This month we caught up with Vikas Laxman, a regular member of the DPR Hot Dogs D2 side and responsible for organising the umpires in for the SCC League competition.

1. How and when did you get involved in cricket in Shanghai?
In 2006 I was walking around Jinqiao and saw some expats playing cricket in whites at the Dulwich ground. I was so keen to join them that I went there and met Irfan Idress, who was playing for the Hot Dogs. I asked him if I could play in any of the teams, and he introduced me to Chad, the then Hot Dogs D1 captain. I joined the nets on the following Saturday, and it’s been the best thing to happen to me in Shanghai.

2. Who taught you to play cricket?
Actually, in India, no one needs to teach any kid to play cricket. It’s the most loved and played game by almost every kid. So I didn’t get any formal training. Instead I played gully cricket, and then in local grounds with a tennis ball. I started playing with a leather cricket ball from the age of 13-14 at a local club, Hindu Gymkhana, so I got some coaching from the club coaches. My father was also a good player, and we’ve always had good discussions about the game, so that contributed as well. Continue reading “Six Over Square Leg: Vikas Laxman Calls Them How He Sees Them” →