The Love Story

09 March, 2010 |

Love Ablish, Tony Greig commented once, is a lovely name, leave alone his game. The pacer from Punjab is all set to prove his worth in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab. He took some time off after some gruelling nets:

How different will it been playing in the IPL among so many ethnicities?
One learns a lot.

So, what have you learned?
This is my first IPL but I've had experience of a similar league featuring international players. Andrew Hall, the ex South African quickie talked to me about variations and also how to read a batsman?

Enough cricket. What food do you like?
Am not a great connoiseur of food. Gaajar Mattar (carrot-and-peas curry) if you insist.

What's your routine when you're not preparing for a big tournament like you are right now?
Am an early riser, 5 o'clock. Love to play volleyball till the sun comes out in my hometown Doraha. Lunch at 2 o'clock and then a fitness session in the evening.

How do your relax?
I love to swim. Also listen to music.

Who's your favourite singer?
Gurdaas Mann.

Do you watch or play any other game?
Well, apart from playing volleyball, I watch tennis.

So, who's your favourite tennis player?
Leander Paes

But what about greats like Federer?
Maybe. But am an Indian and will support Indians. Sorry, but that's just me!

What do the Lions from Punjab have that give them and edge?
It's Yuvi.

Why him?
The kind of player that he is.... he can turn the game around in a matter of minutes.

Do you have a favourite hangout place in Chandigarh?
Haven't got around much here. But back home in Doraha, we just hop over to nearby Ludhiana to a restaurant called Aman Chicken.

You like chicken?
Well, i don't eat non veg food. I just go there to have Cheese Raada (a gravy), but it's a nice place.

Are you a coffee drinker?
What made you think that? Nah, am a tea drinker.

Which is your favourite city outside your hometown?
Bangalore

Why?
The weather's good. Oh, Srinagar's good too.

Coming back to your cricket, what fitness activity do you like the most?
Well, I work for results. I feel sit-ups have to be done correctly. They strengthen vital body parts.

As a child, which cricketer inspired you?
Kapil Paaji