Ranji Trophy: Kunal Chandela tons help Delhi seize control
Gautam Gambhir and Kunal Chandela shared a 232-run partnership to put Delhi in a commanding position on Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy semi-final against Bengal.
The unheralded Kunal Chandela showed maturity beyond years as his ton took Delhi to a commanding 271 for three against Bengal on the second day of the Ranji Trophy semi-final, on Monday.
Kunal Chandela is a refreshing change of what has been the template of a Delhi cricketer. “I have benefited a lot from University cricket. I have heard how past greats of Delhi cricket have emerged from University cricket. My selection in Delhi Ranji Trophy has been on basis of back to back Vizzy Trophy triple tons. You learn to play day’s game from Vizzy Trophy,” 23-year-old Chandela said after the match.
“I had my exams on 20th but I had to skip it. I take time out to study and attend lectures when I get time,” he said.
He believes time spent in boarding school in Dehradun has helped him become more self-reliant.
“I studied my 9th and 10th standard at Indian Public School where Rishabh Pant was my junior in boarding school. My childhood coach has been Manoj Rawat,” the son of an electrical contractor said.
He thanked Gautam Gambhir for his constant support. “Gautam bhaiyya told me to play the way I know the best. He told me to remain free while batting. When I tried a sweep shot, he told that since I am hitting well straight, I don’t need to play across,” he said.
His temperament to bat for long hours has come for praise but wouldn’t it hamper his chances to get an IPL team.
“I don’t play cricket with an intention of being picked for an IPL team. You dream to play for India and if you do well, you can also play IPL,” the confident Chandela signed off.
Chandela hit four boundaries in an Amit over as the pressure was let loose. Someone like Shami was also unable to bowl maiden overs.
So guys, if you really like the performance by this talented Batsman then do comment in the below section.