Kolkata, Sept. 3 -- Former India cricketer Sourav Ganguly praised Lionel Messi's illustrious international career following his retirement announcement, saying the Argentine great has left a legacy that will be difficult to match.

Ganguly also expressed hope that great footballing nations like Argentina will produce another world-class player in the future.

Messi announced his retirement from international football on August 31, at the age of 39.

Speaking to reporters, Ganguly said Lionel Messi's retirement is an inevitable part of sport, praising his remarkable career and legacy.

"This is what sport is all about. The best have to retire someday. He's been absolutely brilliant over a long period of time. But that's inevitable in sport...