Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden, whose connection with the City is well known, received a rapturous welcome at a city mall on Monday. He is in the City to promote the Tamil Nadu Premier League.
The Queenslander, who recalled his first visit to the City as part of spin clinic with MRF, has had many fond moments.
Hayden said “this place is very special. I was at the stadium and told my colleagues one day I would score a Test hundred but I actually managed a double ton.”
The Australian opener, who took questions from a huge gathering at the mall and signed autographs, also played for Chennai Super Kings.
Speaking about the benefit of playing in a televised league, Hayden said, “while I grew up learning the game by hearing on the radio, this product gives a stage to these cricketers to showcase their talent. During the tournament, commentators like me often go to players and give tips and these young players will hugely benefit from this.”
When asked about his mongoose bat, he said: “the mongoose was a great innovation and I want youngsters to take it up because it is waiting to be tapped.” When asked about the advent of T20 leagues affecting Test cricket, Hayden flipped the argument saying it has helped produce many good cricketers.
He also asked the fans why they are not supporting the longer format?
The session was moderated by former India spinner L. Sivaramakrishnan.
To visit Madurai Meanwhile, Hayden will visit Madurai on August 9 to promote the League. He will visit the Madurai District Cricket Association, where he will chat with players and board members.
