Extra Innings seemed to be the turning point of your life.
Yes. Sony Entertainment Television wanted to make the wrap around programming very interesting, watchable and vibrant. In 2002, the Champions Trophy took place in Sri Lanka. People saw me there and asked me what I was doing there. I said I had come to watch cricket. And they said, `With your own money?' I said yes.
I think from that point, they had me at the back of their mind as someone who is passionate about cricket. During the World Cup, they were looking for a host, and called me. They asked me 20 questions on cricket; I passed the test.
Initially, I got a lot of flak for the show but I just stuck in there. I said I want to enjoy and I want acceptance. I still say I'm not an expert on cricket. I have a passion for the game; I represent the cricket fan. I'm not a commentator or an analyst. Whatever I know about the game would be what any other cricket fan knows except that I'm sitting on the panel. I lend certain energy to the show. That's what my job is.
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