13 March,2009 08:02 AM IST | | James Keith
We have heard of the hunted turning a hunter. But we certainly haven't come across a guest invited for a felicitation, felicitating the person who had sought to honour him.
VVS Laxman did just that yesterday to the utter bewilderment of former Hyderabad coach V Manohar.
Yesterday, the Auckland Eastern Districts Cricket Association organised a felicitation function in recognition of the 34-year-old having played in over 100 Tests. The brainchild behind the show was one of Laxman's earliest coaches, V Manohar, a former opener, selector and coach from Hyderabad.
"I went to the St John's Cricket Academy in Hyderabad as a ten-year-old and Manohar Sir was my coach there.
He has played a very influential role in my career. My academy felicitated me on playing 100 Tests. In turn, I expressed my gratitude by presenting each of my coaches a memento.
"Only Manohar Sir wasn't there. I find it a little strange that I am meeting him here in Auckland," Laxman said, handing over a token of appreciation to the man he revers. Manohar, who moved to Auckland from Hyderabad seven years ago, is employed with The National Bank and has an academy.u00a0 Addressing the young lads from Auckland and from home state Andhra Pradesh, he said: "This is a great opportunity for both sets of players to understand how different teams play their cricket. Everyone of you must aspire to play for your country."
