What If...

"I would have been a cricketer had I not become an actor.

I was in my cricket team and we used to play at the national level those days, even when my parents were against it. But then I do not know why I did it, but one fine day I went up to my dad and said, "Dad, I don't want to play cricket anymore." And my dad couldn't believe his ears because I was totally into it and had gone against him to play the game.

The scenario in those days was people only knew the Indian Cricket team players, no matter you play for Ranji Trophy, you are not recognized.

But today the scene is different. IPL has changed the life of cricket and players as well. It gave a big opportunity for the budding talents in India. If IPL was there those days, I would have never left the game.

But I never regret the decision of getting into acting because I came here for fame and I got it and people recognize me wherever I go and ask me for autographs. But yes, when you think about the game, I miss it and genuinely I miss playing in the IPL ground.

Virat Kohli is a good friend of mine and also Shikhar Dhawan is like my childhood buddy and we know each other since school. So once I had gone for the practice when they were playing for Mumbai Indians and I happened to meet Mr Sachin Tendulkar. I desperately wanted a picture with him and I had the chance as well. But I just could not open my mouth. I was staring at him even when he smiled at me.

That's why people keep telling me that Sachin should be my favourite player, but I know it is not him, but for me it is always Ajay Jadeja. I had been to his house and talked to him and I realized that he is such a cool guy. I remember Jadeja telling me the secret of his smile, "It is not possible to win every game we play and there are two ways for you to lose. Either you crash down or enjoy the game and lose. But people used to mistake and think that I smile because I fix the match." I felt him to be really genuine and a real sport.

I would like to say something to the youth of today. If you like something you do it. if you want to play the game, play it or if you want to leave it, leave it. But at the same time you have to realize that you cannot be an engineer and a cricket player simultaneously. Decide what you want to take as a profession. And today education is also made like that and even parents have become open. But do not leave anything in midway like I do most of the time."

Author: Saranya Valsarajan