In this episode, we chat with former India Test cricketer, columnist, author and commentator Aakash Chopra.

Aakash tells us about his initiation into the game – in the mid-1980s – and of learning the fundamentals from his legendary coach Tarak Sinha. He goes on to review his international stint and admits he hadn't fully understood his game until mid-way through his career.

Talking Points:

Memories of Sonnet Cricket Club
Thinking about the game from an early age
The pressure he was under on his Ranji Trophy debut
Cricket as a team game v cricket as an individual game
Playing for the team v playing to one's strengths
The gift (and curse) of Sachin Tendulkar
Writing his first book Beyond the Blues
The problem with being fully honest
Writing for happiness
Enjoying the game through the tough times
Finding empathy during the course of criticism
... and much more

Participants:

Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash)

Siddhartha Vaidyanathan (@sidvee)

Ashoka (@ABVan)

Books by Aakash Chopra:

Beyond the Blues: A Cricket Season Like No Other - Aakash Chopra

Out of the Blue: Rajasthan's Road to the Ranji Trophy - Aakash Chopra

The Insider - Aakash Chopra

Related:

Aakash Chopra's ESPNcricinfo columns

Tarak Sinha's 40-year labor of love - Sharda Ugra

First time I was scared... - Aakash Chopra YouTube channel

'It takes time to understand what makes you tick' - Aakash Chopra unplugged