Monday, February 28, 2011

Interview with Aleem Dar

Aleem Dar
Interview with Aleem Dar
The Umpire of the years
2009 & 2010

Aleem Sarwar Dar is an international umpire from Pakistan. He has now officiated in over 200 international matches, including the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup Final. He is also a two-time winner of the prestigious ICC Umpire of the Year award.

Question: Firstly, congratulations on winning this prestigious award for the second time. A great honor for you, and for Pakistan - and a very well deserved one too. Your role as an umpire is a shining example for other umpires, both at the international level now and those aspiring to reach that level in the future.

Aleem Dar: Thank you very much.

Question: Why did you become an umpire? What was the reason that prompted you to make this career choice?

Aleem Dar: Cricket was my childhood passion as it is for most youngsters in the subcontinent. I, therefore, started playing cricket to fulfill my desire and to become a member of the National squad but unfortunately I could not find proper exposure to good club cricket as most of my teen age period was spent with my family in small towns and villages of the country due to the service career of my father, a policeman by profession.

In the year 1999, I settled in Lahore and started playing club cricket with P & T Gymkhana, a cricketing nursery of the metropolitan city in order to make up for any deficiencies in my game. I soon realized that perhaps it was too late to catch that train but I could not break by romance with my passion. I then made a life changing decision to shift my focus from occupying the crease as a player to staying on the turf as an umpire. Initially, I started supervising cricket matches in local club tournaments but there was hardly enough money to pursue that as a career and earn a living, so for a short interval, I thought of scrapping the whole idea. I was convinced otherwise by my beloved wife and the consistent perseverance of my respected friend Mr. Azhar Zaidi. 

In the year 2000, I restarted umpiring and supervised domestic national cricket tournaments. My good performance in the domestic tournaments highlighted my profile and I was spotted by ICC to be included in the ICC International Panel of umpires. In 2003, I was included in the umpires team for the World Cup in
South Africa and soon elevated to the Elite Panel of ICC in 2004. Since then, I have become an integral part of the ICC Elite Panel.

I am happy that Allah has made it easy for me to pursue my career as an Umpire. I am also very proud of winning laurels for my country, family and my club. 

Aleem Dar
 


Question: How did you become a top level umpire - where did you start off, and what steps did you take to improve as an umpire and get noticed at the highest levels?

Aleem Dar: As already explained above, I started my umpiring career in 1999 in local club tournaments and supervised national domestic cricket in 2000. In 2002, I was included in the ICC Panel of International Umpires, supervised World Cup 2003 and finally elevated to ICC Elite Panel of Cricket Umpires in 2004.

As with any sphere of life, my success as an international umpire is due to blessings from Allah, my own sincere hard work coupled with sincerity, consistency, confidence, self belief, professional competence and a constant drive for improvement.

Additionally, to further refine my skills as an umpire, I regularly play cricket for my club, play table-tennis, go to the gym and try to keep myself mentally and physically fit to endure the rigors of standing in a five days cricket test match. All these activities help me stick to the basic principle of cricket "Eye on the Ball" which is true for both playing and umpiring cricket. My efforts revolve around improvement in knowledge of cricket rules and sharpening my reflexes, which are primary ingredients to perform as a cricket umpire. 

My ability to perform in the field with a high ratio of correct decisions is mainly dependent on my efforts to continuously follow the positive routines discussed above has propelled me to prominence amongst others and to be spotted by the ICC in the initial phase of my career as umpire. However, the most important factor as stated above is the blessing of ALLAH. 


Question: What preparations and reviews do you do to monitor and improve your performance as a top international umpire?

Aleem Dar: To keep myself fit and available for my assignment as an International Cricket Umpire, I have to exercise all the rituals and processes discussed above.

However, specifically speaking, I also focus on ICC Code of Conduct, discipline and coordination with fellow Umpires. I avoid mixing with the press and public and to some extent with the players as well and I do not indulge in controversial statements.

I have never believed in favoritism and make maximum efforts to review decisions objectively, on their individual merit. By the Grace of Allah, till date, I am successful in fulfilling the requirements of my professional duty This simple policy routine has always helped me to maintain the level of expectations from my employer (ICC), players and the cricket loving public and also improve my output and performance on field. 


Question: Who is your favorite international umpire, of all time? Why?

Aleem Dar: Mr. Steve Buckner is my favorite International Cricket Umpire and my role model in the umpiring profession. He was closely associated with me in the initial part of my international career and lent me maximum support as a senior in the trade and guided me in carrying out my assignment. 


QuestionWho is your favorite Pakistani umpire, of all time? Why?

Aleem Dar: Mr. Ather Zaidi is my favorite Pakistani Cricket Umpire. I treat him as a mentor as he convinced me to adopt umpiring as profession and career. He taught me all the basic principles needed to become a good professional cricket umpire. The good habits, principles and characteristics related to my professional career which I have discussed above and strive to adopt, were basically brought into my life by Mr. Ather Zaidi, who still devotes time for my counseling and guidance. 


