Puja Pujara plays the write shot

How can one be an insider privy to moods, moments and some madness in a cricketer’s life and yet be on the sidelines in that scenario? That is if you are the wife of a cricketer. On Thursday late evening, Puja Pujara, wife of cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara, launched her book, ‘The Diary of a Cricketer’s Wife’ at a packed Lower 
Parel venue.

Anil Kumble and Rohit Sharma were guests of honour and part of a fireside chat with the Pujaras. Puja said, “Cheteshwar has a very unique story and even those not in sport can relate to some aspects of his life, one will see, when reading the book.”

Cheteshwar added, “Anilbhai has been a great part of my cricketing journey. In my toughest Test series, in 2017, he told me how to tackle Nathan Lyon.” Puja said, “I met Cheteshwar first. He said we will meet at his uncle’s place. I thought why not go to a restaurant. I met him there, he was the exact opposite of what I thought. A little reserved, but yes, it went on from there and we are going strong.” 

Cheteshwar said, “We were chatting as friends. We decided we would like to know each other much more, started talking regularly, and then realised we wanted to spend our life together.” 

Rohit was asked about his days in Mumbai and he said, “Commuting by local train gave us discipline and it was fun too.” Cheteshwar added, “As a kid, the toughest thing I experienced was travelling in a Mumbai local with a cricket kit bag.”

Certain chapters in the book were highlighted with Cheteshwar stating, “When I read about my mom, it was so emotional, I started crying. I was 17 when she passed away. I remember her telling me, ‘great cricketer yes, but you have to be a good human being first’.” 

There were reminisces from Rohit and Anil about their parents as well, sacrifices made, love and laughter in the family and how their support and guidance was like a pillar in their lives. That was a moving part of the launch, and defined the mixed innings Thursday evening was: anecdotes, advice, sharing memories and some humour — the conversation had the entire repertoire: the bouncer, the googly, the pull shot, hook and straight drive. 

All seats were taken, but this evening proved that one of the best seats may be the one in your favourite chair with Puja’s book in hand.

This article first appeared on Mid Day