[Exclusive] 'Experiencing the local culture is always special' - Kevin O'Brien speaks highly of playing cricket in India

Former Ireland cricketer, Kevin O'Brien is playing for the Konark Suryas Odisha in Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2024. The cricketer dominated the headlines back in 2011 as he helped Ireland cruise past the mighty England bowling attack to register a memorable World Cup 2011 win for his country. He smashed a 50-ball century, which is the third fastest century to date in ODI World Cups. 

On the sidelines of LLC 2024, in an exclusive conversation with CricTracker, the 40-year-old spoke at length about the cricketing culture in India and his experience of playing in Srinagar, Kashmir. He also gave insights into his favourite Indian food and his camaraderie with Konark Suryas Odisha skipper, Irfan Pathan. 

"Yeah, the crowd’s been amazing. I think there must have been around 15,000 people today. They were treated well, with the Universe Boss (Chris Gayle) hitting a few big sixes, which really entertained them. It’s always great to play in front of such a big, noisy crowd that appreciates good cricket. Coming to a smaller city like Srinagar and experiencing the local culture is always special," said O'Brien. 

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Irfan Pathan is a very calm presence under pressure and incredibly relaxed: O'Brien 

O'Brien also termed the Ashes rivalry between England and Australia as the biggest. Speaking of his time with Konark Suryas Odisha, he exuded warmth and praised skipper Irfan Pathan. The former India all-rounder has been at the forefront of leading the team to the Qualifiers. The Irish added that it is fantastic to have Irfan in the dressing room.

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"Well, he’s [Irfan Pathan] our skipper in the Legends League! But apart from that, he’s a very calm presence under pressure and incredibly relaxed. He was a fantastic cricketer for India for many years, and he’s just a great guy overall," O'Brien added.