Something I wrote in 2013. Happy birthday @KumarSanga2.
"IPL opening ceremonies are a bit like college reunions. After the mandatory functions, the captains, players and staff invariably drift to the bar to catch up on old times."

Ponting and Lee chatting about Ashes battles over their steak, Kohli catching with his India fielding coach, Trevor Penney, and Adam Gilchrist and Trevor Bayliss exchanging notes on good golf courses. And, of course, Kumar Sangakkara in vintage form.

A couple of hours just flew by while he regaled us with his cricket anecdotes and the the misadventures of his cricket board, guys who made even Suresh Kalmadi look saintly in comparison.

He finally left early, as he had a morning flight, but we got to know from the restaurant staff that he had also quietly cleared the entire bill. Small wonder that he is probably the most popular cricketer in international cricket..