Salim Durrani Interview about Ravindra Jadeja Jamnagar News Gujarat India

In his playing days, Salim Durrani was often called poor man’s Gary Sobers. Left-handed Durrani could turn the match on its head with his batting or spin bowling.

Of late, Durrani has bemoaned the lack of all-rounders in India, but fellow Jamnagarite Ravindra Jadeja has raised his hopes. In this interview, Durrani talks about what makes Jadeja such an exciting prospect.

Do you think the current Indian team is the best ever?
It is a debatable topic. The team is playing superb cricket and full credit to Mahendra Singh Dhoni for leading the side the way he does. But I am really impressed with Sachin Tendulkar.

He has been playing for more than two decades but still bats like an 18-year-old. The team’s success is largely due to Sachin Tendulkar form and presence.

Fielding has been a big concern...
If we hope to win the World Cup, fielding has to improve. Look at Australia and South Africa. Luckily, we have some good fielders in Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja.

Just like you, Jadeja is a left-hander and bowls spin. Does he remind you of you?

Ravindra has put Jamnagar back on cricket map. Jamnagar used to be the Mecca of Indian cricket and now with Ravindra’s arrival, the spirit is back. He has a bright future and will be a great asset for the team.

What’s your advice to him?

Ravindra the batsman needs to be patient. He needs a really big innings at the highest level under his belt. As a bowler, he should bring more variation in pace.

Do you regret not getting an opportunity to play Twenty20?

Not at all. I was an attacking batsman and always played cricket in T20 fashion. No regrets.

A word on Delhi’s pitch fiasco?

It is not only unfortunate for cricket but for spectators as well. The cricket board should come up with a new pitches committee that should include only curator and former cricketers who have played at the highest level.