Passion for the game keeps me going: Brad Hogg

At 45, Brad Hogg is an important member of the Kolkata Knight Riders. His wiliness, deceiving flight, and old-fashioned spin bowling has seen him become a vital piece in the jigsaw. Hogg, who retired in 2008, made a comeback to international cricket shortly after, playing for the Perth Scorchers.

However, while Hogg was turning heads in the Big Bash League, Australian coach Mickey Arthur suggested that Hogg play in the 2012 World T20. 41-year old Brad Hogg not only played the World T20 in Sri Lanka, but was a vital cog in the Australian wheel as they reached the semifinals.

Speaking just before the facing up to the might of the Mumbai Indians, Hogg said that the passion for the game is what keeps him going. He also stated that he was lucky to have such opportunities after making a comeback.

“Having the passion of wanting to play keeps me going,” Hogg said on Tuesday (April 12), flashing his trademark grin whilst at the IPL. “I retired in 2008 and had two-three years out of the game. To have the opportunity to be able to come back and do what you love, I don’t take it for granted. I still love it and have the passion of a five-year-old kid that first had the dream of playing for Australia. The game’s changed and evolved and T20 competitions have given a new lease of life to cricket. It’s given a new lease of life to me.”

In 2008, Hogg had nailed down a spot in the Australian Test team. However, he announced his retirement citing family issues.

I do regret retiring in 2008. I had the Test spot for Australia at that stage, but I had some personal issues with family. I retired then and I wish I didn’t because the marriage didn’t survive.