Sehwag, Zaheer should now give back to the game: Vengsarkar

Called Colonel in the cricket fraternity for his organised and near-military bearing, former Indian Test captain Dilip Vengsarkar still exudes the same aura of a disciplined leader. We caught up with the former BCCI chief selector during a recent visit to Nagpur and he spoke to us about his romance with Nagpur, his suggestions to the recently retired cricketers and more.
Excerpts:
We recently saw some great Indian cricketers like Virender Sehwag and Zaheer Khan hang up their boots. You were the selector when these two peaked in their careers. Do you have any special memories associated with these two World Cup winners?
As a selector, I was adamant that we give Zaheer another chance in the Indian team after his terrific performances during his county stint with Worcestershire. It was his second coming and the world saw what he did, thereafter. Viru was another player who I had complete faith in despite him experiencing a lean patch.
I clearly remember that once during a team selection for a tour to Australia, I had stressed that we pick him because he can play really well square of the wicket on bouncy tracks down under. He also flourished. So after all these years of success and tonnes of experience, they should give something back to Indian cricket. Their service can be utilised at the national cricket academy and to inspire young cricketers, just like what happened with players from our generation.
Talking about your playing days, one of your first hundreds that also brought you to the fore in Indian cricket came at Nagpur in the Irani Trophy in 1975. How special is this city for you?
It's always nice to come here. I've also got some really good friends from Nagpur who have played cricket in Mumbai. They pull me to the city every now and then. The cricket fans here are also very knowledgeable. They lend tremendous support to the cricketers and the backing has only gone up in all these years since my first visit. Plus, the new stadium in Jamtha is one of the most spectator-friendly facilities in the country.
Which aspect of Nagpur's culture fascinates you?
The winters are beautiful here. In fact, a few years ago, we celebrated my wife’s 50th birthday in the jungles of Pench, in the outskirts of the city. Despite being unable to spot a tiger, we had a gala time in the wilds. I’m also a fan of the Saoji food. I always have the Saoji mutton whenever I'm in Nagpur.
How enthusiastic are you about your food?
I'm a big foodie. I was recently in Kolkata for a Durga Puja event and I absolutely love the festive food and atmosphere of that city during this time of the year. In Maharashtra, we celebrate the Ganeshotsav very elaborately but not the Navratri. So I enjoyed my time there to the fullest including the food. The mustard sauce fish is one of my favourites, along with the kosha mangsho and luchi.
How is life like after retirement? Any words of advice for the recently retired cricketers?
After retirement, I have travelled a lot. Very recently, I was in America to address a cricket-related seminar along with some other legends of my era. Plus, I have also set up a few cricket academies for young cricketers. So, these guys should also utilise the opportunity to see the world and guide the future talent of Indian cricket.