An afternoon tryst with Azhar made one relive his mastery over the game

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Mohammad Azharuddin, known for his elegant stroke play and impeccable wrist work, was indeed a rare artist with the bat. His batting style evoked a sense of artistry that captivated fans, much like a painter’s brush on canvas. His ability to effortlessly steal singles and drive the ball with precision, against swing and spin alike, set him apart from many contemporaries. Azhar’s grace at the crease, coupled with his ability to time the ball perfectly, made watching him an aesthetic experience.

The nostalgic charm of witnessing Azharuddin at SG’s headquarters in Meerut would have reminded fans of an era when cricket was played with finesse and artistry. His presence likely stirred memories of his effortless batting, with each stroke exuding clarity and control, qualities that made him a fan favourite. His legacy, defined by poise and elegance, continues to inspire, and for those fortunate enough to see him in person, it was a reminder of the beauty that once graced the cricket field.

Azharuddin’s contributions to Indian cricket are etched in history, not just for his batting artistry but for his behind-the-scenes innovations as well. From making strategic alterations to his bat—such as drilling holes to reduce its weight and improve handling swing and spin—to being instrumental in the adoption of SG Test red balls in Indian cricket alongside Kapil Dev and Kiran More during his captaincy, Azharuddin’s involvement went beyond just playing the game. Friday’s afternoon meeting with SG owners Kailash Anand, Trilok Anand, and Paras Anand felt like a return to a familiar place, a space filled with shared memories of the good old days.

As he entered the boardroom, his unmistakable elegance was still intact—he walked in with the same grace he displayed during his playing days, whether it was for the toss or walking to the crease. That signature stride, bent elbow, pulled up collar and slouched posture, which once mesmerized fans around the world, remains unchanged, embodying the timeless class that defined Azharuddin both on and off the field. For everyone present, it was as if time had stood still, and they were once again in the presence of a cricketing legend whose charm endures.

Azharuddin has always been known for his immense skill on the field, but his generosity and willingness to help others have become equally defining traits in recent years. As Paras Anand aptly put it, “The day you start living for others, you will know you have arrived.” This sentiment was wholeheartedly endorsed by Azharuddin, whose philanthropic efforts have quietly made a significant impact on many lives.

Azharuddin’s compassion, combined with his stature as a cricketing legend, has seen him increasingly turn his attention to charitable causes, demonstrating that his influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. His humility and readiness to support those in need reflect a life lived in service to others, manifests his belief in the importance of giving back to the community.

The afternoon spent with Azharuddin was not just a casual gathering, but a journey into the hidden layers of cricket history. As he shared stories and anecdotes, it became clear that there are countless untold tales from his playing days that the public has never heard. One such revelation was about Kapil Dev, who, despite his legendary status, had a clear preference for bowling over the wicket to both right and left-handers, rarely opting for round the wicket.

These small details, often left out of the public discourse, offered a unique glimpse into the intricate dynamics of the game. Listening to Azharuddin recount these moments felt like being under a spell, with each story shedding light on the inner workings of cricket during its golden era. His deep understanding of the sport and his time as a captain gave him a treasure trove of experiences, and to hear them firsthand was both enlightening and nostalgic.

Even the way Azharuddin spoke about caring for his SG bats reflected his meticulous approach to the game. The bats, which held a special place for him—gifts given with care—were looked after with the same level of attention and respect that he showed toward his craft. Azharuddin understood that each bat was more than just a piece of wood, it was an extension of his skill, and he treated them accordingly. Even today the approach is just the same.

Such stories not only showcased his mastery on the field but also his deep reverence for every element of the sport, down to the smallest details. It was an afternoon where cricket, as a sport and an art, came alive through the eyes of a true legend, enriching the listeners with memories that will likely remain with them for a long time.