Question: Who are your role models, in life generally, and in cricket more specifically? Any umpires who you try and emulate?

Aleem Dar: My late father was my role model in my general life as he spent his whole life with honesty, even in a department like the Pakistan Police! He groomed all of his children to live in this society with honesty and dignity - teachings that are now part of our life.

In my cricket life Mr. Azhar Zaidi, a respected friend is a role model for me as he is the person who has always supported me in my difficult times and prompted me to restart my career as a cricket umpire when I was almost ready to quit it. As umpire, I do not emulate any one, as I have my own style and outlook towards umpiring which is distinctive and unique by itself. 


Question: Do you make an attempt on the field to get friendly with players, or do you prefer that umpire maintains a certain formality with the players he is officiating?

Aleem Dar: I am always friendly with the players on the field, but up to a permissible extent which may neither be regarded as arrogance nor be labeled as favoritism. An umpire is the official supervisor of the game and should always behave in the field in a dignified manner. I am by nature not a talkative person and refrain from instant friendships on field. 


Question: Traveling so much as an international umpire must take its toll on family life. How do you and your family deal with this? Do they ever travel with you? Which city are they based in, and how many days a year do you normally get to spend at 'home'?

Aleem Dar: As an International Cricket Umpire, I need to travel around the globe to fulfill my official obligations for almost 7 months a year which takes a natural toll on my family. However, my spouse is a very sacrificing lady who always balances my absence by giving more time and attention to our children and has never amassed any pressure on this score by happily accepting this challenge. 

This positive attitude of her's has provided me with the strength to fulfill my duties on the field without any tension and keep myself composed even in difficult situations. My family and I are permanently based in
Lahore where my children are getting their education in good schools and in their summer holidays, they often join me on tours, especially when I am performing in England


Question: What was your family's reaction on your winning this award, both last year and this year?

Aleem Dar: My family is always happy on my achievements and they pray for my success and glory. They rejoiced and bowed to Allah on both the occasions when I received consecutive awards as best umpire of the year. 


Question: Are there any upcoming and relatively unknown Pakistani umpires that you would recommend us to watch out for? Any future Aleem Dars out there?

Aleem Dar: There are many upcoming and young umpires in the domestic local and national tournaments who can groom themselves to perform excellently by watching seniors. However, they will have to concentrate on the basic principles I have outlined above. PCB shall have to also enhance facilities for the young and upcoming umpires in the domestic tournaments to encourage them, as are available in the International circuit. 


Question: Which bowlers have 'pestered' you the most while umpiring?

Aleem Dar: There are a few but not worth mentioning. 


Question: What kinds of player behavior, in your view, can effect an umpire's decision making ability? For example, a loud and theatrical appeal?

Aleem Dar: Players are always putting pressures on field umpires to get a decisions to their advantage but nowadays, match referees are also involved in the games which has reduced pressure on the field umpires. Nevertheless, an umpire should not succumb to the behavior of players but should rather base his decisions on merit and his own observations, carefully reviewing each decision in his mind before declaring it. 


Question: Thank you very much for your time. We wish you all the best and pray for your success in future. Allah Hafiz.

Aleem Dar: Thank you very much. It was pleasure talking to you. Allah Hafiz.

Aleem Dar

English Captain

 Andrew Strauss
 A Strauss
Strauss

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Interview with Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar


Interview with Sachin Tendulkar

There was a time when watching Sachin Tendulkar was exciting. Today it is a joy.
The free spirit is now the senior statesman in the team with new priorities and greater goals to achieve.
But that has not taken anything away from his batting prowess and his insurmountable achievements. His 141 in the second one-day game at Rawalpindi was one of the better one-day knocks witnessed in Pakistan.     
After returning to Pakistan, the country where he made his Test debut 15 years ago, it has been a dream come true for Tendulkar to be part of the first Indian team ever to win a cricket series in Pakistan in more than 50 years.

