Meet Sharaz Baksh, The Prankster From Boston

Newyorkcricket.com had the opportunity of speaking with Sharaz Baksh, and talks about his work ethic, being coach by some of West Indies greats. Here is the full interview with the left handed batsman.

Sharaz Baksh (right) with legendary West Indies pacer Courtney Walsh.

Tell us about yourself?
My name is Sharaz Baksh. I was born and raised in Guyana, South America and now reside in Boston. I have always had a passion for cricket, and from a young age. It was an honor to represent the prestigious Port Mourant Cricket Club at all levels. It’s a club that produced a number of great West Indies cricketers. I was coached and groomed by some of the international and national greats from the club, such as Rohan Kanhai, Joe Solomon, Vejay Seonarine, to name a few.

Tell us about your training routines
My training routine varies from time to time. I would sometimes do boxing, crossfit, basketball, running, or slight/moderate weight lifting.

Who is the toughest player you know?
I would to think myself. (Laugh)

What is the craziest thing you have done while playing cricket?
Fielded at forward short leg, (Laugh) where I took quite a few blows.

What’s your favorite wicket celebration routine?
I like Brett Lee’s mid-air celebrations.

Give us your view on the state of USA Cricket, and how to improve the game
I think it needs a complete overhaul in administration.  More emphasis on regional tournaments and trials from which point players would be selected on merit, hence a more competitive national team.

Tell us something we do not know about you?
I am a bit of a prankster and like being silly sometimes for a few laughs.

If cricket has taught you one thing, what is it?
Determination.

Can you cook?
Absolutely NOT it might even be a challenge to get the stove lit.

Sharaz Baksh batting during NY T20 Big Bash 2014 tournament where he scored a ton. Photo by Shiek Mohamed

What’s your biggest weakness?
Underestimating bowlers.

Who is your favorite cricket commentator?
Danny Morrison, he is so enthusiastic and makes commentary exciting.

Do you collect anything?
Sometimes I collect the game ball if something remarkable happens.

What’s the best compliment you have ever received from a fellow cricketer?
You inspire your team and you are a team player.

What is the best cricket souvenir you have?
I haven’t really collected cricket souvenirs besides the match balls.

Where is the best place in USA to play cricket?
Boston, Massachusetts of course. The atmosphere is fantastic, large crowds, music, BBQ’s, family outings, even dominoes at the park every weekend.

Who’s your all-time hero outside of cricket?
My father.

What’s your favorite shot?
Cover or straight drive.

Would you rather take a five-wicket haul or score a fifty?
I am batsman, but I always fancy bowling, so I would take a five-wicket haul.  🙂

Which cricketer in the world would you pay to watch?
That’s simple the master Brian Lara. I would pay top $$ to see his elegance and flair.

Describe yourself in three words?
Friendly, positive, and competitive

Have you got any superstitions?
No, I don’t have any superstitions.

Are you handy at any other sports?
Yes definitely. I play a bit of every sport basketball, volleyball, table tennis, football (soccer) and everything in between.