Gagandeep Singh opens up on retirement, IPL and MS Dhoni

Former Punjab cricketer Gagandeep Singh took a trip down the memory lane of his cricketing days. The fast bowler made his presence felt at the PCS Stadium in Mohali, the very place where he played a lot of domestic cricket. He also opened up on how narrowly he missed the chance of playing for the Indian team and his thoughts on the former Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

The 37-year old played his last Ranji Trophy match against Odisha nine years ago in 2009. He retired from the sport in 2010 after understanding that his chances of playing for India were bleak. He played 66 first-class matches and also featured in the first edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) for Kings XI Punjab.

Dhoni was an exceptional player

Talking about the events leading to his retirement, Gagandeep stated that he worked extremely hard to earn a place in the Indian team but was unfortunate to be denied the precious opportunity. “I worked hard to find a place in the Indian team but the competition was tough. I was not destined to wear the India cap. I have no complaints against anyone,” Gagandeep was quoted as saying in an exclusive interview with Sportstar.

The fast bowler came tantalizingly close to play for Team India when he was selected for the Bangladesh tour in 2004 but couldn’t make it further. It is noteworthy that India’s legendary wicket-keeper batsman made his Test debut on that very tour. Gagandeep spoke highly of the Captain Cool and termed him as an exceptionally good player. “We all knew that Dhoni was an exceptional player and was bound to make a huge impact. The tour was my best chance to play for India but it remained a dream for me.”

IPL commands a special place

The Punjab cricketer also shared his experience of playing in the IPL. He mentioned that the league has become one of the most celebrated events at the international level. “It was a memorable experience and the IPL was a great platform for those wanting to learn. I am not surprised that the IPL has become so big now. It commands a special place in the international calendar. Everyone wants to play the IPL,” he remarked.

Gagandeep, who is currently on a family trip to India, migrated to Canada in 2016. He is involved in a program wherein he visits schools and teaches the basics of cricket to the students. “My main source of earning is as a property agent but cricket also keeps me busy. It is not the main game in Canada where winter sport is far more popular. But I am involved with a programme called Chance to Shine where I visit schools and teach the basics of the game.”

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