Former England spinner Monty Panesar, who last played a Test in 2013 and an ODI in 2007, has experienced the highs and lows of both form and fitness.
Having been in and out of the team many a time, the 37-year-old is still hungry to play at the international level. In the past few years, he suffered bouts of depression and alcoholism, was let go by his county team (Sussex) and was diagnosed with paranoia and schizophrenia. To get his life back on track, he consulted former England captain and psychologist Mike Brearley, and recently came out with a book, The Full Monty, which describes his journey. In an exclusive chat with THE WEEK, he spoke about how he dealt with mental health issues and what he thinks of the ongoing World Cup. Excerpts:
Q/The character and approach of the England team has changed so much. Would you be able to fit in if you got the opportunity?
A/Yes, the pace has gotten quicker and they are playing attacking cricket [with] the white ball. They realised they have to play more fearless cricket. As they say, fortune favours the brave. And they bat deep. And that is working in England’s favour. It has got a lot to do with the Indian Premier League—you go there, smack the ball, [and] as a bowler, [you] got to be smart. IPL has played a huge role in terms of acceleration of the game globally. Everyone is trying to play quicker. I am aware of that and have been trying to be up there with my fitness.
Q/Leg spinners are now calling the shots in white-ball cricket.
A/Wrist spin has definitely evolved a lot more and captains are understanding how to use leg spin a lot better. Earlier, India and Pakistan used to do that. Spinners have always played a huge role. When you take pace off the ball, the batsmen have to do the work, they have to put pace on it. And that is a risk in itself. If they get it right, they hit it out of the ground. If they get it wrong, then it is a problem.
Q/How is this World Cup shaping up for the teams?
Bu hikaye THE WEEK dergisinin June 23, 2019 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye THE WEEK dergisinin June 23, 2019 sayısından alınmıştır.
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