Big B talks about infamous Kotla cricket ground

Big B talks about infamous Kotla cricket ground
Thursday, December 31, 2009 11:08 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Amitabh Bachchan has rekindled some old memories associated with the now infamous Ferozshah Kotla cricket ground of Delhi. The same ground, where on Sunday the game between India v/s Sri Lanka was abandoned due to unsafe playing conditions.

"Kotla - Ferozshah Kotla grounds, the cricket venue of several international adventures. Those early years in the city and the complete inability to even wander about this venue when a match was on.

The College and University days when watching a cricket match by bunking classes was a recognized pastime. The paucity of funds to buy a ticket.

The ingenious methods deployed to somehow smuggle our way into the grounds free of cost. The thrill of being inside this hallowed arena where the greats of the International world of cricket enthralled us with their skill." Big B recalls on his blog.

He adds, "On one particular occasion to witness that great West Indian team simply destroy us with their immense power and talent.

Wesley Hall, the pace bowler counting his steps to the run up and the entire stadium counting with him, and in amazement of the distance he would cover to bring in that awesome speed.Gary Sobers and Rohan Kanhai and the likes of them delighting us with their exquisite skill.

And then on one occasion during the visit of the Pakistani Team to be seated through some great string pulling, just below the dressing rooms in vantage positioning, to see that incredibly handsome Fazal Mahmood, the Captain and opening bowler of their team, lustrous hair swirling about as he ran up, his green colored eyes focussed determinedly at the batsman facing him.

Hanif Mohammad, that batting sensation and his younger brother Mushtaq starting up their international debut at the young age of 17 and 18 years.

And our own Ramakant Desai, that thin and fragile looking pace sensation whipping up speed that would never ever be associated with his size, being brought on by Polly Umrigar standing in as Captain to bowl to Hanif, knowing that he would always have a problem with him and then sure enough to see the wicket flying away as he got bowled by a beauty.

And Bapu Nadkarni who I think had the distinction of batting for the entire 5 days of a test match unbeaten. He was the ‘blocker'. The one that never hit the ball, merely kept blocking it to kill time and frustrate the opposition. Such vivid winter memories of that ground, woolies, fog and all"
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT