There are few in Indian cricketing circles who understood Mohammed Azharuddin better than former India captain Ajit Wadekar.
There are few in Indian cricketing circles who understood Mohammed Azharuddin better than former India captain Ajit Wadekar.
Wadekar and Azharuddin enjoyed a successful relationship as manager and captain of the Indian cricket team in the 1990s.
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PLANNING AHEAD: Ajit Wadekar (left) with Mohammed Azharuddin in 1995.
file pic/MIDDAY archives |
Yesterday, Azharuddin announced his entry into politics by joining the Congress. "Yes, I think Azhar will be a successful politician," said Wadekar when asked whether a shy person like Azhar could successfully navigate the business of politics and politicking.
"Look, Azhar may be shy, soft-spoken and reserved but over the years he has learnt a few things. He must be confident of himself and that's why he has jumped into politics," said Wadekar.
More than cricketWadekar kicked off his managerial stint with the Indian team in 1992. Though India ended up on the losing side in his first assignment in South Africa, Azharuddin and he enjoyed an impressive home record from 1992-93 to 1995-96, a period in which India did not lose a series.
"He would want to do something for the people and they will relate to him. After all, he was a damn good player for India. As a cricketer you don't see things beyond 75 yards but when you leave the game you learn more about life."
