Ashish Reddy likes to keep it simple

Whenever I have biryani, the next morning I put extra effort in the gym to burn those extra calories - Ashish Reddy

One of the most celebrated sporting events in cricket, the Indian Premiere League (IPL) is a dream-come-true for any cricketer and being part of the showpiece event makes one a celebrity in their own right.

Medium-pace bowling all-rounder from Secunderabad, Ashish Reddy justified his selection into the IPL Hyderabad brigade with the now disbanded Deccan Chargers by claiming 10 wickets in nine matches. All of 25, Ashish Reddy is playing in the IPL from 2012. He is known for his useful contribution in the lower order in crucial times.

In a candid interview with The Hans India at ITC Kakatiya, the young cricketer spoke about his stint in the cash-rich league, his fitness regimen, style statement and more. Keeping true to the Gen-Y’s minimalistic ideology, Ashish likes to keep things simple. His style statement is all about comfort. “I think it’s about dressing well. I prefer simple tees and jeans for my everyday look. Whatever you wear, you should carry it well… that’s the secret,” he smiles.

What’s Ashish Reddy doing when he is not playing cricket? “I’m out shopping with my wife and watching movies,” he says. A typical day in his life is more or less all about cricket. “When I am playing domestic cricket, I wake up early and go for practice and in the evening I do my recovery and stuff. Usually, I am busy the whole day,” he shares.

No points for guessing his favourite dish. Yes, it is Hyderabadi biryani. As a cricketer he has to strictly follow his diet, however, Ashish has a biryani now and then. “Whenever I have biryani, the next morning I put extra effort in the gym to burn those extra calories,” says Ashish.

Talking about Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) form this year, a happy Ashish says, “The team is doing good now, though we lost the initial two matches. However, we bounced back well. The team is in a good momentum and I hope we will carry that forward.”

It is a special feeling to watch stalwarts of cricket up close. Ashish reveals that there are many fond memories, which he will cherish for a lifetime. “Sharing the dressing room with senior and international cricketers, we get to know a lot of things about the game. Sitting beside them and chatting with them gives more knowledge and it helps us to improve our game,” he shares.

Speaking about his favourite player from his squad, Ashish says, “There are many! Although, if I have to choose one then I would say our captain David Warner. He is in great form and leading the team from the front. As a captain, he gives us freedom to play our natural game.” “It is great batting with Warner; he hits each and every bowler and it makes easy for players at non-striker’s end to bat,” he adds.

Sharing about his favourite cricketer Ashish says, “South African legend, Jacques Kallis is my favourite player. He is the best all-rounder in the world and I take immense inspiration from him.” “I love the IPL! It’s a great platform for young cricketers and it gives them wonderful international exposure,” concludes Reddy, who is hopeful to play for the national squad.

By Navin Pivhal