Unmukt Chand has been signed by the Melbourne Renegades for BBL|11, making him the first Indian cricketer to play in the Big Bash. Women cricketers from India have long competed in domestic leagues around the world, including the Women’s Big Bash League, while male cricketers from India, both international and domestic, are not permitted to participate in competitions abroad.
28-year-old Chand left Indian cricket earlier this year to play in the United States, allowing him to participate in the BBL and other domestic competitions.
While Chand never played for India at the senior level, he did play for India A and led their Under-19 side in the 2012 World Cup, scoring a century in the final against an Australian side that included Travis Head and Ashton Turner.
In the Indian Premier League, he has also represented Delhi, Mumbai, and Rajasthan.
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In the Indian Premier League, he has also represented Delhi, Mumbai, and Rajasthan.
“He brings a wealth of cricket experience,” coach David Saker said of Chand.
“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.”
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“I’m very excited, it’s great to be part of the Melbourne Renegades family,” Chand said, according to Melbourne Renegades’ official website.
“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.”
“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.”
Chand is based in the United States at the moment. After being awarded player of the tournament as his Silicon Valley Strikers won the Minor League Cricket title last month, he is expected to enter the event full of confidence.
Later this month, he will travel to Australia and will be available for the duration of the tournament.
“It’s great to have Unmukt on board and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do as a Renegade. He makes history as the first Indian player in the BBL, which is exciting for our club, our fans and the competition,” General Manager, James Rosengarten, said.
“We believe we’re assembling a well-rounded group, with a nice mix of experience and exciting, young talent. Our list is close to finalised, but we look forward to sharing some more exciting news with our fans in the run up to the season.”