· Star-Sign: Taurus
· Team: India,Mumbai,Yorkshire,World XI,Rest of India
· First Class Debut: 1988
· Test Debut: 1989
· Most Remebering Day in Cricket : When 1st time seleted for the Indian Team,and when selected for the 1st test again Pakistan                    
· Worst Day in Cricket: Loosing the world cup semi final against Srilanka in 1996 
· Heroes in Cricket: Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Sandeep Patil, Viv Richards, Ian Botham
·  Whose impact on you : My Brothers Ajit and Nitin, My sister Savita, most Mother-Father, Wife Anjali,My coach, Uncle and aunt Suresh and Mangla Tendulkar
· Favorite player from Today's era : Brain Lara, Wasim Akram, Walsh, Shane Warne and Anil Kumble
· Players for Future: Rahul Dravid, Vikram Rathore, Amol Majumdaar  
· Your Aim in Cricket: To score lots of centuries and to play as many as test and one day    
· Favorite cricket Ground: Sydney Cricket Ground and Eden Gardens
· Least Favorite: None
· Complaints With Cricket: We should play more tests
· What should be done to improve cricket: Should be played in more countries and its popularity
· Most funny moment in Cricket: In 1990 when Narendra Hirwani came to bat at Old Trafford. Azhar gave him a new bat. The 1st ball he played with that bat was from Cris Lweis and the bat breaks into two pieces.
· Most Embracing Moment: Third match against Newzealand in 1994 at in Cricket Wellington.The situation was tense so I told  Ankola not to bowl any no balls or wide balls. I took a very good catch of Danny Morrisson and in excitement I threw the ball in air with. Batsmen still ran 2 runs- actullay the Umpire declared that ball as No-ball which I didn't heard
· Hobbies & Interests: Collecting Watches ,Perfumes, good clothes and CD's
· How you want to u spend your spare time: With my family
· Which Other Sports you like: Tennis
· Which Other sports personalities you like: Maradona and John McEnroe
· Favorite Actress /Actor: Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Demi Moore
· Favorite Serial: None
· Favorite Movie: God must be crazy
· Favorite Music: Michael Learns to Rock, Eagles and Michael Jackson
· What you hate? : Selfish and cunning people
· Cars: Mercedes Benz C-36, A.M.G Sports
· Favorite food: Anything made my mother
· Favorite drink: Cold Water
· Favorite place for holidays: Goa
· Favorite Hotel: Taj Hotel,Goa
· Favorite Restaurant. : Vintage and the Great Wall,Mumbai
· What type of cloth likes to wear: Jeans and T-Shirt & according to the occasion
· Newspaper: Mid-Day, Afternoon, Times Of India
· Favorite Author: I don't read much!!
· Favorite magazine: Sportstar
· After Cricket: Some business related to Cricket
· Motto of Life: Be true to yourself
Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar Recent Interview



'I knew all along that I'd get back with full force'

The unexpected shower hasn't helped. And that the rendezvous is not much of a landmark doesn't make things any easier. "It's the new MCA [Mumbai Cricket Association] stadium at Bandra Kurla," Sachin Tendulkar had explained. Now here, half soaked, at a stadium which is an oval patch of flaming green with labourers pottering around and a tin-roof shed, which I share with some masonry troupe, I am not sure this is what Sachin meant. After 15 minutes of worrying and then putting my mind to rest by another call to the Tendulkar home I see him kitbag and entourage in tow. Whew! "Should we get started?" he says, asking at the same time if I'd like water or tea...

You are in great form. The shoulder injury seems history. Nevertheless I am sure you realise that the time has come to make retirement plans.

The injury was blown out of proportion. It was less than five months that I hadn't played and people were writing my obituary. I knew all along that I'd get back with full force. And the reason behind my implicit faith is that I've never thought beyond cricket and playing for India. Yes, maybe retirement is round the corner but I just can't get myself to think or plan about it. It muddles me. Somehow I am programmed only to think cricket. Right up till the very last time I walk out on the pitch my focus will only be cricket. Once I retire I should be content. Not repentant that in those crucial final years my focus was elsewhere. I don't want to retire with the feeling that in wasting time planning life post-retirement I missed out on bigger cricketing achievements. Now in fact is the time for me to focus like never before. Also cricket is forever evolving so it's not that difficult. In '89 when I started out, cricket was different and I don't know what might change next - I cannot lose focus at all to keep in step with the game. Let my agents look after opportunities beyond cricketing years while I play.
Sachin Tendulkar

Are you saying that you don't spare a thought for your endorsement deals, your restaurants and probing other business propositions?

You may not believe me but the answer is no. Where Tendulkar's is concerned, yes, I was involved in the launch phase. But again the extent of my involvement was in ensuring the restaurant is a reflection of my tastes in food and dcor. But beyond that no, not at all. I do go there when I have the time because it's my kind of place and I like it. But I will not get involved in the details. If it makes a profit I will not work on doubling the returns and if it makes a loss I will not sit with the management and work out a revival strategy. I won't. To do that I have hired agents, partnered with people proficient in these matters so that my focus is 100% cricket. Even in my endorsements - all preliminary work is done by my agents. I don't get involved at any stage and they only bring things up to me for the final call. I have to ensure my focus is uni-dimensional, and that is cricket

Surely at times you feel a sense of power beyond measure? Your endorsements are heftier than even Amitabh Bachchan's. Global icons like Michael Schumacher and Dire Straits are your admirers...

