Fox in the box

When India’s football team qualified for the Asia Cup for the first time in 25 years, it marked a career high for the captain, Bhaichung Bhutia. We ask him about success, heroes and his lucky number 15.

More: What has been your most treasured sporting moment yet?

Bhaichung: Playing in the Goal 4 Africa match alongside such players as Clarence Seedorf and Michael Ballack.

M: What do you think is your greatest achievement?
B: Winning the AFC Challenge Cup in August. It was an incredible feeling.

M: Your footballing hero as a kid?
B: Maradona, without doubt.

M: Were you always a striker?
B: No. I only started playing as a striker when I joined the national squad.

M: What do you do when you’re not playing?
B: Nothing much. I watch TV, hang out with my friends and my wife.

M: Tell me a little-known fact about you.
B: I can’t think of anything apart from the fact that my lucky number’s 15. Don’t ask me why because I don’t know. Any multiple of three really.

M: So, what now?
B: I have my club commitments (with Mohun Bagan). And then we’ll start preparing for the Asia Cup.