With the ICC U-19 World Cup beginning on Friday in South Africa, India would try for the record fifth title, this time under the leadership of Priyam Garg. Everyone wishes them to do well in the tournament. Former India U-19 captain Unmukt Chand, who led the side to World Cup triumph in 2012, has also wished the youngsters.

“The Under-19 World Cup is the pinnacle of age-group cricket and it is significant, perhaps more than playing for the senior team, for an aspiring cricketer. You are the chosen few and I am sure the best 15 in the country,” Unmukt Chand wrote for the Indian Express.

“It’s an early exposure so do not let it take control over you. Be aware, there would be distractions. The smarter you are, the healthier your choices would be. It’s an age where you want to try out new things. Be careful of your choices. If cricket is the priority, then you would end up taking the right decisions,” he added.

Read here: Harbhajan Singh Has a Shocking News Related to MS Dhoni

While the U-19 World Cup could be the dreams come true for some of the players, who went on to be successful at the international level, there are a few who could not make it big in the later stage. Unmukt Chand belongs to the latter category, where he could not make it to the international team, despite being a quality player. He is even struggling to be a part of the state team as well right now. But his message to the youngsters is to ‘keep grinding’ always.

“The life ahead is going to be a puzzle. Be geared up for it. You will soon enter into the Men’s world’. Some might play for the country, some won’t. But keep grinding. Life can surprise you in many ways you can’t even imagine,” Unmukt Chand further wrote.