By Devendra Khurana
Bhopal: Former cricketer and Member of Parliament Kirti Azad came to Bhopal in 1993 to play in the Ranji Trophy match between Madhya Pradesh and Delhi. I came to know that Kirti Azad was in Bhopal. I rang up Mr. Kirti Azad and asked him for an interview. Kirti Azad asked me to come to the BHEL cricket ground which was the venue of the Ranji Trophy match. I consider myself fortunate that I was with Kirti Azad for a conversation on cricket During the course of the interview, Kirti Azad came across as a pleasant, articulate and forthright person Here are some extracts from my interview with Kirti Azad.
Devendra Khurana : How has the game changed over the years?
Kirti Azad: I think, the game is almost the same except that the attitude has changed. The game has become more professional, performance oriented and competitive.
Devendra Khurana: How do you see this cricket ground (BHEL cricket ground, sports complex)?
Kirti Azad : I think it is very nice. It is beautiful. It’s open. It is lovely and green.It is something like,when we play cricket in the English league.
Devendra Khurana : What are your thoughts on Maninder Singh ?
Kirti Azad: Maninder Singh is one of the hardest working cricketers that I have got to know in my span of 18 years.I can say that Maninder Singh is one of the best in the country.
Devendra: How do you think we can attract crowds for domestic cricket?
Kirti Azad: I think, there is no way we can because several cricketers are not able to take field in domestic cricket because of their involvement in international cricket. Crowds in India would love to see the ones doing so well in international cricket to come and have a look at the state of domestic cricket.
