ODI World Cup 2023: Here is why Marcus Stoinis is traveling with personal chef in India

Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis, a staunch advocate of fitness and dietary precision, embarked on a tour of India for the ODI World Cup 2023, accompanied by a personal chef. Stoinis is adhering to a ketogenic diet, characterized by its high-fat, low-carb nature. Among his preferred dishes is baked oats enriched with protein, as mentioned in latest reports.

Velton Saldanha, hailing from Mumbai and skilled in the art of French cuisine, is the chef accompanying the 34-year-old during his India journey. Their culinary collaboration began during this year's Indian Premier League, thanks to a recommendation from fellow Lucknow Super Giants player, KL Rahul. Saldanha had previously worked in esteemed fine-dining establishments in Chicago and New York.

“Quite a few of the Indian boys do it, that’s where I got the idea. I’ve always been quite strict with my food and all that stuff in my preparation. Garlic naan is out. Gluten-free banana bread and shepherd’s pie with roasted cauliflower mash are in. A roast butter chicken, the intersection of Saldanha’s French training and his Indian heritage, has also been a hit,” Stoinis told cricket.com.au’s Unplayable Podcast.

Also Check: ODI World Cup 2023 Schedule

Stoinis makes changes in his diet in pursuit of reaching his peak

While the Australia squad boasts its own chef responsible for meal preparation during their travels across the country, the all-rounder  batter is taking an extra stride in his relentless pursuit of peak performance. He firmly believes that investing in a personal chef is far from frivolous spending. Despite his financial commitment, Stoinis has faced inconsistency in this tournament, notably missing the opening match due to hamstring and quad issues.

“Stoinis is getting by on baked oats — at least for the small carbohydrate portion of his meticulously curated diet. By the end of the World Cup, Saldanha might be able to sell the ‘Sto­inis Oats’ as a standalone dish,” the report said.