If I wasn’t a cricketer, I’d be: Doing something related to biology. Though there are many engineers in my family, I wouldn’t have gone into that.

I never leave home without: My cellphone.

I can cook: I am a pretty good cook and can make biryani and other south Indian dishes.

My ideal woman is: I’m very reserved, so I would like someone with a contrasting personality.

My best day on the cricket field: When I made my comeback in IPL 2008 against Delhi after surgery had kept me out of cricket for two years.

The spell I would love to have bowled: The 10 wickets taken by Anil bhai (Anil Kumble). That is a bowler’s dream.

My favourite stress-buster: I watch movies, surf the Net. I’m an Internet buff… it relaxes me.

My autobiography would be called: Die Another Day, because I live each day for the day, especially after my comeback from surgery.

My favourite film: Dil Chahta Hai, because it’s all about friendship, family, love and happiness.

The cartoon character I most identify with: Simba from The Lion King.

For me, Calcutta means: One of the oldest cities… I see a lot of tradition here. My mom used to tell me about Calcutta, about how passionate, friendly, helpful and patriotic the people are.

For me, KKR means: A great team. I am fortunate to be a part of it. It’s a dream come true. We are trying hard to make a change and giving our heart and soul to that.

My pets: I don’t have any now, but I used to have a German Shepherd called Caesar. As I travel a lot, I wasn’t able to take care of Caesar. So he’s with my cousin now.

My favourite travel destinations: Any island or jungle. And beaches too. I like travelling to the West Indies and Africa.

My kind of movies: I’m quite a movie buff and like watching action and adventure films.

My kind of music: I listen to Tamil and Hindi music… some of the new Bollywood stuff too. I like a bit of hip-hop and listen to Akon.

A gadget I can’t live without: My laptop, because I need the Internet!

My fitness regimen: I do a lot of running — on beaches and in parks — for about 45 minutes to an hour. I also do cardio, strength and power exercises. One has to be extremely fit, especially for Test cricket.

My diet tips: I try and avoid eating anything which has visible oil and fats — so no fried or junk food for me. I have a lot of protein and carbs but I balance them. And a lot of liquids. Thankfully, I am not a big sweet-lover.

If I could trade places with any person for a week, it’d be: Anil Kumble. I grew up watching him. He is one of my favourite cricketers. He’s my mentor and I’ve always wanted to be like him. Also, Rajinikanth! I’m a big fan!