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Sonu Sood all for promoting sports
Sonu Sood might have started out to become an engineer, and instead, landed up in acting, but not many people know that he had a keen desire to become a sportsman.
“I’m from a sports background, and always wanted to become either a cricketer or footballer; in short, just play some sport and represent my country. I got diverted, but the sportsman in me is still alive,” says Sonu.
It is this side of the actor, which made him get a professional cricket pitch constructed in his housing society in Lokhandwala, Mumbai. “People should have access to sports, especially in cities like Mumbai, where we have a shortage of space. So, I got this pitch constructed for children, and it isn’t just limited to kids in my society, but is open to neighbouring ones as well. There will be cricket kits available, too,” reveals the actor, whose eightyear old son Ayaan is already on his way to become a cricketer.
Like any proud father, Sonu says, “He [Ayaan] loves cricket. Those who have seen him play say he’s the new [Rahul] Dravid in the making! He’s got the footwork and drive. People come and watch him play, since he’s supremely stylish and talented. Elder professional cricketers who have watched him play say they haven’t seen any other eight-year-old play like him.”
The actor also supports the government’s initiative, Khelo India, aimed at encouraging and inculcating sports into the day-to-day lives of youngsters.
“Children these days are glued to the television or smartphones. The responsibility lies more on parents, who should push their kids to go out and play” Sonu says.