Try it with the English and you’ll end up frustrated with their reserve. And the Indians are so media-hounded that, frankly, they sometimes can’t be bothered.
But there are few things more amiable than a press conference with the Australian cricket team. If you can get past the security, that is. At the Aussies’ hideout in the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, staff insisted the poolside area was for ‘residential guests only’.
An intrepid Newsline reporter decided her only way in was to pose as an actress. But her cover was blown by an eagle-eyed Brett Lee, who recognised her.
It’s probably best not to try and hoodwink Lee in his area of expertise, anyway. ‘‘Indian actresses, mate,’’ he once answered when asked what he liked about India.
Still jet-lagged, the team was enjoying a light brunch at the Taj’s poolside restaurant. Lee went for spaghetti while fast bowler Jason Gillespie wolfed down a club sandwich. The chicken makhni, however, was shunned. ‘‘We find Indian food very spicy for our taste,’’ admitted Gillespie. But Shane Warne takes no chances. ‘‘I get sick here so I carry my own stuff to eat. I’ve got some protein shakes, spaghetti, beans and cereals.’’
But it was Kingfisher that washed it all down, not the official sponsor, Foster’s.
Sure enough, the beer controversy came up at the post-brunch press conference ‘‘Well, I had Foster’s for sure,’’ protested Gillespie.
He then had to field questions about his new ‘mullet’ hairstyle and beard. Were they meant to intimidate opponents?
‘‘I don’t know if it’s intimidating to Indian batsmen,’’ said Gillespie. ‘‘I think they’d have a good laugh if I really thought that.’’
Finally, a real cricket question: Which Indian bowler could you pit yourself against? ‘‘Why don’t you just make up the answer to that one yourself?’’ he suggested.
Meanwhile, the two Shanes—Warne (35) and Watson (23)—were representing the old and young faces of the Aussie team. ‘‘The excitement in India is amazing,’’ he said. ‘‘I’m trying to get used to the conditions, the crowds, the people.
Despite his tummy, veteran Warne was clearly in his element. ‘‘I just love the people here, the way they embrace you and follow cricket. It’s a great place to tour.’’