Iain Hume Reflects on Electrifying ISL Journey with Kerala Blasters, Atletico de Kolkata

Canadian footballer Iain Hume recounts his memorable stint in the Indian Super League with Kerala Blasters FC, Atletico de Kolkata, and FC Pune City, highlighting the passionate football culture in Kerala and Kolkata. Hume's tenure in India featured significant achievements and unforgettable atmospheres cherished by fans and players alike.

Iain Hume, a celebrated figure in the Indian Super League (ISL), described his tenure with Kerala and Kolkata as an unparalleled experience, underlined by the unique atmosphere he encountered there. The Canadian international, in the twilight of his career, graced the fields for Kerala Blasters FC (KBFC), Atletico de Kolkata (ATK), and FC Pune City (FCPC), amassing 69 appearances and netting 29 goals.

Hume first joined the league in its inaugural 2014 season with Kerala Blasters FC. His debut season was marked by 13 games, four goals, and two assists. "The first few years were like a carnival, every game felt like a spectacle," Hume reminisced in an exclusive interview with Footy Prime, as quoted by ISL. "We had the 10-second countdown, fireworks for every goal, and big flares when we walked out. It was like coming out as Stone Cold," he added.

In a country dominated by cricket, football has found unwavering support, especially in Kerala and Kolkata. Hume observed this fervor firsthand, ranking football second only to cricket in India. "Playing in Kolkata, especially, was incredible; it's home to the second-oldest derby in world football," Hume noted. He shared that some games boasted crowds of up to 170,000, reflecting the intense local rivalry.

Hume's peak season came in 2015 with Atletico de Kolkata, scoring 10 goals and providing four assists, winning the ISL Cup in 2016. Reflecting on his less popular yet cherished stint with FC Pune City, Hume noted the city's tech-focused culture. Despite smaller crowds, the local passion for football was unmistakable. "Kerala and Kolkata are just football nuts," he remarked.

Kolkata, in particular, holds a special place for Hume, owing to his achievements and the ISL Cup victory with Atletico de Kolkata. He also fondly recalled his debut season with the Blasters, leading the team to the final. "We had a great squad devoid of egos and fought for each other," he emphasized. Hume recounted scoring within the first 10 minutes in a sea of yellow during a semi-final, describing the overwhelming support from Kerala Blasters FC fans.

In conclusion, Hume noted the immense love and passion football fans in India have for the game and their teams.

(With inputs from agencies.)