Decision to move base from Delhi to Uttrakhand ahead of the coming domestic season wasn't an easy one for Unmukt Chand but the 26-year-old said it's a step in the right direction as he strives to rejuvenate his struggling career.
"Of course, it’s an emotional moment for me to leave Delhi. I have always been a Delhi boy. But these things are not planned. Things happen. I have enjoyed playing cricket in Delhi... all my age groups," Unmukt told Times Now.
"I have learnt over the years. The Ranji Trophy experience has been superb under all the seniors - Viru bhai (Virender Sehwag), Gauti bhai (Gautam Gambhir), Virat (Kohli), Shikhar (Dhawan), Ishant (Sharma)."
"So it has been tremendous. I cherish every moment I spent with Delhi but last two-years have not been very kind. But that’s ok. Few hard experiences don’t make the whole experience a bad one."
Unmukt, once considered the next big thing in Indian cricket following his exploits during the 2012 U-19 World Cup in Australia, added: "Last 2-3 years have not been good for me in Delhi. Yes, I have had lots of comebacks in last 2-3 years....you know I was getting dropped time and again."
"So every match felt like a comeback match for me. It was a great experience playing for Delhi but Uttarakhand is another challenge."
The talented right-hander is excited about the shift to Uttarakhand and wishes to not only score a lot of runs but also enjoy his time in the set-up. Not being able to do so is what also prompted the move from Delhi.
"I have a connection with Uttarakhand...my roots are in Uttaranchal. So it feels like home. It’s good I have been able to acclimatise here...really enjoying the environment. Hopefully, can do a better job with Uttarakhand."
"It’s important for me or anyone to enjoy cricket. If that’s not happening then there is no point. It’s not about consulting anyone. There were offers (to move from Delhi) last year as well. Looking at last year, not getting even a single Ranji trophy game made me sure that I don’t want to continue," he concluded.
