“Hark work and respect for the game” keys to Imran Tahir’s success

He may be 43 years old, but when it comes to on-ground energy, Imran Tahir could leave a teenager behind. One of the many architects of our win over the Sharjah Warriors on Saturday (January 14), here are the excerpts of his post-match press conference. 

Secret to his fitness at this age

I work hard behind the scenes which people don’t see. At my age it’s not easy. But I believe in my talent and my hardwork. I feel if I’ve done my homework, I don’t have to be afraid of anything on the ground. I want to be honest with the game, respect the game and respect my teammates. Especially while representing a brand like MI, such a big brand, I’ll give everything I have in me. Hard work is the key. 

On what his motivation is

My motivation comes from the fact that this game has given me a lot. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a player who could show the world the talent he has. And when I got all this, I didn’t want to relax because I got to start playing in international cricket and in the leagues after the age of 33. I know it’s late, and that’s why I don’t want to let go of it. 

On his hunger to do well

If I didn’t have the hunger, I wouldn’t play cricket. Self respect is a huge thing for me. So whenever I play, I will play like this, or I won’t play at all. 

On why MI is the most successful franchise in cricket

The coaching staff is very professional. Everything is very professional. The players are looked after very well. So when the players are confortable, they give everything to that team. We had a very good camp. We were the first team to arrive as well. It is a huge honour for me to represent a team like this. I would want to give MI everything I have. 

On his new CR7 celebration 

My son is a huge fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. He told me, ‘Daddy, you have to do it’. I did it for my son. 

Hopes of having a Champions League in world cricket

It would be a huge thing for the world if one champion team from one country plays another champion team from another country. I think we should have this in the future and I am in favour of it. 

Why he picked playing in the ILT20

People always question my age. People don’t spend money on me. Whenever I go onto the ground, I have to show people my worth. I am not playing for money, I am playing for my self-respect. I have never been on any big contract all through my T20 leagues career. But if I put in performances, I can beat all million dollar players. I am happy for the players who are getting this amount because it wasn’t the case earlier. The reason I chose this league was because I hadn’t played cricket for over two months. I was working really hard and was looking forward to this league. I had the chance to play in South Africa as well, but I have now moved to Dubai and my family is here. That’s the reason I chose this league. Choosing MI Emirates gives me a family feeling as well. I can go and see my son over the weekend and that’s the main reason I chose this. I think I made the right choice. I am very happy. It is an honour representing Mumbai Indians, the best team in the world.