To the average cricket fan, you're still the same man they've seen on the field or on television over the years. But personally, what kind of work has gone behind the scenes to keep you going?
I don't think there is any substitute to discipline and hard work. The challenges associated with the passage of time needs to be addressed by adapting and making changes in one's personal regime as also preparation for the game. I also have been blessed with very good support staff and medical team who have ensured the longevity in the game.
Anything special planned for your 40th birthday? You've been very active socially and charitably, but your fans hardly get to know that side of yours...
I am on the road thanks to the ongoing IPL. On conclusion of the tournament, I will be focusing on a particular initiative called 'Spreading Happiness' which is my joint initiative with Schneider Electric to provide solar home lighting systems for individual households in villages across India. We hope to impact lives of over 25,000 villagers in the initial phase.
Over the years, you've opened the innings with Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Sanath Jayasuriya and now Ricky Ponting. Who have you enjoyed batting most with?
I have enjoyed batting with both Viru and Dada and have some fond memories. Thanks to the IPL, I have also had the opportunity to open with Sanath and Ricky.
After retiring from one-day internationals, how has life changed? Are you getting more time to spend with your family and friends?
I have been playing cricket since I was 13. I would like to spend time with them. I did manage to spend some time immediately after my decision (to quit ODIs). After that, it has been the same routine with the domestic circuit, the Test series and now the IPL!
Arjun Tendulkar is making news these days for playing the game. Do you watch him play? Does he also have an unorthodox grip like you?
Both Sara and Arjun are young and finding their own space and calling. Anjali and I just want them to enjoy themselves and be passionate about whatever they decide to do in the future. I hardly discuss cricket with Arjun.
At 40, what do you reckon as the highest point in your career so far?
Winning the World Cup. It was the ultimate joy.
Member of the Parliament, a senior statesman to India's Gen-Next cricketers, a man involved in many social causes, the country's biggest icon-is life more hectic now than it was in the last two decades?
Life has definitely changed with multiple responsibilities but the constant is that cricket continues to be the priority!
What is the dressing room like without the players you played most of your cricket?
You are bound to miss these players (Kumble, Dravid, Ganguly, VVS), they were all great. But the new generation has been taking over and I've interacted a lot with them too. So they're not new to me either.
What is your opinion of the current bunch of youngsters in the Indian team?
Some of the players have done very well, especially Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. They will play for India for a long time.
Do you speak with them, tell them how to go about things?
We all speak with each other at all times and that is how it should always be. I always walk up to a player if there is something I feel I can contribute to, and provide more options.
Is Test cricket losing out to shorter formats?
I don't think so. It is still the most challenging format. Anybody who loves Test cricket will always continue to play the format.
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