Suchith says Uttarakhand must look to emulate J&K in Ranji Trophy

FILE PHOTO: J. Suchith finished as Uttarakhand’s second-highest run-scorer (454 runs) and second-highest wicket-taker (26). | Photo Credit: The Hindu Archives

While Jammu & Kashmir’s run to the Ranji Trophy title was understandably the story of the 2025-26 domestic season, one other team’s journey was equally fascinating.

Uttarakhand, which joined the Indian domestic cricket circuit in 2018, made its maiden semifinal appearance last year. One player who was key to that run was all-rounder J. Suchith, who finished as the team’s second-highest run-scorer (454 runs) and second-highest wicket-taker (26).

“My role has been clear from the very beginning. As a professional, it’s not only about performing but also helping the local boys become better cricketers. Also, tactically, being there when the captain needs me, considering my experience,” Suchith explained during a chat here on Friday.

“I play the number six role and bat with the tail whenever possible. In the Ranji Trophy, when the team goes all the way, the lower-order runs count the most. I think we have been able to do that last season really well.”

Since the 2021-22 season, Uttarakhand has made the knockouts thrice in five years, and Suchith felt J&K’s success has given his team’s players hope that they too can excel at higher levels.

“You saw someone like Auqib Nabi play for India. If someone from Uttarakhand takes 50-60 wickets, he will be recognised too. He will go on to play for the country, which wasn’t the case a couple of years ago. People might get a big IPL contract also. We are not a small team anymore and are putting in a lot of big performances,” he added.

On what keeps him motivated, the 32-year-old former Karnataka player felt he probably didn’t do justice to his talent in his home state and now wants to prove that he can still operate at a high level.

“Uttarakhand has allowed me to make sure that I fulfil that dream in whatever way it is. I think it’s about being content with the preparation I have done so far in my cricketing journey and making sure I haven’t left any stone unturned. When I retire, I probably shouldn’t have any regrets,” remarked Suchith.