Cricket is both leisure and pleasure for Priyadarshan

Bollywood writer-director Priyadarshan Nair is an avid cricket lover. Not just that, he also played high grade tournaments in Kerala before an injury cut short his career.

The renowned film-maker, who has churned out hits such as Hera Pheri, Bhagam Bhag, Bhool Bhulaiyaa and is also known for critically acclaimed movies such as Virasat and Gardish, is always around at Kochi’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium press box during an international match.

By the way, he doesn’t go to the media centre for fun or to make his presence felt. Like any other media professional, he covers matches there for one India’s oldest regional dailies: Malayala Manorama.

“I’ve been writing on cricket for the past six years,” said Priyadarshan, who was present at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Tuesday.

“I only cover matches in Kochi. One needs time to write for a full series, which is difficult for me,” said the 55-year-old.

“Since I’ve played the game with passion,” he added, “it spurs me on. Writing on the sport is a great source of relaxation as well.”

So who is his favourite cricketer in the Indian team? “MS Dhoni,” prompt came the answer. “He leads from the front and is a team man,” he said.