Femme Fatale

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How did the FIFA project fall into your lap?
I have been freelancing for the past couple of months and people at ESPN knew me. They were looking out for someone and got in touch with me to present the show. I quite liked the concept and things started rolling from there. I am on a contract with ESPN just for FIFA.

Going back a little,where did the love for this game stem from?
I have always been involved in sports since the time I was a kid. I have lived and grown up in the US. I have also played football for my college team in the United States. My father was in the army and later when we were transferred to Delhi I joined Hindu College. I graduated in B.A and at around the same time my interest in football grew manifold.

When did you begin anchoring shows?
I started sometime during college when I got an offer to anchor for FIFA Beach football. After that I was the associate producer for Football Cafe on Zee Sports and anchored a couple of shows on channels like Zee Sports and Ten Sports. I would give live commentary for European Football and I have also given commentary for Indian football for four years. In fact not just football,I have been associated with cricket and hockey also. I was the host of the FHI,Mens Hockey World Cup 2010 on Ten Sports.

Considering you are the only female in a man’s game,how difficult is it for you?
Well,its not as difficult as it seems. I am not one of the expert panelists so it is comparatively easier. I am a presenter so my job is to ask questions and interact with the guests,not pass judgements and remarks. I love what I do and I am happy with the show.

Do you have any future plans to be on the panel of experts with John Dykes?
I am not a professional. Yes I do know a lot about the game and sports in general but I don’t think I am qualified enough to be an expert. Moreover the panel should consist of people who have either been footballers and represented their country or people who play football. I am happy anchoring shows.

Which team are you rooting for?
I am not rooting for any one particular team as such. People have been saying that this year the World Cup has not been exceptional and the teams are more or less defensive in general,but more than anything else,this year has been unexpected.

So,which players have been the surprise packet this season?
Well,the big names have failed to work their magic this year. Except for Lionel Messi (Argentina),all the other stars were out of focus. David Villa (Spain) has been a one man show for Spain and an unexpected player. Mueller (Germany) has also been performing well.

What next after FIFA?
Frankly I don’t really know. There are a couple of things which may work out but nothing planned as yet. As of now I am in Mumbai but Delhi is my home. Lets see what works out.

So will you be flying to South Africa to watch the finals?
Unfortunately it doesn’t look like that. I shall probably be enjoying the finals with my friends.