New daredevil on the block

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He was four years old when he started playing cricket with his colony kids. By the age of seven, he was breaking many windowpanes. Then his neighbours urged his parents to send the young and talented Unmukt Chand to an academy where he could hone his talent.

From mohalla cricket to the national level, Unmukt is being touted as the next big thing in Indian cricket ever since his unbeaten 111 won India the U-19 World Cup last year.
Delhi Daredevils might not have had an ideal start to their campaign in the ongoing Pepsi IPL-6, losing all three of their matches so far, but the young opener is confident of his team bouncing back in the tournament. Unmukt, who had played just two matches last season, has been opening the innings with David Warner, but has failed to make an impression yet, getting ducks on two occasions. “Failures are a part and parcel of the game. But I am trying to learn from my mistakes. In the upcoming matches, I will try to get myself in and make sizeable contributions,” says the former Under-19 skipper who was seen at the launch of Reebok CrossFit gym in the capital.
As the tournament progresses, 20-year-old Unmukt looks forward to reversing the fortunes of himself and that of his team. “Cricket has its moments — ups and downs happen for every team, we are excited about the future and look forward to the upcoming matches to fix the mistakes. We are a capable side. It’s a long tournament and I am sure we will certainly bounce back,” says the confident cricketer.
Sharing about his fitness mantra, Unmukt says, “I am a fitness freak and my passion for cricket demands high levels of fitness and energy on the field. The National Cricket Academy sends a schedule to me, which includes an eclectic regimen of field exercises, running as well as gym work uts.”
So how does he balance both studies and sports? “I try to be disciplined and attend the university classes as much as I can. I catch up on assignments and studies between practice and busy schedules. I realise that studies are as important as cricket for me,” says the youngster.
Talking about his inspirations on his field, Unmukt shares, “I am highly inspired by Sachin Tendulkar. Another cricketer I look up to on the field is Virat Kohli who is doing a great job these days to make our country proud.”
Does all the adulation and being around star players affect the young cricketer? “I keep my focus on cricket and surround myself with family and friends who keep me grounded. Anytime I feel overwhelmed I tighten my grip on my goal, which is to perform for the team and do a great job and keep practising to get better,” he says.
Talking about his future plans, Unmukt says, “Though I am not allowed to talk much, all I can tell you is that I am coming out with a book about my World Cup experience soon.”
Sharing about his love for the capital, Unmukt says, “Delhi is the city I grew up in, so it is definitely my favourite; I love the spirit of Delhiites and the vibe of the city. I love the cricket fever that grips Delhi on the whole.”