Exclusive: Utkarsh Tripathi Analyzes World Cup Heartbreak, Kohli's Impact & Predicts India vs England

From Ayodhya to YouTube stardom, Utkarsh Tripathi's journey is one of passion, dedication, and carving his path. This 20-year-old juggles college studies with writing and managing his popular cricket channel 'Cric Point,' earning the nickname 'Chota Aakash Chopra.' In this exclusive conversation, he opens up about his love for cricket, the unique perspective he brings to the game, and the challenges he's faced in balancing content creation with his studies.

Tell us about your journey as a cricket content creator. How did you get started making videos, and what inspired you to pursue this passion?

My journey as a cricket content creator has been quite a ride. It all started when my mom got a new Android phone and we shifted from my hometown to the city. At that time, in 2018-19, everybody was becoming a creator, so I started a YouTube channel in which I used to teach the subjects of my class when I was in 8th-9th grade. Then, my channel got terminated for some reason. I was devastated, to be honest, but then I gathered the courage and created 'Cric Point' to start afresh because cricket had always been my passion.

You're often called 'Chota Aakash Chopra' by your fans. How do you feel about this comparison, and does it put any pressure on you?

I take it as the biggest compliment of my content creation career.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a content creator? How have you overcome them?

Actually, it's quite funny – I mean, when we shifted to the city, it was just a one-room rental. So, I had to make videos in the bathroom, and that too on my mother's phone, to avoid outside noise. Also, since I was in school at that time, I would go to school during the day, do my homework and all, and then make videos at night.

Who are your biggest inspirations in the world of cricket and content creation?

My biggest inspirations are MS Dhoni and King Kohli, and obviously, Aakash Chopra sir. In content creation, I don't have just one favourite creator; there are so many I admire, so I can't just name one.

Did you grow up having dreams of being a cricketer?

Obviously, my first incomplete dream.

The Cricket World Cup loss still hurts; what do you think went wrong?

I think the biggest difference was the body language between that day. The Aussies were there to win; their fielding efforts were unbelievable. The pitch also played a factor. They put us under pressure and then never let us overcome that, and obviously, the quality knock of Travis Head.

As a cricket content creator, sometimes you might have a strong point for a cricketer. Does that invite trolling? How do you handle it?

Earlier, I used to be very conscious about my opinion, but recently I realized that if I am not honest with my opinion, that's injustice to me and even more to my audience. So now, I clearly express myself, and I don't think that invites trolling because I believe in providing logical opinions. People may agree or disagree with my opinion, but I don't see it as trolling. I love my fans.

Who are some of your favourite young cricketers to watch? What do you see in their potential?

Yashasvi Jaiswal, I really like him. Also, Arshin Kulkarni can be groomed as the next all-rounder.

Best Indian captain according to you, and why?

MS Dhoni, he is the best. No other reason.

What are some of the biggest cricketing controversies you've seen in your time as a fan and analyst?

Virat Kohli vs Naveen-ul-Haq and Gautam Gambhir. It was fun to watch!

Your prediction for the ongoing India vs England Test series?

England is a tough opponent, no doubt they can challenge us. But India will win the series.

How has the cricket content creation landscape changed since you started making videos?

I would say, the quality of content, also an increase in competition, and I feel I love how viewers have become more aware and critical of what we are serving to them. So, you have to be honest, responsible, and truthful to your audience, and I love that.

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Who are the top three cricketers right now according to you?

Virat Kohli, Heinrich Klaasen, Jasprit Bumrah.

What are some of the latest trends in cricket content creation?

People love IPL, so any genuine content around that gets recognition. News, analysis, and some funny reviews are trending. I love analysis, and I believe people also started to love this, and more and more creators now know they can make a career out of it."

Quick rapid fire, one word that comes to your mind when I say the following: 

Cricket: Love

Virat Kohli: GOAT

Rohit Sharma: The leader

Dhoni: Legend

Best Test team: Currently, India

Best ODI Team: India

Best T20 Team: Tough one, I guess England

T20 World Cup 2024 winner: I wish, India

GOAT in Cricket: Kohli

Fans of Cric Point: Family 

What are your tips for aspiring cricket content creators?

First of all, never lose your love for Cricket. Be honest, and keep doing the hard work, it's all about consistency, trust me.