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Harsha unplugged, literally

'Out of the Box: Watching the Game We Love' is eminent cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle's latest book. It was launched by Sachin Tendulkar at a glittering function in Mumbai on Tuesday.

The book is essentially a collection of the best of Bhogle's articles for The Indian Express.

Bhogle's book launch was followed by a panel discussion on the changing face of cricket.

The panel comprised IPL chairman Lalit Modi, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar, noted journalist Rajdeep Sardesai and Bhogle himself.

Tendulkar gets the first copy

Tendulkar, who has written the introduction to Bhogle's book, was given the first copy.

Harsha requested the 'Master Blaster' to sign a copy for his brother who had flown in all the way from the United States for the occasion.

When Sachin took a back seat

Sachin Tendulkar was happy being a mere spectator for most of the evening, letting the author hog most of the limelight.

Even when he was asked to speak, it was all Bhogle.

"Harsha has given the new generation a direction to take up commentary as a career option," said Tendulkar.

'To be honest, I was not prepared'

The Master Blaster also admitted that he wasn't prepared for the occasion.

"To be honest, I was not prepared. This came in as a surprise," he admitted.

However, to his credit, he not only took some time out of his busy schedule for the launch but also participated in the panel discussion.

Why is the book titled 'Out of the Box'?

To speak about somebody of his (Harsha's) stature is great and I take the opportunity to congratulate him," said Tendulkar.

"And though he is always inside the box, the book is titled Out of the Box!"

The book promises a lot

The 275-page book, priced at Rs 450, is the 11th book from The Indian Express stable.

And going by Harsha's pedigree, it promises a lot.

To know whether it delivers or not, read it.