Is the starting leader card (Chosen Champion Unit) considered to be on the field, and does it enter ready when played?

Ruling: The Chosen Champion Unit in the Champion Zone is not considered in play and cannot trigger abilities. When played from the Champion Zone, it enters exhausted like any other unit unless otherwise stated.

Nuances:

• While in the Champion Zone, the card functions more like a face-up card in your hand than a card on the field
• The Chosen Champion Unit has the same restrictions as any other unit in the Main Deck