It’s a lethal combination: Shilpa Shetty

march.26.09
Even as the IPL gets shifted to South Africa, Rajasthan Royals co-owner Shilpa Shetty tells TOI that she will be present at all her team’s matches overseas If you had to resolve the IPL problem, would you have taken a stance similar to that of the government’s? It is not the government’s stand, but the decision of the IPL management and BCCI and they have done what’s best in the current scenario. It is a Catch- 22 situation. If the choice is between not having the tournament or having it in another country, I too would rather choose the latter.

With the IPL venue being shifted to South Africa, do you think a right message has been sent to other nations about India’s capability when it comes to handling two major events at a time?
I am in London and when I heard of the recent developments on the IPL front on BBC, it was a topic of debate here considering it’s the “Indian” premier league. Having it on foreign soil certainly takes away the very essence of the hysteria and fan support. But it’s easier said than done and because of the recent terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan players in Pakistan, security is a major concern. Because the elections and the IPL season are colliding and with both requiring even higher security now, it would be worse if there are any lapses during such a big event.

Will you be as involved as Preity and SRK with your team and be present for all their matches?
That goes without saying.

You have pledged to donate Rs 6,000 for every six hit by a Rajasthan Royal batsman in the coming season. Would that be your incentive to the team? Or do you expect to reward them with personal gifts too?
It’s neither any incentive nor am I putting any pressure on my batsmen. But it’s a great opportunity for them to do some charity by simply playing well. And the intention was for a good cause! I haven’t thought about personal gifts yet.

Did you think it would be a safe bet to own Rajasthan Royals because of their previous win?
I have bet on RR as a long term investment plan after considering their consistent performance and management on and off the field.

Do your team make news because the glamorous Shilpa is its co-owner or because the underdogs won the Cup?
I think it’s a lethal combination.

Are you a cricket freak?
I love the sport and in comparison to my dad, I am nothing. I enjoy the 20-20 format.

Moving away from cricket, did you get to meet Jade’s children?
When I landed in London, Jade had, unfortunately, slipped into coma… My heart goes out to Jade’s family and hope they are able to deal with this irreparable loss.

What’s the one sixer you’d like to hit personally and professionally?
Personally, produce good children and professionally produce good films….Halla Bol.