Jacob Martin comes out of retirement

Jacob Martin, the Baroda batsman who also played 10 ODIs for India, has decided to come out of retirement and prepare for the 2008-09 domestic season.

Martin, 36, had quit all forms of the game in the middle of last season but felt he had taken the decision too hastily. "There were a lot of reasons for me quitting at the time. I was injured too," he told Cricinfo. "But I realised I had taken the decision too quickly, even though I had a bit more cricket left in me."

Baroda had a relatively successful season despite losing the services of Martin, one of the most experienced players. They reached the semi-finals and looked good to win that too before Gautam Gambhir's outstanding 136 upset their plans against Delhi. Baroda appeared to be favourites when Delhi began their run-chase of 271 but Delhi stormed to victory on the back of a fine opening stand.

Martin looked forward to enhance his reputation as a prolific domestic batsman. He has scored 8563 runs at 48.10 from 127 matches, with 23 centuries and 44 half-centuries. In the 1998-99 domestic season, Martin made over 1000 runs, a feat accomplished by only five players before him, and a couple after.

He also said he would be open to join the Indian Premier League if the opportunity arose. "Obviously it will be great to play in the IPL next season and I will take up the chance if it comes along."