“Gratitude to all the coaches, teachers and mentors of the game who helped me understand this game better.”

Always hold on to what you love.

Our oceans hold some of the most incredible species on the planet. It’s a world we’ve only started to explore. It’s a world we must value and protect.

My love for cricket drives my attitude.

Months of uncertainty and hard work, and it all boils down to THIS very moment, the moment that makes us who we are.

Kit up, pick your bat and focus on the next mission.

I am happy with the way I hit the ball. There is a certain element of power into it but not completely. It is like 80 per cent timing and 20 per cent power. Why do I need power hitting when I can clear the ropes with timing?

It pumps me up – the whole idea of the bowler marking his run-up, popping at the crease, the crowd chanting, nerves building up. It’s a very good feeling. Right from the first ball, I know I have to be at the top of my game.

Between net practice sessions, there’s another game I play when chilling with the team – trying new cuisines.

Cricket has taught me how to overcome impossible challenges. The ground is where I find most joy and happiness.

To make this world a better place we need compassion but we also need accountability for our actions.

Comebacks are not at all easy. After a major surgery, the difficult part is to conquer the inner demons. It’s all in the mind. Only an individual can overcome his fears.

There will be times in South Africa when we will be challenged as a team. We have to stand up to that.

Every time you play for your country, there is responsibility. But when you are captaining, you can say so; you have to lead from the front and make sure the team follows the direction you want them to.

Keep your heart in the game, and you’ll be a force to be reckoned with.

Every first-class season is important; every game is crucial, irrespective of whether you are in the Indian team or not.

It’s a cliche, but you will always be your most fierce competitor.

I find myself born into this particular position. I’m determined to make the most of it. And to do whatever I can to help. And I hope I leave things behind a little bit better than I found them.

Don’t run from lessons; they are little packages of treasure that have been given to us. As we learn from them, our lives change for the better.

Let it never surprise true Christians if they are slandered and misrepresented in this world. They must not expect to fare better than their Lord.

[God] wants you to have something far better than riches and gold, and that is helpless dependence upon Him.

Find better company, find company of people better than yourself so you be surrounded with those best in character and so you may learn something.

If you are waiting for anything in order to live and love without holding back, then you suffer. Every moment is the most important moment of your life. No future time is better than now to let down your guard and love.

Islam is not about “we’re better than you”. Rather it is about “let me show you something that is better for you.

I always assume I look better than I actually do. I’ll feel pretty good about myself when I leave the house, then I’ll see a picture and think, ‘Crap, I had no idea that’s what I was looking like.’