New Delhi: Star Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj launched the autobiography of 1983 World Cup-winning wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani – ‘Stumped: Life Behind and
Beyond The Twenty-Two Yards in Hyderabad on Sunday. Apart from the veteran Indian player and the talented pacer, couple of former Indian players were also present at the occasion.
The book launch was graced by ex-Indian all-rounder Mohinder Amarnath, former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin, Telangana Labour Minister Vivek Venkatswamy and some other dignitaries. On the occasion, Siraj, who proved to be a hero in the India-England series, said that Kirmani has been a source of inspiration to the younger generation like him.
Siraj thanks Kirmani for his contribution towards Indian cricket
‘Sir, when you won the 1983 World Cup, we were not even born. It has been a motivating and inspiring story of yours. I have heard from many players, your reflexes behind the wickets were extraordinary. Thank you so much for everything for the Indian cricket team,’ he said.
Kirmani praised Siraj for his performances, including in the Test series against England.
‘You performed really well. My congratulations to you. You have brought glory to the country with your exuberance…that aggressiveness right from the heart it was. I wish you every success,’ Kirmani said.
Azharuddin also commented on the occasion saying that Kirmani was jovial and liked the most by his teammates. He further said that the book has already released in Bengaluru and it is important that he released it in Hyderabad also. The former India skipper said that Kirmani continues to guide many wicket-keepers and cricketers in the future.
Vivek Venkatswamy said Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is committed to promoting sports in the state. Though Reddy was supposed to launch the book, he could not attend the event due to pressing engagements.
(With PTI inputs)
