His international career could never take off in the limited chances he got, but middle-order batsman S Badrinath, who is currently plying his trade in the Pepsi IPL, harbours hopes of becoming a late-bloomer like his Chennai Super Kings teammate and idol Michael Hussey.
Involved in a 75-run partnership with Suresh Raina last night against Pune Warriors, Badrinath's 31-ball 34 was vital in laying the foundation for CSK's competitive total that ultimately proved ungettable for the opposition.
The 32-year-old Badrinath said he looks up to the Aussie, who is now retired after a successful Australia stint which included Test debut at the age of 30.
"Yes, definitely! I take a lot of inspiration from him. He also played late for the country but played really well. He went on to play seven-eight years of international cricket, brilliantly. So I definitely look up to him and I actually idolise him," Badrinath said.
Elaborating on his rapport with Hussey, Badrinath said he often has long conversations with the veteran, nicknamed Mr. Cricket for his devotion to the game.
"I have always had chats with him, pretty long chats. We are similar type of cricketers so it makes more sense to learn from him rather than any other cricketer," said the Tamil Nadu batsman.
"The way he approaches the game, and the way he finishes games is one of the reasons I am not getting to bat. Spending time with him in the dressing room, every moment I always keep learning from him. Not only this year but over the last five years," he added.
