Arun Lal made a miraculous return to the commentary box a mere two months after promising to be back in the commentary box after being diagonosed with a rare case of jaw cancer.
The former opener’s disease was identified in January and he underwent intensive treatment, including a 14-hour surgery and replacement of his jaw in January. He further underwent radiation following surgery in February.
At the time, Yuvraj Singh, who has also famously battled cancer said, "I know what it feels like because I have been through this," Yuvraj said. "It's nice if you can share someone's pain and help him overcome it. I always try to understand the mindset of the patient because it mentally defeats you."
The former India opener had said in April that he hoped on returning to the commentary box in two months after recovering. Being a man of his word, Arun Lal resumed duty behind the microphone as a part of a commentary panel consisting VVS Laxman and Dean Jones and others for the Cricket Association of Bengal’s Super League match at Eden Gardens. He was excited to be back at such a historic occasion, being the first time a pink cricket ball was used in India.
“The doctors at Tata Memorial Center (Kolkata) have performed a miracle. I am looking great with very little distortion,” remarked Arun Lal.
Dr P Arun, who was a part of the surgery team, said: “Arun Lal getting back to work is great news. I appreciate his grit in braving a very intense course of treatment. His positive attitude is an encouragement to all patients battling the disease. He has sent out the right message — cancer cannot stop you if you have decided to move on.”
The match itself, held experimentally under lights and beamed live on Star Sports before India take a call on hosting day-night Tests got off to a good start. Batting first, Mohan Bagan put on an impressive 299 on the back of good knocks from Anustup Majumdar and Sanjib Sanyal. Indian cricket team star Mohammed Shami looked good, adding 36. Bhawanipore, in response, got off to a rocky start, teetering at 40/6 with Mohammed Shami ripping through the batting line up, claiming 3 wickets.
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