I’m a God fearing man — Azhar

“Every time it’s my name that is being dragged. Even when Ashraf Patel, the diamond dealer, was murdered, the media said `Azhar Quizzed’, when no such thing happened it is so unfair. Why did the press keep quiet when 16 bookies attended a cricketer’s wedding and gifted his wife an expensive diamond necklace?”

When asked did he feel he should step down till his name was cleared, Azhar said, “Why should I? Cricket is my livelihood, my passion, my love. One mere allegation. Why should I resign? Even when they dropped me from New Zealand home series and Australian tour, though I was physically fit, I took it in my stride and continued playing Ranji Trophy for my home team.”

“I could have played selfishly accumulating runs and improve my own records. I never did that," he said. "Even when Navjot Sidhu came back from the team in England in a huff and said I did not allow him to bat even though he was ready, all padded up, it was a big lie. I always helped players, never ran them down, gave them an opportunity to bat longer. That’s what a team is all about and cricket is a team game."

“Bishen Singh Bedi, Gavaskar and others find it very easy to sit outside and comment, but they forget they too made several mistakes. Why was Manoj Prabhakar dropped after the Kanpur ODI though he scored 100 runs? Because, he played for himself and more over every one knows what sort of a person he is.

When asked about the wealth — four flats, the latest Mercedes, a palatial house in the posh Banjara Hills, Azhar said,"This house is rented. My flat in Mumbai is very ordinary. All my accounts are clear. There is nothing to hide. People talk about my clothes, Armani suits, designer clothes. Nowadays even children want only Polo, Versace, Reebok shoes. They do not like Bata.”

“I am very bitter, but will not say anything because I am a God fearing man and believe in patience — it kills enemies. I have never been controversial. Ups and downs are part of life and I accept this ugly episodeas destiny. All these ugly allegations are uncalled for and the BCCI must take action against players who stoop to any level for deriving cheap publicity. My grandfather always said if you do not give respect no body will respect you.”

When asked what was his strength during this raging match-fixing episode, Azhar said, “My strength comes from Allah and from the support of my family and friends who have stood by me.”

When asked what he had to say about the match-fixing issue, he said, "An enquiry is going on. Let’s wait for their conclusion. As far I know there is no such thing as match fixing.