How did you first fall in love with cricket, and what keeps you passionate about the game?
My love for cricket began with an unforgettable moment—the iconic words, “Dhoni finishes off in style.” The 2011 World Cup final was the first time I truly followed the tournament, and from that day on, I was captivated. The raw emotion, the tears of joy, the unwavering passion, and the sheer spirit of the game—it was impossible not to fall in love with cricket.
What continues to fuel my passion are the incredible stories of perseverance and resilience. The journeys of players who have overcome immense hardships to reach the pinnacle of the sport inspire me deeply:
Yashasvi Jaiswal—once a street vendor selling gol gappas, now a rising star in Indian cricket.
Yuvraj Singh—battled cancer and made a triumphant return to the game.
Jasprit Bumrah—came from humble beginnings, unable to afford proper cricket shoes, yet became one of the world’s most feared fast bowlers.
These stories, and countless others, remind me that cricket is more than just a sport—it’s a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of dreams.
Which episode of the Cricket Library Podcast has been your favourite and why?
The episode featuring Ryan Harris is my favorite because of the incredible insights into his journey as a cricketer. His story is one of resilience and dedication, from grinding it out in domestic cricket to becoming a key player for Australia at the highest level.
I particularly enjoyed hearing about his experiences winning the Sheffield Shield and the IPL with Deccan Chargers, showcasing the different challenges he faced across formats. His breakdown of the famous delivery that dismissed Alastair Cook was a fascinating look into the mindset of an elite fast bowler.
This episode isn’t just about his achievements—it’s about the struggles, turning points, and lessons that shaped his career, making it an inspiring listen for any cricket fan.
If you could interview any cricketer (past or present), who would it be and what would you ask them?
If I ever got the chance to interview Virat Kohli, it would be a dream come true. He’s someone I’ve always admired, not just for his batting but for his mindset, passion, and leadership.
I’d ask him about how he deals with setbacks—how does he reset after a tough phase, and what keeps him going? His leadership style has always stood out, so I’d love to know how he motivated his teammates when things weren’t going their way and if there’s a decision he looks back on differently now. Another big one would be handling pressure in high-stakes games—does he have any specific routines or mental tricks to stay in control? And with cricket constantly evolving, I’d ask how he adapts his game to stay at the top across formats and what advice he’d give to young cricketers chasing their dreams.
What does cricket mean to you, and how has it influenced your life?
Cricket, to me, is more than just a sport—it’s a passion that has shaped my outlook on life. It has taught me resilience, discipline, and the ability to stay composed under pressure. Watching the game, analyzing strategies, and seeing players overcome adversity have inspired me both personally and professionally.
The sport has also strengthened my appreciation for teamwork and leadership. Whether it’s Virat Kohli’s intensity, MS Dhoni’s calmness, or the inspiring journeys of underdog players, cricket constantly reinforces the values of hard work, self-belief, and adaptability.More than just a game, cricket builds connections, sparks conversations, and creates lifelong memories. It’s not just about wins and losses—it’s about the emotions, stories, and lessons that stay with you.
Why would you recommend the Cricket Library Podcast to other cricket fans?
I’d recommend the Cricket Library Podcast to fellow cricket fans because it goes beyond the usual match analysis. It focuses on the stories behind the game—sharing the struggles, journeys, and successes of cricketers from all over. Whether it’s interviews with legends or discussions about memorable moments in cricket, the podcast offers a great blend of insight and entertainment.
What I love about it is that it’s not just about stats or scores—it’s about understanding what drives these players, how they handle pressure, and the mindset behind their success. If you’re passionate about the game, this podcast is a must-listen.
Which cricket match or moment will you never forget, and why?
Virat Kohli’s 82* against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup* is a moment I’ll never forget. The atmosphere at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was electric, and India was in a tough spot, needing 50-odd runs from the last few overs. What made this innings so special was Kohli’s composure and sheer class under pressure. Every ball he faced, especially in the final few overs, showed his ability to remain calm and calculated despite the mounting tension.
What stood out was his partnership with Hardik Pandya and how they turned the game around. But Kohli’s knock wasn’t just about hitting big sixes or fours—it was about controlling the game with intelligent placement, finding gaps, and showing that experience matters in high-pressure situations. His knock was a masterclass in chasing under pressure and reminded us why he’s one of the best in the world. The shot off Haris Rauf was a moment of pure brilliance, with Kohli effortlessly clearing the boundary at a crucial stage. Harsha Bhogle’s commentary, “Kohli goes down the ground, Kohli goes out of the ground!” perfectly captured the audacity and power of the shot, sealing a defining moment in India’s chase. It wasn’t just a win for India—it was a moment that captured Kohli’s greatness.
Which three people would you invite to your dream cricket net session and where would you host it?
For my dream cricket net session, I’d invite Virat Kohli for his relentless drive and batting technique, Shane Warne for his unparalleled spin skills and cricketing insights, and AB de Villiers for his versatility and innovative strokeplay.
I’d have the session at Lord’s Cricket Ground—the history and legacy of the place make it the perfect venue for such an experience. To share the nets with these legends at a venue so steeped in tradition would be an unforgettable way to learn and celebrate the game.
If you are passionate about your cricket and love the Cricket Library Podcast we would love to hear from you so we can feature you as our listener of the week just like we have done for Aryan. Fill in the form below to get in touch.
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