Daniel Vettori's decision to opt out of a 2013-14 contract with New Zealand Cricket is a magnanimous and pragmatic move. It leaves him with no pressure, no obligations and no regrets trying to resurrect his 16-and-a-half-year international career after surgery on his left Achilles tendon.
The 34-year-old is street-wise. If he was to keep taking the cash, knowing he was unlikely to get game time, it could be perceived as money-grubbing when another player could benefit from full-time NZC employment. Vettori should already be on the way to financial independence through the Indian Premier League and other T20 sideshows in addition to his NZC contracted years.
Vettori has little to prove. His footprint on New Zealand cricket history is vast. This gesture buys him time to structure his return and, if not, offers an escape from the public spotlight to consider his future. Beyond bat and ball there appear to be a number of suitors. Newspapers would clamber for his thoughts; his articulate, savvy observations could also suit radio and television is always looking for the next former 'big name'.
Alternatively, a role as an assistant or specialist coach - like he had briefly with the Brisbane Heat over summer - which keeps him involved on the playing side, could be an option. Perhaps he could start like Stephen Fleming in the IPL and blossom into a role in the national ranks, like Shane Bond.
Yet sometimes the greatest players struggle to inject the wisdom gleaned from personal success into their charges. Vettori also needs to ask if he wants to remain in a spotlight he has never stepped away from since walking out in white against England in February 1997. A more ordinary life away from the glare might appeal.