Big Binga Theory
He’s set the field on fire and intimidated batsmen with his super swift deliveries. His fan following in India is testimony to the fact that he’s adored by cricket buffs here.
We caught up with former Aussie bowler Brett Lee, who was in namooru commentating for the Ind-Aus Test. “Bengaluru is a great city with an awesome vibe. It has friendly people who are very hospitable, and it has great local cuisine. I love coming to India, it’s like my second home,” shares the dimpled man. Ask him how it feels to be back here at the commentary box again and he replies, “It’s surreal! I’ve wanted to be a cricketer since I was very young and being associated with the sport in some form is great.”
On his film career, after having graced the silver screen in the Australian film UnIndian, Brett reveals that he’s looking forward to doing some great work in the future. Being the fervent musician that he is, he says, “Music is my passion - it’s inspiring.I always go around with my guitar and am working towards putting a band together. Let’s hope it all goes well so I can spread some more sounds of joy!”
Binga, as he’s fondly called, was busy spreading awareness for ‘World Hearing Day’ as he is Cochlear’s Global Hearing Ambassador. For Brett, this cause is close to his heart as he shares a personal connection with it.
“My son had a fall and had diminished hearing for about a year, but fortunately, his hearing got back to normal. However, those few months really shook me up. It was a traumatising experience which made me realise what so many people go through. If you or anybody in your family is suffering from hearing loss, you should seek help. A cochlear implant can restore hearing ability,” he says.
Brett recently revealed his soft spot for our country in a column called ‘Secret to playing in India’. Is he now used to all the adulation he gets here? “I’ve met some amazing people here and it’s a privilege to call them my fans. Cricket is like a religion here. The love and respect this country has for us is incredible. I’ve played some great sport here and every time I visit, I’m welcomed with so much love and warmth. India has given me memories that will last forever,” he says.
For his ardent admirers, he says, “I’ve always believed that you have to give everything in life your 100 per cent. That’s what brings out the best in you. The only way we can achieve our dreams and aspirations is when we work hard, stay humble and keep trying no matter what. When someone says you can’t do it, tell yourself of course you can and you will!”