MALCOLM SPEED (ICC chief executive): "The word `great' can be overused but in Brian Lara's case it is definitely merited. As a batsman, he has provided superb value to all fans of the game over 17 years. It is always sad when a player leaves the stage, especially when it is someone of Brian's stature, but he has left us with some fantastic memories and for that cricket owes him a great deal."

WES HALL (former West Indies fast bowler): "I am lost for words. He was a great servant to West Indies cricket. His legacy is fantastic, a great batsman, 400 in a test, 501 in first-class cricket, I mean it's a big legacy."

MICHAEL HOLDING (former West Indies fast bowler): "He stayed on longer than he should have. Now it is time to thank him and look forward."

JOEL GARNER (former West Indies fast bowler): "It is his decision to retire and I can't say that it's wrong. A captain can only by judged by his success record and that's not good in his case. Now we have to take drastic steps to carry West Indies cricket forward."

MICHAEL VAUGHAN (England captain): "He is a legend of the game, he has done wonders for the game of cricket not just in the Caribbean but the world."

KIRAN MORE (Former Indian wicketkeeper): "He is a genius. He is a great player to watch and a great entertainer. I have never missed Lara's innings wherever he has played since most of the matches are played on television. Today also, if any old match of Lara is being showed, it is a pleasure to watch."

RAHUL DRAVID (Indian captain): "He's been a treat to the game. One of the joys of my cricket career has been watching Lara bat."

JACQUES KALLIS (South African batsman): "It has been a privilege playing against him. Running in to bowl, you certainly have to make sure you are on top of your game. He is one of the wickets when you do get it you sort of remember as a prize wicket. He has certainly taken West Indies and world cricket to a new level.

MARK BOUCHER (South African wicketkeeper): "I learnt things keeping behind him and watching him play. Brian and I have played a lot of golf. So I'm hoping to continue that rivalry on the golf course. He has been a gentleman on the field and off the field.

FORBES PERSAUD (Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Board chief): "I believe that Lara would have been a big asset playing (more) tests for the West Indies."