk of the side deciding to go on a rebel tour to South Africa as the runs he was scoring for Surrey.
