Eden Gardens will always hold a special place in former India skipper Mohammed Azharuddin‘s heart where he has had a few memorable performances including a debut century in 1984-85 and a match-saving one in 1993. The venue also witnessed Azharuddin lift the Hero Cup in 1993 and tri-nation series in 1994. While there are multiple theories about what prompted him to give Sachin Tendulkar the last over against South Africa, Azhar said he just wanted to be different. 

during a panel discussion, which also included West Indies great duo of Brian Lara and Carl Hooper, Azhar said, “My teammates told me to try someone different. I thought any bowler would anyway give five runs and said if this works, it’s great and if it doesn’t, I will take the brunt. I was facing it anyway.”

Walking down the memory lane, the elegant Hyderabadi batsman said, “Quite a few times Eden had saved my career. I would not be sitting here had it not for Eden. Those were days when most of the stands were concrete. Now it has chairs. The ground is always special to me.”

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Azharuddin further predicted that the Indian cricket team has it in them to beat the Australian team in Australia although they will have to push hard for every inch as it won’t be easy Down Under.

Former Indian skipper said, “India has a good chance Down Under. They are a good side and I fancy them winning there. Of course it won’t be easy. It never is in Australia. But this team can do it.”

Smith criticised the Kookaburra ball which will be used in Australia and Azharuddin said different balls are used in different countries as one can’t do much about the rules.