Gascoigne and a few more: Former England cricketer Irani helping the depressed

There wasn't much to write home about his international career but Ronnie Irani's life post cricket has been more meaningful, helping those suffering from alcohol addiction and depression, notable among them being England football's eternal problem child, Paul Gascoigne.

Irani, whose England career spanned three Tests and 31 ODIs, was a mildly familiar name with Indian supporters as he got the wickets of Rahul Dravid and Dinesh Mongia in the Natwest Trophy final in 2002.

Now 47, the chairman of cricket at Essex county is a successful businessman, but his life's calling is to help those suffering from mental problems.

"I have been involved with a few things after cricket. I am chairman of cricket Essex but my life is involved in helping people suffering from specific physical and mental condition," Irani told PTI during an interview.

He was initially uncomfortable speaking about it but then revealed how, along with close friend Chris Evans, a UK-based DJ, he funded Gascoigne's alcohol .