I have never been after power. It means nothing to me; being recognised, being paid handsomely... I don't allow things outside of cricket to affect my psyche. And that was ingrained in me right at the start. My family grounded me; they never allowed success to go to my head. If there was an achievement we would all be happy, there would be a small celebration but it would never be loud. It was like a lesson on how to dilute the heady feeling of success. The talk in the house, after the pat on the back, would immediately be of the next goal. My father would close the earlier chapter and look at the possibilities ahead. Similarly my brother, who saw the spark in me and merged his goals with mine, was a huge driving force. Whenever I scored it would be what's next, he wouldn't go gaga, and that set the boundaries for celebration. That helped me a lot, really. If I play well automatically my focus is on the next 20 overs, the way my father would want it to be. Half my life I have been playing for India (takes a few seconds to calculate) nearly 55% of my life. Things have not happened overnight, it has taken long... There's a saying, which probably explains me the best, 'even if you are on the right track, you've got to move on'. I might be on the right track at the right place but my endeavour is always to move forward.

Your dream was to play for India and you've more than lived that dream for over 17 years. What keeps you going now?

Yes, I have lived my dream, my dream to play for India. When I was in school and my brother would coach me I would ask him, "When will I get to play for India?" I was so young, I didn't understand what playing for India meant and it was more like a nursery kid saying he wants to be a doctor. But from the day I picked up my bat my target was to play for India. And there was a second goal, to play as long as I could. It's that second goal that keeps me going, and with it the benchmarks that keep changing. When we were in school the benchmark was [Sunil] Gavaskar, all good and bad was measured against him. From thereon it's been a wonderful journey... I crossed the 34 100s benchmark set by him. What also keeps me going are the people around me who're just as involved in my game. When I was yet learning the ropes there were days when I wouldn't show up for practise and Achrekar Sir would come all the way from Shivaji Park looking for me. He'd find me and then take me back on his scooter. Behind my achievements have been tremendous efforts by Sir. Similarly my family always prods me on such that I never lose focus. My father, despite being a professor, accepted my passing marks knowing my focus was cricket. He would also ensure the right environment for me to grow as a cricketer; so right from the start the talk at home would always be cricket. Even today we rarely discuss anything else...

Is Anjali okay with talking cricket 24/ 7? Does she understand that she comes second after cricket?
In 1990 we met for the first time and yes, then she didn't know A, B, C of cricket. But 17 years is a long time to learn. She understands the game completely now and is very involved. In fact, more than my skill being put to test when I bat it is her nerves that take the strain. She gets really tense and can't move; she doesn't even drink water or eat while I am batting. She has played a momentous role in my life and I can't imagine an existence without her. She is the only one who understands me, she knows when I am stressed, when I am happy or when I am disappointed and knows just what to do. I share all my thoughts with her since she is my support system. Coming second to cricket? I think she has tolerated it all. She is a gold medallist pediatrician but she's given up her career for me. It's not easy handling the pressure that comes from being my wife, handling the home front since I am always travelling, bringing up the kids... She has never complained.

I am sure your children are not as understanding...

I think I make an ok father, I am not strict at all and more like their friend. I try my best to spend as much time as I can with the two of them. I realise that it's important that I am a part of their childhood. But they know that my priority is cricket and I have to sacrifice their time for it, and they seem to understand. Sara will soon be nine and is quite mature, never complains. But Arjun is not yet seven and often gets upset. Each time I have to go away he becomes quiet, or doesn't talk to me normally. He tries to cope with life without me but not without putting up a fight. This time he told me that he is tired that I am always going away from him and he'll lock all the cricket stadiums so I stay home. I'll make up to him though...

Do you feel then that there's too much cricket these days? Giving players no time for family... And do you find the time to head to London as you generally do?

I have always said that the emphasis should be on quality and not quantity of cricket. There has to be enough time in between to recuperate such that players can perform to the best of their ability. Yes, for me that recuperation time is generally in London, we were there for six weeks this summer. I like going there since I am allowed to breathe. I mean, people do recognize you but they let you lead a normal life. And I need that.

