Of bald pates and underarm throws

But this series has been quite interesting. In the process, we have learnt several things about each other. Some of them where very interesting bits of information. Syed Kirmani tells me his bald pate took shape more as an experiment than anything else. Soon, he says, it became a fashion statement. More and more people came up to him and toldhow much it suited him. So he decided it was there to stay! And years later, it is still in place.

Some cricketers have also spoken of the resentment they felt when their respective boards dropped them. They say neither their fitness nor their performance could be faulted. The only thing going against them was their age. They have questioned the decision to forcibly retire then, despite the fact that they still had some years of good cricket in them.

Some of us are involved in some way with the national teams, while others have been involved in the recent past. I, for instance, have a lot to do with the present Sri Lankan team, being their cricket manager. We have put together our insights. An oft asked question is how Sanath Jayasuriya manages to go on the way he does. To that I simply say that the man is one of God’s miracles.

While Krishnamachari Srikkanth still guides India’s second team, Madan Lal and Sandip Patil have only been coaches of the national team. Both have several interesting things tosay. They are grateful for the experience and feel it was a chance to give something back to the game they love.