I am very happy, I have no comeback plans: Azharuddin

HYDERABAD: Not knowing Mohammad Azharuddin’s present address in the City of Pearls was a hindrance as one yearned to meet the willow magician. The problem was solved by an dauntless autowallah who promised to take me to Azzu Bhai’s abode despite not being sure about the address.
He did keep his promise and soon, at a Jubilee Hills bungalow, I was face-to-face with the man who in full flight was the best sight in cricket.“Hi,� the oft-heard voice greeted me before asking, ‘‘Aaj Games nahi hai?� alluding to the National Games which have brought this correspondent to the city. “I’m busy with my gymnasium. It’ll be operational from today (Monday),� he informed. “I don’t have much time for the Games. In fact I couldn’t even watch them on the television. They certainly are a good platform for budding athletes.�
The willows and the scent of the sweat on the gloves are things of the past for him. But there have been times, he admitted, when he had picked up a bat to shadow-practice those wristy flicks and elegant drives. But he says: “By God’s grace, I’m happy. I have no intentions of making a comeback.�
“Lack of effort,� he described the Indian team’s performance in the first Test against New Zealand. “I watched the last day’s highlights.�
When did he last meet a colleague from the Indian team? A Brett Lee in-cutter would have been easier to work off the pads.
“Don’t remember,� the shrugging of the shoulders came into prominence. “Shane (Warne) suffered an injury yesterday. Unfortunate, but these are bound to happen. Did he fall down?� he asked.
What about Steve Waugh? “The Australian board knows better.� And what Are India’s chances in the World Cup? “Chodiye dada, hum gym leke busy hai. It’s the best gift I can give to the people of Hyderabad.�
Est, the ultra-modern gymnasium, is run by the Azhar Sangeeta Management Services. “I have plans to start it in other cities too. The response has been excellent,� Azhar says.
Some of Azhar’s best knocks came when the team faced a crisis. ‘‘Divine intervention,’’ he sat back on his chair, fiddled with his wrist-watch and uttered as his eyes sparkled. “I remember my late grandfather (Wajehuddin) every moment. He has always been with me.�
How did you feel about Wisden taking back the invite for the Cricketer of the Century show?
“Look at the Arsenal team,� he executed the famed late-cut. “Thierry Henry is a sensation. So is Dennis Bergkamp. Lakers are good in the NBA.�
The huge Sangeeta Bijlani portrait by the staircase overlooked the graceful drawing room. “My conscience is clear,� he looked me in the eyes.
“Azzu Bhai mila Saab,� Md. Sharief, my autowallah , who was waiting outside, enquired. “Kaise hai woh?� He had other queries too, and his opinion.
At the end of the return ride, I did not mind giving him a tip. He had been a great help.