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'Tu Drink Karta Hai': Ex-MI Pacer On Struggles To Find Coaching Stints Post Retirement

image-lr3b4wzeFormer Indian cricketer Praveen Kumar (X.com)

Former Indian cricketer Praveen Kumar, known for his swing bowling and impactful performances, played a significant role for various teams, including the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). 

Back in late 2000, Kumar was a celebrated Indian pacer and even made it to the World Cup-winning squad of 2011 before an injury led to Sreesanth's promotion.

However, Kumar's aggressive behavior and questionable off-field habits led to his unfortunate ouster. Eventually, the fast bowler had to bow out due to a lack of opportunities.

Having said that, after calling it quits on his cricketing career, Praveen Kumar began the hunt for a coaching stint in the domestic circuit. However, Kumar's candidature was shunted owing to absurd reasons. 

Praveen Kumar Opens Up On Life Post Retirement

The former MI pacer revealed that questions about his drinking habits have hindered his prospects in the coaching realm. In a candid statement, Kumar mentioned that he never even received an opportunity to guide domestic players, let alone land a coaching stint with an IPL. 

According to Praveen, authorities cited his drinking habit as a reason to oust his candidature. However, the pacer referred to the reasons as bizarre and absurd. He claimed innocence, saying that he never opened up a bottle of alcohol on a cricket field or in the dressing room for that matter.

Not only that, but Kumar expressed disappointment at the stereotype affecting his post-retirement career and emphasized that he has never compromised on his discipline as a player. 

The candid revelation by Praveen Kumar invites reflection on the broader issue of perceptions and stereotypes that athletes may face when seeking opportunities beyond their playing days.

It underscores the importance of recognizing individuals for their skills, experiences, and dedication rather than succumbing to preconceived notions that may hinder their post-retirement endeavors.

Parveen Kumar last featured in the IPL in 2017, wherein he donned a Gujarat Lions jersey. Since then, the pacer has disappeared from the circuit.