Azhar’s career stopped at 99 Tests, and what followed was a complete boycott — voices were raised even when he went to the stadium to watch a match. Soon, he retired into his shell, keeping away from people, spending time in his gym, at home with wife Sangeeta. That’s where he stayed until the announcement of his comeback in the most difficult of all the public domains.

On winning the election, he reiterated his campaign slogan. “I felt I finally got to play my 100th Test,” Azhar said this week, “in a field where the grass is not always green.” After nine years of trying, life has come full circle for Mohammad Azharuddin, MP. And who would’ve thought it, he’s started with another century on debut.

kunal.pradhan@expressindia.com