From Making First-Class Debut to Representing RBI: Sandeep Kunchikor’s Comeback Journey

Cricket gives everyone a second chance. It has always been a sport known for making comebacks. Be it Rohit Sharma, who became a mega-star after being promoted top of the order in 2013 to
Steve Smith and David Warner after the entire sandpaper fiasco, one can be assured that there is always a safe space when it comes to the sport followed by millions. One such story of comebacks is
highlighted in Sandeep Kunchikor‘s life. In this article, we will explore how Sandeep’s unwavering determination and passion for the sport helped him attain splendour.

Born and brought up in Mumbai, Sandeep Kunchikor was well aware of the challenges Mumbai’s pitches brought. For six years, MIG Cricket Club were blessed with the talent Sandeep Kunchikor displayed.
He was also a part of Parkophene Cricketers and National Cricket Club. He represented Sobo Supersonic team in the Mumbai Premier League (Season 2). He was a swashbuckling opener and the bowlers would
tremble just by his mere presence on the pitch. He also played in the Muslim United (B Division) which is a part of the Azad Maidan Cricket Club.

Sandeep also says his thanks to the MIG Cricket Club, “MIG Cricket Club has always supported me in my tough times. Without their support, it would have been a lot more difficult to get to the stage where I am. They kept their trust on me and I will be forever grateful for them.”

One of his most notable achievements came in the Police Invitation Shield Tournament. A mammoth 550 runs in just 5 matches which included 4 tons made Sandeep Kunchikor a force to be reckoned with.

Datta Mithbhavkar, who was the head of National Cricket Club also was an important part of helping Sandeep Kunchikor.

CORPORATE CRICKET:

When it comes to Corporate level of Cricket, he played in Times Shield A-Division and performed brilliantly for 12 years for Nirlon company.

Sandeep has not only restricted himself to the Indian borders but also has performed exceptionally well overseas. He played first-class cricket for Sri Lanka. He was also doing exceptionally well
for Kenya and came very close to representing the national team in the World Cup qualifiers.

Everyone needs a god-father if one wants to achieve a certain level of accolades. For Sandeep Kunchikor, it was Dr Shetty along with Rahul Sagar who played a crucial role in giving him the much needed platform. Dr Shetty being the President of MCA and also the owner of Payyade Sports Club, Sandeep’s cricketing journey was massively boosted thanks to Dr Shetty’s involvement.

“I am also thankful to Igbal Javed, owner of Muslim United Cricket Club. I am currently playing under them and also for RBI. But the way Javed ji has lent his support has been like a blessing. I am enjoying my time here and hope I contribute as much as possible. Also, special mention to Jwala Singh and Pushpendra sir. They have also been my constant companions in the form of mentors during my time in first-class cricket in Sri Lanka