He was known as The Finisher. When the Australian cricket team was in trouble, all they had to do was summon Michael Bevan. The burly batsman would turn around things and show the opposition what he was best at — finishing things.
That was familiar ground for the Aussie. But, at Neelankarai’s ID restaurant yesterday, he was treading new ground — he had to finish making a dosa. For someone not used to cooking, Bevan rose to the challenge, beating the batter in a manner only a cricketer would. He trashed it and turned it upside down… in an attempt to create a good finish.
Everyone at the restaurant applauded. The Madurai Super Giants team, of which Bevan is coach, broke into big smiles.Bevan, however, wasn’t particularly pleased. “I don’t think that was a great finish… you definitely can’t call me one in the world of cooking,” he laughs, in a quick chat constantly interrupted by the sound of crockery, “You probably couldn’t even call me a starter. That was a bit of a challenge, I must admit.”
It’s been a decade since Bevan stepped away from active cricket, but he’s kept his link with the sport intact. As coach of Madurai Super Giants for the ongoing season of the TNPL, he imparts some of his cricketing knowledge to a young crop of players. “Coaching isn’t the same as playing,” says the southpaw, “As coach, you’re identifying problems and working out solutions. Though former players know a lot about the game, you particularly need to know about the cricketers you’re mentoring and what their dreams are.”
Fans in India have long loathed the cricketer for snatching away games from the men in blue; Bevan has some impressive innings against India. The experience, he feels, has been more than just about the sport. “I’ve been fortunate to visit many countries while representing my country… and India is unique. In many ways, I think it’s nearly the polar opposite of Australian culture,” he recalls.
“It comes with both challenges and new experiences. There are times that are enjoyable, and others frustrating, particularly from a coaching perspective. But, I guess that’s what makes it so enjoyable.”
