Cricket
Ireland’s Kevin O’Brien Reflects on India’s Passion for Cricket and His Memorable Journey in Legends League
Kevin O’Brien reflects on India's passion for cricket, his memorable 2011 ODI World Cup century, and his enjoyable experience playing in the Legends League Cricket.
George Tewkesbury/Sportsfile via Getty Images
When we talk about Ireland cricket, Kevin O’Brien is probably the first name that comes to our mind. The right-handed batter left a legacy behind in Ireland colours, making big runs not only against associate teams but in front of Test nations as well.
Kevin retired from international cricket in 2022 after playing 153 ODIs, 110 T20Is and 3 Tests. He is currently playing in various T20 leagues around the world. With over 3600 runs in ODIs and 1973 runs in T20Is to his name, O’Brien inspired a lot of youngsters across Ireland.
He is mostly known for a brilliant hundred, which he scored against England in the 2011 ODI World Cup in India. He fired that ton in just 50 balls, setting the record for the fastest hundred in ODI World Cup history– which was later broken by Aiden Markram and Glenn Maxwell. Kevin’s knock helped Ireland tie the match against mighty England.
India has since been his favourite destination. He receives a lot of love from people and has enjoyed quite a few good outings in the country. Not just due to that historic century, Kevin has overall had a brilliant experience in playing and staying in India.
I love coming to India. For the last 15 years or so, first with the Irish team and now the last couple of seasons in Legends League, I have enjoyed it here. It is a great place to play cricket.
Kevin O’Brien
The 40-year-old feels astonished by the passion people in India have for cricket and admires the respect they give to cricketers.
“People are really passionate about the game in India. There is always a good crowd. You are well-supported, and people respect you for what you have done, irrespective of where you come from. I really enjoy coming back here. I love the food too,” he said.
Kevin was one of the top batters for Konark Suryas Odhisa, who reached the finals of Legends League Cricket (LLC)– an Indian-based T20 franchise tournament for retired cricketers. The Irfan Pathan-led side lost to Souther Super Stars after a thrilling final that ended in the Super Over on Wednesday (October 16).
Mohsin Kamal is a senior journalist from Kashmir and reports on all major sports events from India.