I play because I love this sport, I am passionate, says Unmukt Chand
Unmukt Chand has stated that he plays cricket in order to exhibit his passion and love for the game and confidently expressed that he will soon fulfill his dream of representing India. He also talked about the U-19 World Cup triumph, reasons for leaving Delhi and his new role with Uttarakhand.
Having started his career by playing for Delhi across various age categories, Unmukt Chand has finally decided to move on. The 26-year-old has received a No Objection Certificate from the state which allows him to join Uttarakhand as the team captain for the upcoming domestic season. Chand hadn’t been picked in the Delhi starting XI since 2017.
“Well, I was not getting any opportunity in Delhi team. There were so many reasons. They were dropping me regularly. Three years back I led the India A team. Just after that series, they dropped me from Delhi’s one-day squad. I wanted to move last year only but couldn’t take the decision. It took me some time to take this decision. It’s hard to leave the place where you started. When I didn’t get a single game last year in the Ranji Trophy , I was pretty sure that now it’s time to go and look for a team where I can play matches. I didn’t want to sit and see others play. That’s why I decided to move on and chose Uttarakhand,” Chand was reported saying by TOI.
However, he remains grateful to the team for having provided him a platform to display his skills that enabled him to represent the country on the bigger stages and bring glory to the nation.
“Whatever it is today, it's because of the cricket I've played for Delhi. This is the place where I started and got recognition. Playing for Delhi was something very big for me and I am proud of it. It has been a great trip so far and emotional also because this is where I learned everything. Playing on several levels, India U19, India A, all this happened due to Delhi, “ Chand added.
Having led India to the 2012 ICC U-19 World Cup title from the front, Chand is yet to achieve parallel success thereafter. All the other three captains to have achieved the feat, namely Mohammad Kaif, Virat Kohli and Prithvi Shaw, have gone on to represent the senior team but Chand is yet to get an opportunity to do the same.
“That was a very special moment for me. I was lucky to lead the Indian team in a great tournament and led them to win the title. That moment will always stay in the heart. It will be the first on my list. The feeling was incredible. But it's time to move on. I want to play and play for my country. Of course, I'm only 26 years old. I am in the best form and I am sure that I will [play for India]. That is my last dream. The rest depends on God,” he stated.
He achieved a lot of recognition after the 2012 tournament and has been used to playing under the spotlight, even though he states it doesn’t matter to him.
“We receive a lot of love from our fans. I love to play, not by flattery; I play because I love this sport. I am passionate I want to play and win games for my country. You need to love what you do. I love to play and will continue to do so,”
When asked about his focus for now, Chand was quick to put his priorities in place.
“For now, the main focus will be to play for Uttarakhand. It will be a different role for me. I have to play and guide other players too. I am sure they will do well. I am happy to go there because my roots are from there. I am happy to return to my roots. I will start my new trip from there,” he signed off.
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