The Coronavirus pandemic has forced cricketers from around the world to stay at their homes as almost every country is facing a lockdown in order to stop the spread of COVID-19. In the meantime, cricketers are moving towards social media to pass the time and interact with their fans as well.
In the process, former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq took part in an Instagram live session and revealed many secrets which fans across the world were not aware of. The legendary bowler disclosed an interesting story about how one of India’s greatest spinner Anil Kumble helped him to find a good optician in England and overcome his vision problem.
The 43-year-old recalled an instance when he went to Kumble for a suggestion with respect to a good eye specialist as there were not many good opticians in Pakistan back then.
“We were in England, and I told Anil bhai that there are not many good opticians back home, so I am struggling and if he could suggest some ophthalmologists. So, he suggested that I go to Dr Bharat Rugani. Even he said that he and [Sourav] Ganguly consult him often. He gave me the [contact] number of the doctor, and I visited him in Harley Street (in London),” said Saqlain.
Saqlain said it was found that he had a cataract when the doctor checked his eyes. He further stated that he went to so many doctors in Pakistan, but none could treat it. Mushtaq went on to say thanks to Kumble as it was the Indian spin wizard that helped him during a difficult time.
“The doctor checked my eyes and gave me lenses. I had cataract, the vision power was cylindrical and also the eyes were weak. I had consulted many doctors in Pakistan and none could treat it. So, it was Anil bhai who would help me get in touch with the doctor. It was because of him that I could recover. He is a gem of a person,” added Saqlain.
Saqlain heaped praises for Kumble and went on to add that the Indian veteran is like his elder brother and he has enormous respect for him.
“Our culture has taught us to respect elders and Anil bhai is just like my elder brother. Whenever we meet, we have good chats. Even during playing days, you could walk up to him and seek suggestions in the middle of a series. He would help you with necessary tips and would never misguide it. I have a lot of respect for him,” the Lahore-born added further.
Saqlain played 49 Tests and 169 ODIs for Pakistan, in which the outstanding off-spinner took 208 and 288 wickets, respectively.
