কে আকাশ চোপড়া
Aakash Chopra is a former Indian cricketer, who is today recognized as one of the most prestigious commentators and cricketing analysts. Hailing from Agra in Uttar Pradesh, he pursued his passion for cricket with determination and steadily began building up a reputation as a prominent right-handed opening batsman.
Early Life and Cricket Career
Chopra was born on September 19, 1977. His journey towards professional cricket started at an early age when he joined Delhi’s Sonnet Club. He made his first-class debut playing for Delhi in the 1997-98 Ranji Trophy season. During this time, he established himself firmly as a highly skilled opener exhibiting solid technical batting skills that earned him remarkable performances.
In 2003, owing to his prolific performance in domestic cricket, Chopra was given an opportunity to play for India against New Zealand in Mohali where he had a steady start to his international career. He went on to represent India in several other series, including touring along with the Indian team to Australia and Pakistan.
Weaning Off Active Cricket
After representing India in 10 Test matches in which he scored over 400 runs, Chopra’s form fell off considerably leading to him being dropped from the national squad. Despite appearing sporadically in IPL stint during its early years playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kings XI Punjab (KXIP), he couldn’t continue his initial success as a player.
Despite being unable to house more matches under his stats column, his contribution to Indian cricket shouldn’t be underestimated. He was considered instrumental within some successful campaigns such as Delhi’s victorious run in the Ranji trophy or Kolkata Knight Rider’s consistent good performance during their initial years.
Full Video in Youtube
Transition into Commentator
As competition on field soared and opportunities dwindled for him to stage a comeback into the Indian team, he took a step back from professional cricket around 2015. But transitioned his on-field knowledge and passion for the game towards commentary and broadcast. His insightful analysis during matches quickly gained traction among fans giving him a spot as one of the most respected faces in cricket commentary.
Aakash Chopra: The Author
With plenty to share about his experiences playing cricket at different levels, Aakash has written three books – “Beyond the Blues”, “Out of the Blue” and “The Insider”. They aptly give an insider perspective on various aspects regarding journey of promising players diverging from junior level clubs to national dressing rooms, challenges confronting them, politics within top-tier teams and behind-the-scenes happenings.
His literary talents didn’t go unnoticed with both ‘Beyond the Blues’ being shortlisted for Cricket Society’s Book of the year award subsequently leading him to win this prestigious recognition when his third book ‘The Insider’ emerged victorious in 2016.
Influence Today
Chopra dwells predominantly as a full-time commentator registered with Star India – where he is well recognized for providing highly articulate analysis in English and Hindi. He never fades away from shedding light upon tactical insights making it comprehendible for common viewers yet provoking for enthusiasts which helped Star Sports gain more followers throughout their coverage.
Currently, Chopra also utilizes digital platforms like YouTube and Twitter where he frequently interacts with fans while uploading videos comprising match reviews, analysis, player skill display summary etc. Through his work as an analyst, author and social media influencer, Aakash Chopra continues to inspire budding cricketers while enriching our cozy spectacles filled with excitement called Cricket.
