It was a memorable day for cricket enthusiasts at IILM University Gurugram as renowned cricket administrator and author Amrit Mathur graced the campus for the launch of his much-anticipated book, “Pitchside.” The event, organized by the university, provided a unique opportunity for students and sports aficionados to gain a deeper insight into the world of cricket and the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped Indian cricket.
Amrit Mathur, a seasoned cricket administrator with a career spanning three decades, became one of the youngest managers of the Indian cricket team when he was handpicked by BCCI President Madhavrao Scindia for the historic South Africa tour in 1992. His experiences, insights, and memorable moments from this journey are now beautifully encapsulated in his book, “Pitchside.”
The event kicked off with an introduction by the university’s staff, where Amrit Mathur was lauded for his remarkable contributions to the world of cricket. The book was unveiled, and attendees were treated to an engaging discussion about Mathur’s journey as an administrator and author.
Mathur’s book takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of Indian cricket, from his early days as a manager to his roles in shaping the Indian Premier League (IPL) and his key position with the Delhi Daredevils. His meticulous diaries and notes kept throughout the years have been transformed into a rich tapestry of storytelling, providing a rare peek into the dressing room conversations, team meetings, and the events that transpired off the pitch.
Speaking to an eager audience, Amrit Mathur shared anecdotes and insights that shed light on the intriguing world of cricket administration. He described the thrill of being part of the initial planning for the IPL, the challenges he faced, and the satisfaction of seeing it become a global phenomenon. The audience was also privy to his experiences with BCCI presidents and state cricket associations, painting a vivid picture of his journey.
One of the highlights of Mathur’s talk was the candid moments he shared about the book-writing process. He revealed that his inspiration for “Pitchside” came from the detailed notes he had taken during his numerous cricket tours in India and abroad. These notes became the foundation for the book, allowing readers to feel like they are right there, in the heart of the action.
Mathur’s book is not just about cricket but also about the people, friendships, and experiences that have made his journey memorable. “Pitchside” is a treasure trove of nostalgia, laughter, and curiosity for cricket enthusiasts, and it was evident that Amrit Mathur’s passion for the game shone brightly during his talk.
The event concluded with a book signing session, where attendees had the opportunity to meet the author in person, get their copies of “Pitchside” signed, and even engage in some lively cricket discussions.
In the end, the launch of “Pitchside” by Amrit Mathur was not just a book launch; it was an immersive experience that allowed cricket lovers to connect with the sport on a deeper level. Amrit Mathur’s journey as a cricket administrator and his gift for storytelling have made “Pitchside” a must-read for anyone who wants to dive into the captivating world of Indian cricket, its memorable moments, and the fascinating tales behind the scenes.
