Jaydev Unadkat Shares Insights on Self-Dependence from County Cricket Experience

Indian bowler Jaydev Unadkat, known for his performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and playing for Hyderabad, recently opened up about his experiences playing county cricket in the UK. In a conversation with Times of India, Unadkat highlighted the differences in lifestyle and responsibilities faced by cricketers in the UK compared to those in India.

“When we are playing in India, we have liaison officers who take care of everything,” Unadkat said. “But while playing county cricket in the UK, while you are given a flat to stay in and a car to drive around, you have to take care of everything else on your own. From living on my own to making my breakfast and doing my laundry, staying there taught me to be self-dependent. It’s a different experience altogether and I enjoyed every bit of it.”

Unadkat emphasized that the unique conditions in the UK, such as different pitches and weather, offer valuable learning experiences for cricketers, helping them enhance their skills. He also noted the rich legacy and passionate supporters of county teams, which contribute to the overall experience.

“I like to cook and enjoy the process. While I can’t make the regular roti-sabji, I love to experiment in the kitchen and make some interesting dishes,” Unadkat added.

His remarks sparked a reaction from an English journalist Erika Morris, who sarcastically commented, “Grown ass man has to look after himself like… a grown ass man 🤷‍♀️😂.” This comment ignited a wave of backlash from Indian fans on social media, who defended the cultural differences and the privileges enjoyed by Indian players.

Unadkat is set to return to the UK for another stint in county cricket, and this time, he plans to bring his wife along to enjoy some sightseeing.

The bowler’s candid reflections shed light on the contrasting environments faced by cricketers in India and abroad, underscoring the importance of self-reliance and adaptability in different settings.