The Indian team has time and again repeated that this is just another game of cricket for them, but do you feel that extra edge when playing Pakistan?
Of course, it is a little more than playing anyone else. You realise that this is special when the calls from friends and well wishers increase. It is no doubt more challenging and more of a pressure game than playing any other country.
But eventually it is a game of cricket. My point of view is that when I am playing cricket I cannot think that this game is less or more important. I want to give my six hours of serious cricket on the ground and then take whatever the result. There will
always be expectations, but then you can't do much about it. 
You had sleepless nights before the game against Pakistan in the World Cup. How many sleepless nights have you had here playing back to back matches against Pakistan in Pakistan?
It has been very good here, but the World Cup game was different. It had a different significance to it. It was a crunch game for us because before that we hadn't done well in the World Cup.
This is obviously a big tour for us and I am happy we have been well prepared for it. The Australian tour was good for us; it was ideal preparation for us. We spent four months together and that really helped. As a team we figured out our strengths and weaknesses. It has been a very exciting tour, there is pressure and there is the joy of victory. But this tour will not match the World Cup game. 
How has the experience been so far with regard to the cricket?
It has been great. It has been a collective performance from the team. And that is the reason why this victory is great, because different players have made contributions to the win. Someone scored a quick 10 runs, someone got a run-out and the team clicked as a whole unit.
Peshawar was a different track and the toss was crucial, but other than that the whole team played well.
How would you describe the catch you took to dismiss Inzamam-ul-Haq in the final game?              
It was a crucial catch. I had it at the back of my mind that he had played that shot before in the first one-dayer in Karachi and in the fourth one-dayer in Lahore. I was ready for that catch, hoping that Inzy would go for the shot again. Inzy is a great player who can just take the game away from you. His wicket was very important.
How is the Pakistan bowling attack as compared to the bowling attack you played 15 years ago?
This is a good bowling side with a good blend of youth and experience. Shoaib Akhtar has been playing for 5, 6 years and is an experienced bowler. Along with Mohammad Sami and Shabbir Ahmed they form a formidable team. Saqlain Mushtaq has done well against us.
But the attack in 1989 had Imran Khan, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. That attack was more experienced. Imran Khan did not become Imran Khan overnight. He worked hard to become a legend. Wasim and Waqar were amazing bowlers. I would put them right up there with the best in the world.
Does the 136 you scored in Chennai play at the back of your mind on the eve of another Test series against Pakistan?
Before coming here I had a minor back problem and I thought whenever I play Pakistan I get a back problem. Why is that? But thankfully it has settled down now and I am fine. Even in South Africa during the World Cup when I played Pakistan I had a back problem and so also in Chennai.
But that defeat still is a huge disappointment for me. 
You have more runs than anyone else in international cricket. What is your ultimate goal?
There is no set goal. There is no target as such. I just keep it simple. Watch the ball and play it on merit.
I have played for 15 years and it has been a dream. I always had a dream to play for India but I never let it put pressure on me. I never let it affect me; instead I kept positive thoughts and made sure that I have something to show. I have never thought where I will go, or forced any targets on myself.
Sachin Tendulkar

Interview with Shahid Afridi


Interview with Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi
Question: What would Shahid Afridi be doing today if he had never become a cricketer?

Shahid Afridi: If I didn't play international cricket, I would have joined the Army.


Question: Did anyone coach your style of batting or is it completely natural?

Shahid Afridi: It's natural, I never had a coach teach me, my style of batting, nor do I believe in coaching at an international level.

Shahid Afridi

Question: Are you surprised that your 37 ball century record hasn’t been broken yet?

Shahid Afridi: Do you want someone to break it?


Question: Do you think you can break it again?

Shahid Afridi: No i don't think I could break it again but then records are there to be broken.


Question: Which other players do you think could break it?

Shahid Afridi: Who ever has a good game on their day could break it.


Question: Who were your cricketing heroes both Pakistani and non-Pakistani?

Shahid Afridi: Imran Khan was my ideal. Other than him I enjoyed watching Mark Waugh, Lara, Sachin & Inzi bhai.


Question: Have you ever been at the crease with a batsman, who was out-hitting, be it Ijaz, Imran Nazir, Razzaq, Azhar? Have you ever been challenged by another batsman to see who can score the fastest.

Shahid Afridi: Never, they don't want to try it.

Shahid Afridi
Question: You've already hit 303 International sixes; tell us about the most memorable sixes you've ever hit?

Shahid Afridi: I can remember about 3 or 4 years back during the VB series I hit some big sixes off McGrath and Lee's bowling, they're two of the best ODI bowlers in the world and I'd never thrashed their bowling before so that was some very memorable six hitting for me.


Question: What bowler have you most enjoyed hitting sixes against?

Shahid Afridi: It was during the same VB series and the bowlers were McGrath and Lee.


Question: What was your best performance with the ball in any form of cricket?

Shahid Afridi: It was under Inzi Bhai's captaincy during the
Bangalore test match vs India, my 3 wickets in the 2nd innings broke the Indian middle order and I'll never forget the way we won that match.


Question: What has been your best performance with the bat in any form of cricket?

Shahid Afridi: The 141 runs in scored in Chennai vs
India is an innings that I remember vividly to this day.
Shahid Afridi
Question: We've seen you bowl an 85 MPH spin delivery, why don't you bowl as quickie?

Shahid Afridi: Actually I started out as a fast bowler but people told me that I was chucking the ball, so I changed to spin.


Question: Did you ever consider becoming a fast bowler; you have the physique and power of a fast bowler so why did you choose to bowl spin?

Shahid Afridi: No, you see fast bowling is not an easy job. Especially if you are also a batsman as well as being a fast bowler, a fast bowler has to work harder than any other cricketer on his fitness.


