Sailaja made a lot of sacrifices while I was actively playing cricket: VVS Laxman

Former India batsman VVS Laxman thanked his wife, G.R. Sailaja, for making immense sacrifices and raising the kids while he was playing cricket for the country.

Laxman opened up on the sacrifices his wife had to make and what all he likes to do when he is at home on the latest episode of India Today Inspiration on Saturday.

Laxman made his debut in 1996 and played the sport at the highest level for nearly 16 years. It was in 2004 when he married G.R. Sailaja. They have two kids together Sarvajit (son) and Achinthya (daughter).

I like being at home. Spending time with my family because of all the travel. Once I am at home I like to spend time with my kids. When they have school, I drop them to the bus. All the small pleasures of a father.

Spend time with Shailaja. I know she had made a lot of sacrifices while I was actively playing the game. Even post-retirement while I was actively involved. She almost single-handedly raised our kids, Laxman said on Inspiration.

The 45-year-old then went on to add that he likes to play all kinds of sports with his son while his daughter loves playing tennis.

Personally for me, I love listening to music, reading books. I don't go out to watch movies, but I watch at home with my family. And I like playing sports. So with my son, I play badminton, tennis and then sometimes in my backyard we have a game of cricket. My daughter also joins us.

My daughter loves playing tennis. SO just being physically active with them. My daughter loves art so I help her color. She learns to dance. She learns Kuchupudi dance. So when I come home she tells me what all the new steps she learned in her class. It is a very normal, relaxed life for me, Laxman said.

Laxman retired from all forms of cricket in 2012 after having played 134 Tests and 86 ODIs in which he amassed 8781 and 2338 runs respectively, with 17 centuries in the longest format and 6 in 50-over cricket.