Former Indian pacer Praveen Kumar alleged that while senior players advised against drinking during his time in the national team, they privately acknowledged everyone drank.
Former Indian cricketer Praveen Kumar recently shed light on a disturbing aspect of his career. Hailing from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Parveen’s stint with the national team was marred by a tarnished reputation, largely stemming from allegations of off-field issues. While his cricketing journey included six Tests, 68 ODIs, and 10 T20Is, the reports surrounding Kumar’s alleged struggles with alcohol circulated, adversely affecting his image.
In a candid conversation, Praveen mentioned undisclosed senior players who, despite advising against drinking, privately acknowledged widespread alcohol consumption within the team. He lamented being singled out and associated solely with drinking, highlighting that many others indulged similarly.
“When I was in the Indian team, seniors said ‘drink nahi karna, yeh nahi karna, woh nahi karna’. Karte sab hai. Lekin wahi baat hai na ki badnaam kar dete hai ‘PK toh drink karta hai’. Sab peete hai (When I was in the Indian team, seniors said ‘Don’t drink, don’t do this, don’t do that.’ Everyone does it. But the thing is, they tarnish the reputation by saying ‘PK drinks.’ Everyone drinks),” Praveen said when speaking to The Lallantop YouTube channel.
“No. I don’t want to mention names on camera. Everyone knows who tarnished my reputation. Those who know me personally, they know How I am. A bad image of me has been created,” he added.
The former pacer also expressed disappointment for not being considered for coaching roles in IPL teams or Uttar Pradesh’s domestic team due to his perceived alcohol-related image. Despite anticipating a coaching opportunity in 2018, neither IPL franchises nor his home state’s Ranji team approached him, citing his past alcohol association.
Known for his swing bowling skills, Praveen Kumar concluded his IPL career with Gujarat Lions in 2017. Not being picked in the following auction led to his retirement in 2018. Regarded as a top swing bowler in India, he amassed 112 international wickets before retiring.
Last Updated on January 8, 2024
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