The year 2023 has dawned with an exhilarating fervor as India takes center stage, hosting the prestigious Cricket World Cup. For me, this tournament signifies a rekindling of my long-lost passion for the game, a flame that once burned bright till the historic 2011 World Cup. Back then, the entire nation rallied behind our cricketing legends, especially Sachin Tendulkar, whose dream of hoisting the World Cup trophy was realised through an unforgettable final, culminating in MS Dhoni’s iconic six. I vividly recall the wild celebrations that ensued, uniting the entire nation in joyous revelry, which i celebrated with my soon to be wife at NCR (Delhi), where street were jam packed with Indian flags and euphoric fans.

In the years that followed, my ardor for cricket waned amidst the whirlwind of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the setbacks of the 2015 World Cup, and the heartbreak of the 2019 semifinal loss to New Zealand. However, this World Cup holds a distinct significance for me. This time, I share the fervour with my new born little angel, with whom I’m spending countless hours reveling in the joys of fatherhood after my retirement at 40.

As a young boy, my dreams once soared towards representing the Indian cricket team. Yet, many aspiring talents like me often find their dreams thwarted by the lack of mentorship, family encouragement, or financial support. MS Dhoni’s journey, defying all those odds to become a cricketing legend, stands as a testament to resilience and determination. Now, as I invest my hopes in nurturing my little one’s future, I find a renewed purpose — to guide her towards embracing at least one sport in her life, perhaps even cricket.

Our connection with sports began even before her arrival, when she was just a bundle of joy in her mother’s womb. Together, we witnessed the greatness of Argentina and Messi, immersing ourselves in the rich history of 2022 football world cup. In those moments, I made her a promise: that she would emerge into this world with the spirit of Messi, ready to leave her mark on the world of sports.

In my life journey, I’ve come to understand the essence of focus and the irreplaceable value of family encouragement. Together, as we witness this World Cup unfold, I fervently hope that the passion for cricket, which unites millions of hearts across India, becomes a part of her soul too. Just like countless Indians, our ultimate goal is to witness the Indian cricket team triumph on the global stage.

India, The New Bharat, stands poised on the precipice of greatness in this World Cup. With ideal conditions and an ardent fanbase echoing their cheers across every stadium, the prospect of lifting the trophy once again feels palpable. As our nation rises as a global economic force and recently achieves success in hosting the G20 Global summit, let the hosting of the Cricket World Cup amplify India’s prowess as a sporting powerhouse on the global stage. With the heartbeat of millions resonating worldwide, echoing fervent cheers for ‘Bharat, Bharat!’ and participating country alike, may this World Cup inscribe its legacy in history. Through our beloved sport, may it continue to bridge hearts and souls across the globe, serving as a testament to the spirit that defines our true Indian hospitality.

#AskDushyant