Question: Do you still bowl fast in the nets?

Shahid Afridi: No I just stick to my leg spin.


Question: Your faster ball has enabled you to take many wickets. Why have you stopped bowling this type of delivery?

Shahid Afridi: The reason for that is that my faster delivery causes problems for the wicket keepers.


Question: Most cricketers want to make a name for themselves in Test cricket and they give more importance to their Test careers but you are more concerned about ODIs and dont seem to enjoy Test cricket even though you've been very successful when playing Test matches, why is that?

Shahid Afridi: (gets quite passionate about his answer) It's not that I don't like to play Test cricket, that's not the issue. They dont play me. There's no consistency in the way I'm picked to play Test cricket. Sometimes I'm playing and other times I dont even make the squad and it makes me think maybe its better that I just dont play any Test cricket at all. But as of now I really want to play Test cricket, I know that at this moment, the team needs me and I would do anything for the team.

Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi
Question: Why did you retire from Test cricket and what made you change your mind and come back?

Shahid Afridi: It was a rash decision on my part; I didn’t think it through properly before making the announcement. My well wishers were very upset with me and they convinced me that I should reverse my decision so I came back.


Question: Do you find that the constant crowd anticipation for you to hit every ball for 6 affects the way you bat? How do you counter act this? Does crowd pressure make you try to hit sixes every ball?

Shahid Afridi: It's very difficult for me because the plans I have in my head before I go out to bat get forgotten, when I go out there it's like hitting a wall of sound and I forget whatever we had discussed minutes earlier in the dressing room.

Question: How do you cope with pressure like that?

Shahid Afridi: (switches to English) I'm not very strong mentally, I'm straight forward.

Question: If in a few years in the future you became captain of
Pakistan, what changes would you make?

Shahid Afridi: If I am ever given the captaincy, I will be very tight on my players to keep them in line.


Question: Do you think the
Pakistan team of the last few years has been aggressive enough?

Shahid Afridi: Not really, we havent been aggressive enough.


Question: Is there any truth to the rumors that there is tension between you and Malik because on the field you always seem very close and friendly with each other.

Shahid Afridi: We get along just fine. It is sad that some people in the media like to create stories to sell their media, without any real facts to back up their stories.

Question: You're known as "The Beast" because of the way you destroy bowling and attacks and bowlers on the pitch. Do you have any beastly messages or quotes for your huge fan base?

Shahid Afridi: The only thing I would say to my fans is always try to understand and educate yourselves on the reasons why Allah has given you life, do that part first then enjoy the rest of life and Chill out...

Shahid Afridi

Interview with Ricky Ponting

'When Australia play, there is very good cricket'
Ricky Ponting

The Australian captain gives India their due as No. 1, warns of a bouncer barrage for Sehwag, and is optimistic about catching up with Tendulkar's centuries
"I have been working really hard on getting the pull shot back to the way it was before"


Ricky, you're coming off a long break. You must be looking forward to some good, challenging cricket?
We are very excited. Looking forward to the challenge in the next few days of these Test matches. It's a very challenging place for all teams to play.
It was supposed to be a seven-match one-day series and then the BCCI requested two Test matches. You play a lot of one-day cricket but Test matches are everything for any cricketer...
It's always been my favorite format of the game. We've got the Ashes series just round the corner as well, and I'd rather be playing these two Test matches and three one-dayers, rather than the one-dayers that we were supposed to playing. It is a good opportunity for us to get back to playing Test match cricket.
Two Test matches is a tricky kind of a series. If you lose the first, you are chasing to get the series level. You think this could be a tricky one?
Yeah, I guess there's a chance for everyone. We've got a really short window. We're cramming everything in at the moment and then we get back to Australia and play three one-dayers against Sri Lanka. Hopefully we're the team that can take some initiative along the series and start the Test matches really well.
Ricky Ponting

In 2001, Australia came here as No. 1 and India were trying to challenge them. If you look at the history of India-Australia cricket, Australia has been dominant and India have tried to pose a challenge. This time it's the other way round.
Well, I think we've got three very strong rivals. India is obviously one, as we have had such intense tussles in the last five years. The Ashes series against England - that has a bit of an extra edge to it. But I think some of the challenges against South Africa have been pretty tough. If you look at those three series, there is not really much to differentiate between them, but there is probably just more of an edge [in those] than in any other game.
Ricky Ponting

There have been fears that Test cricket would die, but it seems to be in the pink of health. There seem to be five teams competing at more or less the same level.
Test cricket is really strong. You need all the countries that are playing to be strong. That's why Pakistan's situation is a shame.
We never thought about our team as No. 1 team or of our team as being better than anyone else, but when Australia play, there is very good cricket. We don't play draws, we always have results. Now it is time we start lifting ourselves back to the top. The best way for us is to come back to India and perform. We look forward to the summer and Ashes series. We have got seven Test matches up until the middle of January. We'll manage to come out on top.
Ricky Ponting

How much you believe in the rankings? Do you think India is a worthy No. 1?
Yes, of course.
Does it give the players an extra incentive? This is India, No. 1, let's go out and teach them a lesson?
It is a great challenge. We are not focused or sold on rankings. We plan to give it a good shot.





