The Hindu : Sport / Cricket : Waqar's tips helped Balaji

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Apr 14, 2004

Sport

Sport - Cricket

Waqar's tips helped Balaji

ISLAMABAD, APRIL 13. At the farewell dinner of fast bowler Waqar Younis here, there was one cricketer who hardly had time to eat, drink and be merry.

Even as the party was in full swing, Indian seamer Laxmipathy Balaji was spotted in a corner, engaged in an animated conversation with Waqar who announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday.

The duo cared little about the din of clattering glasses and plates at the dinner hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board in honour of Waqar.

Balaji, it was reported in the media on Tuesday, spoke to Waqar about his run-up as well as the right line and length.

Waqar did not disappoint the up-and-coming bowler, giving some valuable tips to the affable seamer who is already popular in this country for his lusty blows and cool approach to the game.

One of the pioneers of reverse swing, Waqar suggested him ways to improve his run-up, swing and variations while bowling yorkers. It is learnt that the `toe-crusher' also told Balaji about the diet.

The current series between the archrivals has generated bonhomie not only among the fans across the border but also between the cricketers who are often spotted mingling freely and discussing the finer points of the game with each another. — PTI

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