Agni Dev Chopra Denies PSL Signing Rumors, Reaffirms USA Cricket Focus
Agni Dev Chopra, the cricketer and son of renowned Bollywood director Vidhu Vinod Chopra and journalist Anupama Chopra, has publicly denied widespread online rumors suggesting he has enrolled for the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This clarification comes after speculation emerged linking him to the league, following his decision to pursue a professional cricket career in the United States of America.
Official Statement on Social Media
In an Instagram story, Agni Dev Chopra addressed the misinformation directly, stating, "Fake and misleading reports are being circulated in my name regarding a tournament. I would like to clarify that I have not enrolled for the PSL. I remain fully focused on my cricket journey in the USA and my long-term career goals. I request everyone not to fall prey to misinformation." This statement aims to quell the rumors and redirect attention to his actual sporting endeavors.
Origin of the Rumors
The rumors gained traction after the Pakistan Cricket Board released a list of 879 players registered for the PSL. On this list, player number 822 is named "Agni Chopra," attributed to the USA and described as a left-handed batter and right-arm spinner. Notably, Agni Dev Chopra is indeed a left-handed batter who occasionally bowls right-arm off-spin, which fueled the speculation. However, he has now categorically denied any involvement with the PSL registration.
Agni Dev Chopra's Cricket Journey
Agni Dev Chopra has a notable background in cricket, having played at under-age levels in Mumbai. He led the Mumbai Under-19 team and was the leading run-getter for Mumbai in the 2019-20 CK Nayudu Trophy, amassing 760 runs, including a double century. Despite this success, he did not break into the senior Ranji Trophy team. In July 2023, he made a strategic move to Mizoram to advance his career, participating in trials at the National Cricket Academy.
In an interview with the Indian Express in February 2024, Chopra explained, "In July, Mizoram had trials at the National Cricket Academy. I went for the trial and I was lucky enough to be picked. It was tough to leave my city, but this was the best opportunity to play in List A and first-class cricket." At that time, he was in exceptional form in the Plate Group for Mizoram, scoring 767 runs in four matches with an average of 95.87, including five centuries in four games.
Current Focus and Future Plans
With the rumors now debunked, Agni Dev Chopra remains dedicated to his cricket career in the United States. His journey reflects a commitment to overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities, as seen in his transition from Mumbai to Mizoram and now to the USA. This incident highlights the prevalence of misinformation in sports media and the importance of verifying sources before spreading unconfirmed reports.
As he continues to build his career abroad, fans and followers are encouraged to support his genuine efforts and disregard baseless claims about his participation in leagues like the PSL.
