Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh has expressed concerns over the player management of the current team following the struggles of senior players during the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India suffered a 1-3 series defeat against Australia, their first such defeat in a decade, with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma not performing at your best.
Virat Kohli’s struggle with technique.
Kohli, despite starting the series on a high note with an unbeaten century in Perth, managed just 90 runs in the remaining eight innings. His old weakness outside the off-stump was exploited by the Australian pacers. Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Yograj criticized the team management for not intervening and advising Kohli to avoid playing the cover drive, a shot that led to his dismissal repeatedly.
“Someone should have guided him saying, ‘Virat, don’t play this shot on these pitches.’ The ball bounces and carries more on Australian courts and adjustments need to be made.” Yograj told IANS, emphasizing the need for technical feedback and corrective measures.
Yograj highlights the need for human management over coaching
Yograj highlighted the distinction between traditional training and effective man management, particularly for players of the caliber of Kohli and Rohit. “When you play for India at this level, you don’t need the typical training. What you need is someone who understands you and manages you.” said. He added that not even the best players are immune to technical glitches or mental blocks, so proper guidance is essential.
Yograj stressed that the role of the management is to encourage the players when they are struggling. “All players go through a bad streak. What they need is someone to calm them down and say, ‘Don’t worry, you’re a great player.’ This phase will pass.’ “It’s about boosting morale and providing specific technical advice where necessary.” he commented.
Call for stronger leadership
Reflecting on the configuration of Indian training in Gautama GambhirYograj acknowledged Gambhir’s brilliance as a cricketer and leader. However, he emphasized the need to balance constructive criticism with supportive management, especially for younger players.
“The management must help the players understand the nuances of the game, provide them with guidance and instill confidence in them. For example, telling players like Rohit or Kohli that this happens to everyone can be a big help in regaining their self-confidence.” Yograj suggested.
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The 66-year-old concluded by reiterating the importance of empathetic and proactive management. “When players are struggling, management can act like a magic wand, lifting them up and helping them regain their form. “This balance between technical training and mental support is what the Indian team needs to succeed at the highest level.” He added more.
Chandigarh: Yograj Singh, former Indian cricketer, says, “A big question arises when it comes to coaching. When you play for India, you should not need coaching if you are a good player. You represent India and not only management is needed Sometimes, the mentality of a player… pic.twitter.com/gfjSf3BFoV
– IANS (@ians_india) January 5, 2025