Former IPL commentator Arun Lal's battle with cancer

Dubai - Lal is battling with a rare and dangerous jaw cancer well away from the spotlight

Harsha Bhogle's ouster from the ninth Indian Premier League commentary box became a hotly discussed topic across media platform but no one seem to have noticed the absence of his fellow commentator Arun Lal from the line-up of commentators.
He is battling with jaw cancer well away from the spotlight, according to a report in Indian English daily The Hindu.
Speaking from a Kolkata hospital, the cricketer-turned-commentator confirmed he was on the recovery path after surgery.
"It's a rare and dangerous cancer. The symptoms were detected in time (in January) before I went through a rigorous treatment process. Thank God, I have been able to hold my place," the gritty former Indian opener told the newspaper.
The treatment involved a 14-hour surgery and replacement of the jaw. "Obviously it is like a new life. It was tough but I am indebted to the fantastic job by the doctors," said the 60-year-old, whose absence from the IPL commentary box was not noticed by the media.
Lal said that he got calls from close friends.
Yuvraj Singh, who had waged a successful fight of his own against cancer after having contributed to India's 2011 World Cup triumph, was among the caller.
"I know what it feels like because I have been through this. It's nice if you can share someone's pain and help him overcome it. I always try to understand the mindset of the patient because it mentally defeats you," the paper quoted Yuvraj.
Lal made six Test fifties for India - one on debut against Sri Lanka in 1982 and two against Pakistan in the same match at Eden Gardens in 1987. He played his final matches for India on the tour of West Indies in 1988-89.
Lal, who played India's first class cricket (Ranji Trophy) for Bengal and Delhi, struck an unbeaten half-century in the 1989-90 Ranji Trophy final as Bengal ended a 51-year wait for the trophy. He played first-class cricket until 1995 and was an active presence in club cricket for a further six years. Lal announced his retirement from competitive cricket at the age of 45.
Lal said he he hopes to be back in the commentary in next two months.