"None of the other off spinners have their way around me as Harbhajan does. So I have to give it to him. He has bowled very well against me"







Ricky Ponting

Looking at the Indian side, what do you think of their team?
Their bowlers were a lot better than our bowlers last time. The spinners played really well last time, but we are very well prepared on those fronts this time.
When you look at someone like Sehwag, do you think he has been an impact player of the decade?
Indian players play their best in Test cricket. Sehwag's dangerous. Our bowlers will be bowling their fair share of short balls at him. Young bowlers like [Mitchell] Johnson are looking forward to unsettling him at the top of the order.
Sachin Tendulkar - people are falling in love with him all over again. You are about the same age. Is he an inspiration for you?
Over the last 12 months, Sachin's been playing exceptionally well. He seems to be the batsman everybody seems to be chasing. He is the key wicket - if we get him, there is a good chance to win the game.
There was a time when people used to think that Ponting would catch Sachin in terms of runs, but do you now think that he has widened that gap a bit?
He is in his 40s, I am on 39 [centuries]. I am in the best of shape. Honestly, it feels like some of my best batting is just round the corner.
I have worked really hard in the gym over the last four or five years to make sure of my fitness. One thing I have been working really hard on is to get that pull shot back on the way it was before.
Picky Ponting

Harbhajan Singh has taken your wicket a few times. Why do you think he has been able to do so often?
None of the other off spinners have their way around me as Harbhajan does. So I have to give it to him. He has bowled very well against me, and he has picked up my wickets seven times [10] in Test cricket and a couple of times [three] in one-dayers.
How much do you miss the early days of the India-Australia rivalry?
It was a great period to play and every player was a champion player. We had [Matthew] Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, Jason Gillespie, [Glenn] McGrath. Those guys built their own reputation. You can't afford to miss those players. We might not be as dominant as we were four or five years ago but we will really be looking to get some good results.
Ricky Ponting

Interview with Glenn McGrath

I will miss `my hometown` Delhi: McGrath
McGrath

Australian pacer Glenn McGrath at the bowling end in his heydays meant batsmen had hardly a chance to free their arms, be it in ODIs or in Tests. A legendary bowler, who was famous for applying brain over brawn, McGrath earned most of his international wickets through impeccable line and length, which is quintessential in T20 cricket. His strength was for all to see when he played in the inaugural edition of IPL for Delhi Daredevils, where he proved to be one of the most economical bowlers.
But his life has changed a lot since. He lost his beloved wife Jane immediately after IPL. Initially apprehensive about coming back for the tournament, McGrath finally decided to fulfill his commitments to the Delhi team.

McGrath
Will you Miss Delhi this time since you were treated here like a son of the soil last year?

Last time I really enjoyed playing in Delhi. I got a huge support from the local crowd, which was fascinating for me. In that sense I will miss Delhi.

You have retired from international cricket almost two years back. Are you fit enough to play in the second season of IPL?

It’s true that I had quit international cricket a couple of years ago. But in the last one month I have been working really hard in the gym. I am okay with my fitness now and I will have no problem in adjusting to the demands of IPL.
MaGrath

What will be the difference in South Africa?

It will be a good contest between the bat and the ball in South Africa. The wicket will be good for the pacers too.

Why did you have apprehensions in playing for IPL this time?

It was a big decision to come back here. I have had some personal problems since I lost my wife Jane. I have two little children to look after. That’s why I had initially decided not to take part in IPL this time. But then I chose to fulfill my commitment to Daredevils at least for this season. My mother is taking care of my children.
McGrath

How difficult was it to handle the death of your wife Jane, who died of cancer?

It was really tough time for me and my family. But the support I got from everybody is awesome. I was moved to find the support for Jane McGrath Foundation during the Sydney Test. I am thankful to everybody, who helped me come out of that terrible phase of my life.
MaGrath

What’s your opinion about the Delhi Daredevils team this time?

We have a balanced team this time around. The induction of David Warner will add more firepower to batting.

Will you miss your opening bowling partner of last season, Mohd Asif?

The team has enough resources to replace anybody.

How do you rate Virender Sehwag as a captain?

Sehwag has a very astute cricketing sense. I really enjoyed playing under him last season.
MaGrath

What’s your opinion about Sehwag as a batsman?

He is a terrific batsman. I enjoyed bowling against him.

What are the attributes of a good captain?

