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| Rohan Gavaskar |
Which was your first commentary stint?
It was in 2007 I think for the Challenger series (NKP Salve Challenger Trophy) and it was a learning experience. It’s always tough when you do it for the first time. Obviously, I was nervous, but it was a good learning experience. I did not make any major goof ups, but I spoke a lot less than I speak now. I just stuck to the basics. I wasn’t as descriptive as I am now. Being articulate comes with experience and you get a lot more comfortable with speaking.
What gave you the jitters?
It’s tough because you’ve got the producer and all talking in your ears at the same time. So, to articulate your thoughts and to convey that, it’s tough. It takes a little bit of getting used to and to try and find the right words to describe what you want to say is also a little nerve-wracking. They are not necessarily talking to you. They are talking to the cameramen, ‘camera 5, camera 2’… all that’s going on in your head while you are speaking as well. Quite tough.
How do you prepare before a match?
I do my homework on the playing conditions, the ground statistics, players, see what they have done, whether they are in good form or bad form. As far as language is concerned, I don’t really worry about that.
What tips did you take from your dad?
I didn’t really take any tips from him because even when it came to cricket, I wanted to do it my way, in my own style.... I am trying to create a niche for myself.
What do you think is your commentary style, compared to your dad’s?
I don’t know! (Laughs) My dad has been in this profession for a very long time and he is one of the most respected commentators. In my opinion, he is one of the best commentators. So, to compare myself to him would be ludicrous. He is hard-hitting. He says it as he sees it. He is not afraid to pull any punches and his technical know-how is second to none. He gives an exact description of what’s happening and that’s how I want to be like. I’ve got a really long way to go.
He is also very witty…
Extremely! So, he cracks a few jokes every now and then and that lightens the mood. (Laughs)
Apart from your dad, who else do you like listening to?
I like listening to Nasser Hussain and Michael Holding. I used to love listening to Richie Benaud and Bill Lawry.
Any dream co-commentator for you?
Not really. I will be more focused on doing my job. But yeah, to be able to commentate with the names I mentioned will mean that I have reached a certain level in commentary. That’s the level you aspire to be at.
What do you think it’ll be like with your dad and you in the same commentary box?
Well, it would be great. If I can commentate with him, it’ll be great. Not only for me, but the viewers also. To be able to hear a father-and-son combination, maybe different views, maybe the same views… I think it’ll be interesting.
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All-time favourite cricketer:
Sunil Gavaskar
Current favourite cricketer:
Sachin Tendulkar
Currently listening to:
House music
Last film watched:
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Favourite actress:
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
