Although travelling is the most hectic part of being on the circuit, it has also taken me to some of the most interesting places across the country. It’s been about 14 years since I made my first-class debut and sometimes it is really difficult to travel between two venues at two different ends; like from Kerala to Delhi, or from Bangalore to Indore.
In the initial days it was only about cricket all the time, but during the course of my journeys, I developed a taste for food and music. Nowadays, I also keep an iPod with me and listen to music during long journeys. During our away games, I look forward to eating local food, visiting different restaurants and trying out different cuisines.
Having traveled so much, we now exactly know what to expect. We know that we will be served sweet food when we are in Gujarat or will get paneer in North India. In Mumbai we are always treated to some good Western food and particularly kadhi-chawal. I can’t tell you how good the food is in Lahli. It is always amazing and I love it.
When I go to Chandigarh I like to eat at Sector 17. I enjoy the dhaba food there. I will be going to Gwalior for our next match. There is a small restaurant called ‘Quality’ that serves amazing chole. In Mumbai, I like to go ‘Olives’ and ‘Just Around the Corner.’
Earlier, I used to ask the local people about interesting places, but now I know my way around and I visit those places. I ask the younger players if they are interested in trying out something new and take them along.
However, it is important to maintain a balance and eat right as we are actively playing on the circuit. I usually give instructions along with what I order. I tell them to make it less spicy or less oily and tell them to not apply ghee or butter on the chappatis.
We cannot visit all the places since we usually practice the next day, but we do take some time out to experience the local culture and flavour.