A good captain is one who uses the experience of the senior players…one who listens to everybody, even to the junior members of the team.
MaGrath

Interview with Adam Gilchrist

Interview with Adam Gilchrist
Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist is a once in a generation type of cricketer. He changed the game in so many ways, made the impossible a reality, perfected the art of wicket keepering, and became a role model to many during his twelve year international career.

But while talking to this great man you would hardly believe that he had accomplished so many great feats. I could sense that off the field he was a modest family-man. Sounds of every day life were heard, his three children playing happily in the background with the noises of everyday chores, such as cleaning the dishes and doing laundry - it was like anyone else's home.

There was not a hint of ego in his voice; he treated me - a fourteen year old
kid - with just as much respect as an actual reporter. He is genuinely a nice guy, and one heck of a cricketer.
Gilchrist

The Interview
Quote:
In one word, how would you like others to think of your career?
Entertaining. Fun. Hopefully not boring!
Quote:
What team did you fear most while playing for Australia?
I don't think I necessarily feared a team, but the pressure was always immense whenever I played India and England, mainly because of the rivalry we have against those two nations.
Quote:
Australia is going to be playing the West Indies relatively soon. How will it feel to not be with your team mates? Would you wish you were out there, standing behind the stumps?
Obviously it's going to take some getting used to. Will I wish I were there? Yeah, probably at the start. But I know that it is my time to leave international cricket for the sake of the team and letting other people have a go.
Gilchrist

Quote:
Who did you enjoy batting the most from your position behind the stumps?
A lot of batsman. Sachin Tendulkar probably comes to mind first, and if you roll the tapes back of what he did in the CB Series and the test series you'll know why. His strokes are just awesome, that late cut over the slips is probably the best of them all. It's hard not to congratulate him for a knock of a hundred or even a knock of thirty to be honest.

Other batsmen that come to mind are obviously Lara - no one has the ability to up the ante like he does. One over he'll be leaving them outside the off stump, the other he'll be slapping them over third man for four. And then there's Inzamam, he has that lazy elegance about him, and I love the way he waddles between the wickets.
Gilchrist

Quote:
How do you see the future of Australian Cricket?
It's really bright. We have an endless supply of quality batsman, lots of all rounder, and a bunch of up and coming spinners. They're all playing in a one of the toughest domestic circuits around, gaining valuable experience before even making their debut.
Quote:
How do you rate Brad Haddin?
He's a great keeper. I've seen him take some awesome catches and brilliant stumpings. His batting is fantastic as well.
Quote:
Were you a player that checked your stats after every game?
Nah, not really mate. Every now and then, after a good knock or a lean patch I would, but I just go out there and have fun.
Quote:
I know you probably get this question a lot, but what's your favorite innings? Both Tests and ODI matches?
There's absolutely nothing like hitting a century in the final of a World Cup, that too against a quality bowling attack of Sri Lanka. That's probably my favorite. The 102 off 50-odd deliveries during the ashes was probably the funniest innings I have ever had.
Gilchrist

Quote:
Is there a catch or stumping that stands out in mind?
Dismissal number 414.

Quote:
Who was the hardest bowler to keep to during your career?
Warney. He spins it an absolute mile, he's a freak of nature! It's terribly hard picking his deliveries, I feel really bad for the batsman, as even I’m clue less!
Quote:
You didn't have the greatest start to your ODI career with the bat, what do you think was your turning point?
Tugga [Steve Waugh] asking me to open the innings. He just let me play my own game, let me be aggressive, without the pressures of raising the run rate from a low one and batting with the tail. I enjoy opening in ODI cricket more then anything else.
Quote:
What do you think is your greatest achievement?
Captaining the side that won in India, dubbed the 'final frontier', was an awesome experience and an honor. Also, receiving the title of 'Best ODI Player' from your colleagues is the greatest honor one could get.
Quote:
You 'walked', or left the crease before the umpire gave you out, a lot during your career. Why did you do it?
If I know I’m out, I'll go. It's as simple as that, I can't live with myself if stayed.

Quote:
What do you think of the IPL?
It's the greatest thing to happen to cricket since the days of Packer and World Series cricket. It brings nations together, we learn about their cultures and they learn about ours while playing together. I don't know why people think it's a bad idea, as long as people aren't bunking out on national duties this should be fine. I think a set amount of time each year should be put away for the IPL.
Quote:
You've been named Vice-Captain of your side, the Deccan Chargers. How does that feel?
It's an absolute honor. There are a lot of other fantastic cricketers in the side, and I’m flattered that the owners have chosen me to be under VVS Laxman. He's got a great cricketing mind and I hope I can help him as much as I can.
Gilchrist


Quote:
The betting odds have your team as favorites. What do you think about that?
Well, put your money on us because mate, we're going to win!
Quote:
It's been great talking to you mate, I just have one last request. "Gilly Fan" AKA Sean from Western Australia says "I love you". Can we have a shout out?
I love you too, mate!
Gilchrist