Hinting at probable retirement from politics, Union agriculture minister Sharad Pawar looked in a sabbatical mood on Thursday as he preferred to talk everything but politics. The Maratha strongman said he wants to spend time reading, travelling across the world and take more interest in world cricket.
Pawar was in a rare relax mood on Thursday when he went on to reveal his future plans. "I am not going to contest any elections henceforth. So it really doesn't matter to me what you (media) write about me. Soon I will become president of International Cricket Council.
I would like to utilise my time reading and travelling and working for world cricket," he said.
When asked about whether he plans to write an autobiography, he eluded the question with a smile. "People keep saying I give more time to cricket than other work. The fact is that I don't give even three hours a week for cricket. I only ensure that right people are in the right place. I play role of a trouble-shooter" said Pawar.
He termed the IPL experiment as a grand success. "Now cinema theatres are going empty and owners are demanding that tax should be charged on matches.
The IPL has provided an opportunity to the youngsters to prove themselves on a big platform. This is an experiment to hunt for fresh talent and second generation in the cricket," said Pawar.
"IPL franchise will also go to schools and colleges in their areas and train students and look for young talent. When the IPL was initiated we were not sure that it will became such a grand success," admitted Pawar.
Source: TOI, 09/05/2008