Ravanan looks forward to ‘homecoming’

Born in Tiruchy, like any other home-grown player, Ravanan dreamt of playing for his state. However, Tamil Nadu never had a team in the Indian domestic league and Ravanan’s career took off after Dempo’s coach spotted him and the defender didn’t return to play in the city for almost a decade. 

When the ISL started three years back, there was no Chennai team. It was only after Bengaluru pulled out in the 11th hour, Chennaiyin FC came into existence. “I was signed by Pune before a team from Chennai was drafted into the league. My contract got extended with Pune for three years as the management was happy with my performance. I would still love to play for a Chennai team but that has to be decided by the coach of the team on whether I would fit into their strategies,” Ravanan said. 

The 29-year-old led Churchill Brothers to the I-Legaue title and the Fed Cup title in 2013 and 2014 respectively, but a call to represent the national team always eluded him. “I was I was unhappy initially. I played for the Indian junior team for five years till 2010. I got a call many times but somehow I missed to make the cut. It was a dream to play in Indian colours but now I am focussing on making best use of the opportunities available. I am happy that ISL started now and not after I have retired. It has given me an opportunity to learn from football’s big names. Although, I am unhappy of not representing India, I am happy for ISL. The merger (of ISL and I-League) next year will also open doors for a lot of opportunities,” Ravanan added.