She will be the new face of IPL-6

Model Rochelle Maria Rao, from Chennai, is all set anchor TV’s Extraaa Innings during the cricket League’s forthcoming season

Rochelle Maria Rao’s rise to the top hasn’t been an easy one. From a Chennai model to the international runways she’s done it singlehandedly. She has now bagged the opportunity to anchor Extraaa Innings for Indian Premier League’s upcoming season. It’s a double bonanza –— first to win the Miss India title, and then to get this assignment. “I’m extremely excited and I feel so fortunate about getting this opportunity when I’m only 24 years old. At the same time, I’m very nervous, since it’s a live show. I’m all geared to grab the bull by its horns,” says Rochelle, all eager and determined.

Is she a keen watcher of cricket? “I’ve been watching a lot of cricket and am a big fan of the IPL. I used to save up money to buy tickets just to stay in the stadium and watch it live. Being a part of the IPL has always been my dream and this year, it seems as though all my dreams are coming true,” says Rochelle, who has also been preparing, trying to understand all the nuances of the game and to use the right lingo without searching for the suitable word. “At the moment, I’m watching a lot of One Day and Test matches to understand the finer points of the game. I have also been practising and rehearsing a lot as it’s a live show,” says Rochelle.

Are movies next on the cards? “Talks are on. Something will materialise at the end of the year. For now, all the focus is only on the IPL,” she says.