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V.V.S. Laxman on a comeback trail!
Well, if all those present at the Gymkhana Ground here on Tuesday morning, including HCA president Arshad Ayub, were hoping momentarily for that to happen, considering the low the Hyderabad Ranji team has hit this season, they should not be faulted given the elegant cricketer’s contribution to Indian cricket.
But that was not to be as the 40-year-old was at the venue to train ahead of the All Stars Masters Series, featuring three T20 games, in USA from November 7.
When Laxman caressed the ball with his wristy elegance, it was a trip down memory lane for all those present, including another former India player and one of Laxman’s mentors — M.V. Narasimha Rao .
“This was my first full session with the bat after December 2012 when I last played my first-class game,” remarked Laxman in a chat with The Hindu. “I wanted to get some kind of rhythm into my batting before these matches as we all want to play quality cricket and not just for fun,” he added with a big smile.
“It is a wonderful concept and a great initiative by Sachin and Warne to have these games in US as it will help popularise the sport more there. I have been amazed with the kind of interest so many have had in the past,” Laxman pointed out.
“These matches also give you an opportunity to meet some of the greats you have played with or against in the past. There is a tremendous potential for the sport with so many expats in US. I am sure it will be a great encouragement for the budding cricketers there,” added Laxman.
The All Stars matches will be played in New York (November 7), Houston (November 11) and Los Angeles (November 14).