Bhubaneswar, May 16 (Agency) The journey that began in 2005 in the faraway city of Quetta in Pakistan, will finally come to an end in Kolkata on June 6, after an eventful 19 years.Sunil Chhetri, the conquering hero of Indian football’s many folklores, has decided to gently putaside his National Team jersey after playing against Kuwait in the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers atthe Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. “It’s been a month. It started with a feeling and an instinct that it was time to call it a day. And it grew in me slowly and steadily every day. Finally, I reached this decision. And I think I made the right decision. This (match against Kuwait on June 6, 2024) is one of the biggest games of my career. It is hugely important for the National Team. So, hopefully, we will do well against Kuwait and should be there for the (World Cup Qualifiers) third round,” Chhetri said. “We got to win at home to give us a great chance of qualifying for the third round, which we haven’t done yet. And then rub our shoulders with the best in Asia. So, for the country’s sake first, yes. And once we do that, it will be good to think back and remember that my last game was an important one. And I could contribute to our nation being in the third round of the World Cup Qualifiers,” the National Team captain said.
“I think I’m highly, highly fortunate and privileged to be a part of the national team for 19 years. It’s outstanding to be able to participate and play for the country. This is something no one can take away from me. I’m grateful to everyone who has contributed. And I’m not trying to sound cliche, I genuinely mean it. That’s the feeling that I get,” Chhetri said.“I believe my entire family is proud of whatever I have accomplished. I’ve done this for 19 years. They are immensely happy. I think it’s one of those things that everyone knew was coming. But when I told them, they were a little bit shocked but understood that I’m fighting my own battles inside. You don’t wish to stop playing for the country. But one day you have to and you will be fine,” he added.