Sky Sports' Director of Cricket Bryan Henderson has denied reports that West Indies legend Michael Holding has retired from commentary.
Reports surfaced on Wednesday claiming that Holding had decided to retire from broadcasting after spending more than 20 years as part of Sky's acclaimed cricket coverage.
However, Henderson was quick to refute these claims, responding to a tweet about Holding's retirement and writing: "It's not true"
Last year, Holding spoke about his future as a commentator, saying: "I am not too sure how much further than 2020 I will be going with commentary.
"I cannot see myself going much further down the road at my age. I am 66 years old now, I am not 36, 46 or 56.
"I told [Sky] that I could not commit to more than a year at a time. If this year gets totally destroyed, I might have to think about 2021 because I can't just walk away from Sky, a company that has done so much good for me."
Despite the confusion over his reported retirement, tributes quickly poured in for the 67-year-old.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted: "Michael Holding is a legendary bowler .. Commentator .. Campaigner .. but even a more so a GREAT guy who will be sorely missed around the Comm boxes .. Happy retirement Mikie .."
Ex-West Indies quick Ian Bishop also wrote: "From the very first day I met him, Michael Holding has always been kind, understanding and encouraging to me; even when I messed up.
"I am privileged to call him friend and mentor. I will celebrate and be thankful the teachings he brought."
India wicketkeeper Dinesh Karthik, who worked with Holding on Sky's coverage of the recent England vs India Test series, tweeted: "Michael HOLDING - “Mikey” An absolute gentleman with a strong view but a soft hearted , warm person .
"The kind of person you’d walk into a war with . Spent little time with him,but made plenty of memories. Loved his straight forward nature and his warm laugh Happy retirement"
