TNPL has been a life-changing experience, says Brett Lee

Brett Lee -- a name synonymous with breath-taking fast bowling and unique wicket-taking celebrations - has now become famous for his shrewd commentary providing the viewers with his great insights of the game. The New South Wales native, who has been working as a commentator in the India Cements TN Premier League, has shared his experiences over the past few weeks.

“I think it has been outstanding as the talent has been tremendous. Obviously, I didn’t know what to expect (from the tournament), but I have been very surprised with the emerging talent. It is a great platform for youngsters and is similar to the Big Bash League – a tournament which unleashes so many talents. All of a sudden, you have so many players, who have been performing well, have not played with the white ball, and have not played under lights. So, it’s exciting, challenging, for the young kids,” he said, in an exclusive interview with the tournament's official website tnca.com.

When asked about the players who have caught his eye with their performances, Lee said,

“That’s easy to say because the ones on the top have been impressive. Jagadeesan has scored a lot of runs, and I am also proud of Ruby Kanchi Warriors, as they were superb despite not making it to the play-offs. But, what I have enjoyed the most is watching the fast bowlers. Antony (Dhas) is one good bowler, and he even got 4 for 9, the other night. I also like Ashwath (Mukunthan), who took 5 for 17, and there is (Lakshmipathy) Balaji - a superstar. He has always been around and I remember playing against him in the early 2000s, in Australia, in Sydney.”

When asked about his experience while travelling across the state of TamilNadu, Lee also revealed few of the words in Tamil he had learnt during the time.

“I have loved it! I learnt a little bit of Tamil - Vanakkam, Machaan, Machi. It has been really good, we have thoroughly enjoyed everything, be it visiting the temples or doing the commentary. Today, we are going to the beaches (Kanyakumari) to do a little bit of shooting. It hasn’t been a cricket commentary trip, but then it has been life-changing.”

Lee advised young players looking for a chance to play in the tournament to keep practising.

“Keep practising! The feedback from the players is that they have been enjoying the tournament. Of course, Star Sports makes them known across the world, the players get to play in front of big crowds, and under lights. Former international cricketers are watching them, commentating about them, so it’s a very good opportunity,” he said.