Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif turned 41 on December 1 and the iconic batsman shared some unforgettable memories. His performances often proved to be match-winning knocks and Kaif is also credited with being one of the best fielders of his time who inspired the team to improve.

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However, along with his on-field exploits, Kaif’s off the field incidents are difficult to forget as well. His career was marred by controversy and more often than not he came across as smug. We recall one such incident.

It took place when Kaif was playing in the Indian Premier League. Legendary Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne wrote about his time with the Rajasthan Royals in the first season of IPL in his autobiography, No Spin.

Warne shed light upon the incident involving Mohammad Kaif which revealed the difference between Indian and Australian sporting cultures. Rajasthan Royals were crowned champions in the premiere T20 tournament’s inaugural edition.

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Shane Warne wrote, ‘Mohammad Kaif did something that needed to be resolved immediately. When we reached the hotel with the RR team, all the players had taken  keys to their rooms. I was talking to the team owners on the replacement. It was then that he saw Mohammed Kaif speaking to the receptionist. ‘I am Kaif.’ The receptionist said, ‘Yes, how can I help you?’

Kaif replied, ‘I am Kaif.’  Warne then approached Kaif and said, ‘I think he knows who you are, what do you want? Kaif replied, ‘Like every player, I have been given a small room.’ I said, ‘Do you want a big room?’ He replied, ‘I am Kaif. I am a senior player, an international player, so I want a big room.’

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Warne added, ‘I
told him that everyone had got the same kind of room. I’ve only got a big room
because I had to meet many people.  After which Kaif left.