Aakash Chopra, a renowned cricketer from India, made his mark as an opener in the classical mould, possessing both the technique and temperament perfectly suited for occupying the crease and seeing off the shine of the leather. His attributes proved to be a valuable asset for both him and the Indian cricket team when they were desperately searching for a pair of good openers.
Having suffered a right-knee injury that had laid him low at the end of the 2002-03 season, Chopra made a strong comeback in the following season during the home series against New Zealand. Displaying a sound batting performance, he earned himself a place in the Indian team that toured Australia. His partnership with his Delhi team-mate Virender Sehwag added to his reputation as he provided solid starts in the Test matches. Although he failed to surpass the 50-run mark in the four Tests against Australia, his ability to spend valuable time at the crease and confidently face the new ball helped in building a solid foundation for India’s formidable middle order batsmen. Additionally, Chopra emerged as an exceptional close-in fielder, drawing comparisons with the legendary Eknath Solkar.
However, the emergence of Yuvraj Singh as a match-turning batsman during the tour of Pakistan in 2004 relegated Chopra to the status of a squad player. After an unimpressive performance in the home series against Australia in the same year, he was dropped from the team. Despite the setback, Chopra displayed his skills once again when he was selected to open for India A in the unofficial Tests against South Africa after a three-year hiatus. In the only completed match against South Africa A, he showcased his prowess by scoring an unbeaten double century.
The 2007-2008 season proved to be an extremely prosperous one for Chopra. He scored an impressive 783 runs in Delhi’s title-winning Ranji Trophy campaign, displaying his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. In the one-day format, he was even more prolific, amassing 332 runs at a staggering average of 332.00, including three centuries at a strike rate above 100. He continued his stellar form in the Duleep Trophy, where he scored 310 runs, contributing significantly to North’s victory.
Impressed by his consistent performances, the Kolkata Knight Riders signed Chopra for the lucrative Indian Premier League, further cementing his status as a competent opener.
Aakash Chopra’s journey in cricket is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and unwavering focus on his craft. As an opener, he displayed great technique, patience, and the ability to lay a solid foundation for the team. His exceptional fielding skills further added to his value as a player. Despite facing ups and downs throughout his career, Chopra’s contributions to Indian cricket will always be remembered fondly.
Aakash Chopra not only left an indelible mark on the cricketing fraternity but also served as an inspiration for aspiring young cricketers to never give up on their dreams and to always strive for excellence.
