Sunny Side Up – Glimpses of Sunny Sohal’s life

08 April, 2010 |

Outspoken, with film star looks and a passion for cricket, Sunny Sohal, at 22, is symbolic of the dawn for teenagers in Punjab. He has represented India in the under-19s, plays for Punjab in the Ranji Trophy and is a part of the Kings XI Punjab side. The right-handed batsman from Mohali also impresses with his forthright attitude to life, relationships and music....

How are you doing?

Am good, thanks. Been practising hard. Want to concentrate and improve in the right areas. If I get a call for a game, I want to be ready.

What are your plans for the rest of the day?

Well, got a practice session scheduled. Then I will pray a little. Will pray that our team comes up trumps and wins whichever games they can.

Playing for Kings XI Punjab is a unique experience where many players from different countries mingle with the local culture. How has it made a difference to you?

You’re right. There are so many players from all over the world. I definitely want the experience of the senior pros to rub off on me.

How is it different when you play for the Kings XI Punjab than when you play in the Ranji Trophy for Punjab?

Well, they’re different formats and the pressures are different. But of course, it’s important to enjoy the game. You see, if you perform well in the Twenty20 format, it will help your game overall.

Do you watch or play any other sports?

(Gets excited) The Kabaddi World Cup is taking place in Punjab right now. I enjoy watching and supporting it. I also watch football.

Kabaddi! So, you’re a typical Punjabi. Makkhan-Shakkhan (butter and foods) and hardy sports, right?

Yeah, absolutely.

Do you have a girlfriend?

No, I had a girlfriend earlier. But right now am single.

So, all the girls can approach you now?

Yes (smiles)

What’s your idea of the perfect girl?

I like simple girls. I think that’s a quality that is so attractive. I don’t like the ‘babes’ kind.

The ‘babes’ kind?

Yeah, just clarifying that my I like a girl who can be comfortable with my mother and father and of course, since Indian culture is so much a part of me.

Are you planning marriage sometime soon?

(Retorts) Not yet. I have to play for six or seven more years.

Do you listen to music?

Yes, of course.

What kind of music?

I like only Punjabi music with the dhol and the drums. Like that of Gurdas Mann. There’s a new singer these days, Satinder Sardar, whose music I also like.

Can you sing yourself?

Not really. Only in the bathroom. When I get bored or feel low, music gives me energy. Some hip-hop will also do.

Ah, you also listen to hip hop.

Yeah.

I just like the music; I don’t understand the lyrics.

That’s cool. Nobody understands hip hop lyrics anyway!

Can you remember any funny moments on the field?

Yeah, I remember when Virat Kohli was fielding, his shoe came off. That was funny.

Which is your favourite hangout place in Chandigarh?

That would be Sectors 8, 9, 10, 11. That’s where the girls, and of course, the boys hang out. You just cross paths with so many people, some who you already know.

So, that’s a message to the girls? “Land up at Sector 8.”

That’s 8, 9, 10 and 11 to be specific! (Laughs)

Do you watch movies?

Not really. I like Aamir Khan’s movies. The last movie I saw was 3-Idiots.

Do you like to party?

Not much. When I’m at home I don’t usually go for parties. But right now, since I’m in the team hotel, after a hard day’s cricket I don’t mind a party.

Which is your favourite drink?

That’ll be Coke?

Which would you say has been your best performance in the IPL so far?

In the last season, when I played against the Mumbai Indians, I scored 40 off 17 balls.

Well, Sunny, we’re sure you’ll put in great performances going forward too. Have a great tournament and enjoy your time with the Lions.

Surely, I will. Thank you.