Time spent on wheelchair was life's darkest phase: S Sreesanth

Back from two career-threatening injuries, pacer S Sreesanth says that months spent on wheelchair prior to his comeback to first-class cricket were the "darkest" of his life.

When Sreesanth led the Kerala attack in the Ranji Trophy recently, he was doing so after a gap of 14 months.

"Who says men don't cry? I used to sob like a baby as I was forced to move around in a wheelchair for two months after twin surgeries on my toes," an emotional Sreesanth said during an interview from his hometown Kochi today.

"To be honest, I started thinking that probably, I won't be able to play cricket again. It was such a scary thought. Those 14 months were the darkest phase of my life," he added.

Sreesanth was indebted to the support he received from various quarters.

"After two months on wheelchair, I had to walk around in crutches for another three months. Thanks to BCCI, Kerala Cricket Association and NCA for standing by me in crisis

period. The moment, I announced that I am fully fit, Kerala CA

didn't think twice before selecting me," he said.

The maverick pacer will be playing for India 'A' against England at the Palam ground here on Sunday.

"This is a fresh start for me. I want to extract every ounce of enjoyment possible from the matches that I would play from now on. Be it for Kerala, India A or India, I don't want to relax one bit. I have two platinum nails inserted in my big toes but I have a lot of fire in my belly," he added.

"Earlier, I used to think that there are days where I can relax. But now I know that life is fickle. You have to give your hundred per cent as long as it lasts."

... contd.

ALSO READ

IPL 2013: It's going to be tough game against Punjab, says Daniel Vettori

IPL 2013: Pune warriors opt to bat against Rajasthan Royals

IPL 2013: A forgettable 'hat-trick' for Kieron Pollard

Conditions in England will assist my style of bowling, says Bhuvneshwar Kumar