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Sanjay Manjrekar, one of the most recognizable voices in Indian cricket broadcasting, has finally addressed his absence from the IPL 2026 commentary panel, offering a candid explanation during a recent interaction.
“I provoked people”: Manjrekar reflects on his commentary snub
Speaking to Sportstar, Manjrekar admitted that his outspoken approach may have played a role in his absence this season. Known for his strong opinions, the former India cricketer acknowledged that his commentary often stirred reactions.
“The other main reason is to give the viewers a little break as well from me,” he said.
When the host pointed out the lack of provocative voices in the commentary box, Sanjay Manjrekar responded with striking honesty:
“Maybe that's another reason why I'm not on the panel as well. Okay, I provoked people.”
His remarks highlighted a self-aware reflection on how his style has been perceived over the years.
Travel fatigue and lifestyle shift behind IPL absence
Apart from his on-air persona, Manjrekar also revealed that personal choices played a significant role in stepping away from the demanding IPL schedule.
“Uh, well, my life has changed a little bit by my own design. There was actually one year when I was doing studio in Mumbai and doing IPL games on the ground, and I was on one of those flights, and it's like Zombieland,” he explained.
“You sort of go from one place to the other, and I was trying to kill time, and I was looking at my phone, you know, from my travel agent and he would send me those e-tickets. I said, 'Let me just count.' I had taken 46 flights that IPL. And then I said, 'This is... I have to restore some balance. So I have cut down on my travel a lot and focusing on a few important things that will give me, you know, better sort of life health-wise."
His revelation sheds light on the physical toll of constant travel during IPL seasons, as well as his conscious effort to prioritize well-being while scaling back professional commitments.
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