Robin Uthappa Explains Why He Switched From Playing Hockey To Cricket

Robin Uthappa is a well-known Indian cricketer, yet many people are unaware that cricket was not his first sport. Changing sports is complex, and getting skilled in the new mark is even more difficult, but Robin Uthappa has proven that no obstacle is too difficult for him. Robin Uthappa gained widespread recognition in 2005 when he scored 66 runs for India B versus India A in the Challenger Trophy. The following year, in the same tournament, Uthappa scored a match-winning 93-ball 100 against the squad that had launched him to big league success. He previously played for the Indian U19 national team, which won the Asian Cup. 

Why did Robin Uthappa choose cricket as his sports career?

One of the most attractive athletes is Indian batsman Robin Uthappa of the Chennai Super Kings. Everyone stops what they are doing to watch him bat, all thanks to his good looks and fantastic batting. But did you know that he also played hockey for the Karnataka team? Uthappa came from a  strong hockey family background. He was able to join the state hockey team since his father was an international hockey umpire, but he soon discovered that his path would be simple on his hockey sports journey. He then switched to cricket to engage in something challenging and to become a self-made sports sensation. 

Uthappa stated that if he had succeeded in hockey, people would have assumed it was due to his father's talent rather than his own. Therefore, he selected cricket as his sport, and the rest is history.

Robin Uthappa's IPL journey

In 2008, Robin Uthappa IPL played for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, where he had a somewhat successful debut season. In January 2009, he was traded to Royal Challengers Bangalore for Zaheer Khan. He had a poor IPL season for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2009.

In a 2010 Indian Premier League game against Kings XI Punjab, he hit a 21-ball-51, the second-fastest fifty in the league, and was vital in the Royal Challengers' triumph. In IPL 5, although his team did not perform well, cricket admirers received his commission well. IPL 2021 Robin Uthappa Team was moved to the Chennai Super Kings in January 2021 and performed well.

Robin Uthappa International career

Uthappa was included in MS Dhoni's young Indian team for the 2007 T20 World Cup. Robin batted for 113 runs in six innings, including a half-century against Pakistan. 

In the group stage encounter against Pakistan, he demonstrated his class. The star batsman went all guns blazing, smashing 50 runs off 39 balls, including four fours and two sixes. 

Robin Uthappa was an essential part of India's setup until his form deteriorated following the Asia Cup 2008. Virat Kohli took over his position as Uthappa faded his performance. He made brief appearances in the side but could not cement his spot in any of the forms. Robin Uthappa’s ODI's last performance was seen in 2015 against Zimbabwe.

Robin Uthappa has made essential contributions to the sport during his ten-year career. He has played an important role for the Indian squad in many game formats, including the famous Indian Premier League. Uthappa's ability to score runs swiftly and inventive strokeplay has made him a significant addition to every team he has played. His drive and enthusiasm for cricket continue to inspire young players, cementing his place as a legendary figure in Indian cricket.

FAQ's
What was Robin Uthappa's debut match in T20?
Robin Uthappa's debut match in T20 was against Scotland on 13 September 2007.
How old is Robin Uthappa's daughter?
Robin Uthappa's daughter is one year old. Her name is Trinity.