I am not a terrorist, I am a cricketer: Rasool

"I played the game with only cricket in mind...possibly that is the best way I can respond," an emotional Rasool said about his yesterday's match.

Rasool came under media spotlight for all the wrong reasons after Karnataka police detained him alongwith another cricketer Mehrajuddin on Diwali day after his kit bag allegedly showed traces of explosives.

He was released by the police after questioning for lack of evidence. "I couldn't believe something like this could happen to me. I even thought of quitting as a cricketer. I couldn't sleep the whole night after the incident," recounted Rasool.

Rasool, who raced to his half century in 49 balls in the C K Nayadu game here, said, "I thought only of cricket" and want to forget the traumatic experience. He had entered the cricket ground when two wickets were down for a paltry run count and went on to make 68. "I am elated to be back on the field playing cricket. I was in a poor frame of mind but when I started playing, I forgot everything. I don't have ill-feelings against anyone. I thank God and my family," he said.