Ragav Gupta, the 23-year-old midfielder of Rajasthan United FC is the face of Jammu in the ongoing Hero I-League. Here is an insight into his game and way forward.
Welcome to this interview, Ragav. How is life in the Hero I League?
“Thank you. It’s a pleasure. Hero I League is back in full swing after covid, thanks to Aiff and all concerned stakeholders. The home-and-away system is the heart of the tournament and the tournament getting back to it makes it even more interesting for me.”
Looking back at the season so far, where do you see yourself?
“I see myself at one of the highest positions in my career so far, to be honest. I’m in a good frame of mind, the team is doing well so am I. It’s a lovely combination of freedom and responsibilities which I am enjoying a lot. We have had a good pre-season in the Durand cup and Baji Rout and I’m looking forward to continuing the good form.”
Very few teams have an Indian Coach, you are fortunate to get one. How does Pushpender Kundu push you as a coach?
“Oh!! He is an absolute father figure. I am fortunate to get this season with him, he guides me and micromanages my game a lot. He helps me analyze and get better at every training session.”
Let’s come to your game Ragav, take us through your scintillating long ranger in the baji rout cup final.
“That day I had a strong feeling from the morning that I would score. So I was searching for opportunities. It came in the form of the long ranger as I was building up from the back when I got the ball in my zone and boom.”
Very few Indian forwards are seen taking such brave shots and scoring goals. Do you see this as a shift in mentality in the younger generation?
“I like to adapt to responsibilities given to me and it has varied from time to time under different coaches. Talking of mentality shift, id say, the younger generation is braver and we think of scoring. The thought is clear to go and score.”
What are your aspirations ahead?
“Not just to play for the country but make it big. I feel I have a lot to deliver to my country.”
IFTWC sincerely wishes Ragav all the best for the ongoing season and also for the future to come.
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