Rishabh Pant’s getting out was called ‘stupid’ by Sunil Gavaskar, while Sam Konstas made an exciting debut in Test cricket. It seems the game of cricket has speeded up a lot, almost like it’s on steroids! We love watching young players hit the ball bravely and make creative shots, but sometimes their choices can be disappointing when we consider the risks involved. Also, the way players talk these days can be awkward, especially in Test matches.
Modern cricketers often use certain buzzwords, like “expressing themselves” or “playing with intent,” and I really dislike when they say, “I’m just enjoying myself.” These phrases can sound rehearsed, like what you’d hear from a call center. They might fit better in shorter games like T20s but not in a long, serious Test match that lasts five days.
The idea of “enjoying myself” confuses me. Cricket is a team sport where eleven players work together, not just one person trying to have fun. If a player acts like a lone hero, like a soldier in battle doing his own thing, it can be a disaster. In cricket, the team comes first, and players come second. Individual achievements should not overshadow the team’s goals. For example, what good is a hundred runs if it means the team loses because it slowed down the run rate?
Moreover, representing India in cricket is a big honor and comes with serious responsibility. Wearing the India cap is not just about having fun; it’s about being part of the team. When players talk about “expressing themselves”, it often means they will play in the way they are comfortable, which is fine in certain situations but can be wrong when they need to play according to the match conditions. It’s not wise to take risky shots just because one likes to play that way.
Sometimes, players may use phrases like “enjoying myself” without really thinking about what they mean, or maybe it’s just a way to handle pressure and keep calm. Now, let’s talk about “intent.” It’s a fancy word that says players want to take charge and put pressure on the bowlers. While that may work in T20 cricket, in Test matches, it often leads to quick dismissals. Players must adapt their play style based on the match situation.
When players like Pant take the wrong shots at the wrong time, it can hurt the team. On the other hand, players like Sundar show discipline and determination, doing what’s right for the match. It’s not true that players don’t care; sometimes they just prefer to go all out instead of playing carefully.
In T20 cricket, players need to swing the bat freely; it’s essential. But in Test matches, they need to adjust their play style, because what works in one format can be counterproductive in another.
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