‘Kumble, Agassi my heroes’

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The most economical bowler in IPL history till date opened out to Deccan Chronicle that provides a ringside view of his interests off-the field.

The answers were spot on and some of them unexpected from the articulate R. Ashwin.

Earliest sporting memory: Playing tennis ball cricket at school (PSBB).

Other sports played: Table tennis, tennis and ball badminton.

Your first experience holding cricket bat? I think when I was eight. The one I owned was at nine, a birthday gift from my parents.

Most memorable sporting moment? Player of the tournament at the Champions League.

Worst sporting moment: Losing to Delhi in the Ranji Trophy
quarterfinals in 2009-10.

Sporting heroes: Andre Agassi, Anil Kumble and Saina Nehwal.

Favourite venue: Chepauk MAC Stadium.

Sporting event you would pay the most to see: Wimbledon final between Federer and Nadal.

Questions most asked by the public and the press: How do u bowl the carrom ball?

The best match you ever saw: India vs Pakistan Test match at Chennai, 1999.

Favourite holiday spot: Leh, Ladak.

How will you like to be remembered? As someone who kept punching above his weight.

Your one piece of advice to youngsters: Play cricket only if you like let no one force you to take it up as a career.

Your biggest extravaganza: All my gadgets.

What do you never leave home without? Car keys, wallet, mobile phone.

The craziest thing you have ever done: Rubbed oil all over the
blackboard when I was in class eight.

Your best trait: I am friendly.

And your worst: Sometimes, I don’t know when and where to stop talking.

What’s your worst nightmare? Falling from a mountain.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? To have done well for my
country, state and IPL team.