Former batsman and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar has expressed satisfaction over his career. The stylish batsman who was often overshadowed by his teammates like the great Sunil Gavaskar and Gundappa Viswanath said he had an extremely fulfilling career.
Vengsarkar who turned 64 on Monday was a prominent inclusion in the Indian team in the 1980’s who is famous for playing both the spin and swing bowling with great confidence.
On this occasion, he recounted his illustrious career where he played for India for 16 years between 1976 and 1992.
“My Journey Has Been Fulfilling”
He said that his journey as a cricketer was fulfilling and happy as he feels that playing 116 Tests for India was his biggest satisfaction besides being part of the 1983 world cup and 1985 world championships.
Vengsarkar who is also known as Colonel said,” When I look back, it’s been a very happy and fulfilling journey. Playing 116 Tests for India is the biggest satisfaction. Add to it, the 129 ODIs, winning World Cup (1983) and World Championship of Cricket (1985). And to top it all, being an India captain. It was a great journey.”
Vengsarkar whose career is marked by some big milestones such as only the player other than English players to make three centuries at Lords and scoring 6 centuries at home against the fearsome West Indies pace attack which includes Malcolm Marshall, Andy Roberts, and Michael Holding.
“Getting Recognition Is Purely Destiny”
When asked if he had got enough recognition for all the achievements he replied in a pragmatic tone, “That’s basically destiny. You had to work hard, play honestly and win matches for your team. That should be the goal for every cricketer. Whatever accomplishments that come along the way and whatever recognition you get, whether you got your due or not, it is pure destiny.”
About scoring runs for the present generation the former Indian captain says, “Read the wicket, see the situation, adapt to the wicket is what matters. Those things you learn as you play more.”
