What was your initial reaction when you realised that you will have to judge the show?
I was a bit on the defensive when I was told that I have to judge the show. But after seeing the girls’ performances, I got really involved. I became a judge for the show because I played for the Knight Riders and this is a completely new experience for me.
What are you looking for in a cheerleader?
We at Knight Riders are looking for energy, style, chutzpah, poise, personality, attitude, grace and rhythm. Only the six best girls will make it to the team finally.
Do you think it is important for the cheerleaders to know the basics about the game?
You can’t really expect the cheerleaders to know everything about the game. T20 cricket is about sport and entertainment as well. We are there to play and the cheerleaders are there to entertain.
There was a controversy the last time about cheerleaders distracting the players. What is your take on that?
Firstly, when you are playing for your team nothing in the world can distract you! Secondly, you have to look at the cheerleaders in the right angle. Cheerleading is not just about dancing; it’s about fitness and energy levels. It’s just a matter of how you look at it.
How difficult was it judging the girls?
I don’t know if it was difficult, but it was different. As a captain I am used to selecting and rejecting cricketers. Judging young girls of 15 and 16 perform in front of you is a completely different ball-game. I felt bad when I had to pick and choose the girls to be eliminated but that must not deter them. They should have the spirit to bounce back, just like we, while playing cricket.
What do you enjoy more, playing or judging?
Of course playing! I have been playing for so many years now. Judging is comparatively new for me.
Your wife Dona is a professional dancer. Did she share some tips with you?
You won’t believe it, but I haven’t even told her that I am going to be judging a reality show. Hopefully she will see me on TV and get to know about it!
Will we see you dancing like your other teammates?
Now you guys want me to dance as well? (Laughing) Dancing is only for Harbhajan, Sreesanth and Dinesh Kartik. Not for Sourav Ganguly.
Don’t you think all this will be perceived as more of entertainment and less of cricket?
You have to understand that T20 is about sport and entertainment. If the right balance is maintained, there is no problem.
Will Ponting’s absence make a difference to the team?
Yes, but we are a good team. Things were a little haywire last time because most of the players didn’t have dates. This time we made sure that we only take in players who had the required dates.
Reportedly you are joining politics.
No, there is absolutely no truth in that. And yes, to set the record straight, I haven’t even received any offers!
