The launch of cricketer V V S Laxman’s memoir ‘281 and Beyond’ penned by journalist R Kaushik was a trip down memory lane as the gathering at Taj Krishna listened in rapt attention anecdotes recalled by those who influenced the Hyderabadi stylist during his formative years in cricket.
With commentator Harsha Bhogle as the moderator, Laxman recalled the ups and downs of his career. When asked what were the three toughest decisions he had to make in his career, the wristy willow wizard pointed out that it was when he decided not to open for India. “I was branded a non-regular opener. I was dropped from the team but I decided to come back as a middle order batsman.”
Laxman further revealed that at one stage of his career, he thought would be playing only first class cricket and win the Ranji Trophy for Hyderabad. He acknowledged the contribution of Hyderabad players particularly late M L Jaisimha, who simply asked him to enjoy his batting. “I thank Jai sir for reviving my love for batting. I got my rhythm back and got runs In 1998.”
On the knocks of 167 (at Sydney) and 281 (Kolkata), Laxman said. “The 167 gave me belief that I could play at the highest level and removed all my apprehensions.”
Laxman said the 281 did not come as a surprise. “My approach to the game changed while playing for Hyderabad and when I scored 300 against Karnataka. I never felt tired.”
Laxman’s parents Dr Shantaram and Dr Satyabhama, uncle Baba Krishna Mohan and wife Shailaja said it was god’s decision that made Laxman a cricketer. Krishna Mohan, who identified the talent in Laxman, said: “I knew he had the ability to play for the country.”
Former Test cricketer Arshad Ayub said Laxman always had the approach to play big games. Former Test spinner S L Venkatapathy Raju, who also saw Laxman blossom as a cricketer, said Laxman always had that extra time to play his shots especially the classy cover drives.
On the Fabulous Five of Indian cricket — Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and himself, Laxman said it was privilege and honour to play alongside these cricketers.
