Unmukt Chand is set to become the first Indian to feature in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) as Melbourne Renegades roped in him for the 2021-2022 season.
The former U-19 World Cup winning captain had announced his retirement from Indian cricket earlier this year to pursue his cricketing career in USA.
Chand, a former India A skipper, had never made it to senior Indian team but was part of three IPL franchises — Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals. He has the experience of 67 First-Class matches and 120 List A games, having played in the domestic circuit for more than a decade.
"I'm very excited, it's great to be part of the Melbourne Renegades family," said Chand, who led India to U-19 World Cup triumph in 2012.
"I've always followed the Big Bash and it's a great opportunity for me to come and play some good cricket. I'm really looking forward to coming to Melbourne and to get going.
"I've always enjoyed playing in Australia. I haven't been to Melbourne before. I know for a fact there are lots of Indians in Melbourne, so it's going to be nice, and I hope the crowds turn up for games as well."
Chand further acknowledged that it’s a big opportunity for his career.
"I've always wanted to play in leagues like these and it's great that now I have this opportunity to be representing the Renegades in the Big Bash, so for me it's big.
"I really look forward to contributing as much as I can on the field. I'll give it my best shot."
Speaking on Unmukt Chand’s signing, Renegades head coach David Saker said: "We're delighted to have Unmukt joining the Renegades and see him being an important part of our group."
"He brings a wealth of cricket experience. To have a player joining our team who has represented three IPL teams and led his country at 'A' and Under 19 level is fantastic.
"As a batter, Unmukt is dynamic and can change games quickly. He has spent much of his career at the top of the order, but we believe he has the flexibility to fill a variety of roles as we need."
Chand will enter the BBL 2021-22 on the back of a brilliant showing in Minor League Cricket in USA. He earned the Player of the Tournament award after his side Silicon Valley Strikers won the Minor League Cricket title last month.
He will travel to Australia later this month and be available for the entire duration of the T20 league.
(With PTI inputs)
