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Fans' support inspired me: Azhar

Former India skipper Mohammad Azharuddin says that at no point of time did he think of quitting after being dropped from the Indian cricket team.

"I kept myself fit playing regularly without a break. I played in all the Ranji Trophy matches and got some runs too. The fans' support really inspired me to do well," he told Gulf News.

Azhar, who is accompanied by his wife Sangeeta for the Sharjah tournament, recalled the standing ovation he got in Kerala during a Ranji Trophy match immediately after he was dropped from the Indian team. In that match, spectators shouted slogans demanding the recall of the Hyderabadi star and police had to intervene to pacify them. After his brilliant knock, he was even mobbed by the crowd.

Azharuddin said the pressures of cricket did not affect him any more. In fact, his comeback century was scored at the Chinnaswamy stadium in Bangalore, which, he says, is his least favourite ground because he has never scored heavily there.

"Sharjah has always been dear to me. I have enjoyed playing here. The people have always been supportive and that has brought the best out of me," he said.

He said there's no secret behind his ability to fight back.

"I have always felt it an honour to play for the country and I have always tried to give my best. It is always a nice feeling to get runs and not disappoint the people who have come to watch the match."

UNI