Indian football captain Baichung Bhutia talks about his life, career and winning 100 caps for the country
Think of Indian football and there is only one name that springs to mind in recent memory — Baichung Bhutia. And why not? After all, for 14 years he has been the mainstay of the Indian team, seeing ups and downs in his professional career, having his share of rows with the All India Football Federation and winning trophies both at club and international level. In a nutshell, Bhutia has been there and done that. Yet, just a week after becoming the first Indian footballer to play his 100th game for the country, during the Nehru Cup, Bhutia says he wouldn’t say he was content with what he has achieved. He talks about his sporting sojourn and what has made him India’s most capped player of all time.
When you debuted on the national team 14 years ago, did it ever cross your mind that you would play 100 matches for India?
No, it didn’t. When you are starting out, you never think of milestones. Like any youngster who aspires to be a sportsman, it’s a dream to play for your country and I was no different. When I made my debut, I just wanted to go out and give my best. The thought of 100 caps never crossed my mind. You think about these milestones when you are established — and even then it’s not necessary that they come true.
How would describe your journey from the first cap to the 100th?
It’s a cliched answer, but yes, it has been a roller-coaster ride. But I am extremely proud to have reached a century of caps, and would like to thank all those who have supported me in my career. All my teammates who were there with me each time I scored or made a contribution. Without their effort, it just wouldn’t have been possible.
You’ve been part of Indian football for more than a decade now. How do you think the sport has evolved? How have you adapted to the changes?
I have been part of the I-League for the past 12 years now, with various clubs like JCT Mills, Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. The league definitely has evolved in terms of talent, and there are a lot of good players plying their trade now. But in terms of infrastructure and professionalism, a lot needs to be done. Sometimes I wonder if, on that level, anything has changed or not since I made my debut. Personally speaking, with age every player needs to adapt and work hard on his fitness levels. Being a striker, you do lose a yard of pace as you grow older, but the experience does make you a better player.
There have been a few controversies in your career. The most recent was when Mohun Bagan questioned your commitment to the sport after you participated in a reality TV show. How do you deal with them?
If you know that you are not in the wrong, such things don’t bother me. But yes, I was upset when my commitment to the sport was questioned. I have always played with my heart each time I have stepped on the field, be it for India or East Bengal or Mohun Bagan. I am glad, though, that I am back at East Bengal now, and want to see out my career here only.
How do you cope with India’s often dismal performance at the international level, especially at World Cup qualifiers?
It’s disappointing, but we have always worked hard. And it’s not as if my career for India has been full of disappointments. I have won quite a few trophies. The Nehru Cup, two years ago, was a memorable win. Similarly, we have been SAFF champions thrice. Of course, I would have loved to win more often for the country. But we have to accept the fact that several steps need to be taken before we take strides at the international level.
And what are these steps that you talk about?
Planning is the first step. We need to have a vision and have to start working on it at various levels. There is a need for better infrastructure, training facilities and coaches. I know it’s not an easy job. Still, as a country we have to make that effort if we want the sport to grow. Today, every child knows about the European clubs, but would not be able to name five clubs in the I-league! We need to change that mindset, and for that we need good teams, good management and, above all, people need to believe in Indian football’s prospects.
Are there any regrets in your career so far? What does the future hold?
No regrets, as I don’t like to think about the past. As for the future, I would like to continue playing at the club as well as at the international level so long as I enjoy the game. I am in good shape, physically and mentally, and hopefully can continue to contribute to Indian football.
