Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh After the struggles of the senior players during the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, it has raised concerns about the player management of the current team. India suffered their first such defeat in a decade with a 1-3 series defeat against Australia Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma unable to perform at his best.
Virat Kohli’s struggle with technique
Kohli started the series on a high note with an unbeaten century in Perth, but managed just 90 runs in the remaining eight overs. His prolonged 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 advised Kohli to avoid playing the cover drive, which has led to his dismissal many times.
“Someone should have guided him, ‘Virat, don’t play this shot on these pitches.’ “The ball bounces and carries more on Australian tracks and needs to be adjusted.” Yograj told IANS, stressing the need for technical feedback and corrective measures.
Yograj emphasizes the need for people management rather than coaching
Yograj highlighted the difference between traditional coaching and effective people management, especially for players of Kohli and Rohit’s stature. “When you play at this level in India, you don’t need typical coaching. You need someone who understands and controls you” he said. He added that even the greatest players are not immune to technical glitches or mental blocks, which makes proper management essential.
Yograj emphasized that the management’s role is to uplift the players when they are struggling. “Every player goes through a difficult situation. All you have to do is calm them down and say, “Don’t worry, you’re a great player.” This phase will pass.’ It’s about raising morale and providing targeted technical advice when needed.” noted.
Call for stronger leadership
Depicting the setup of the Indian exercise below Gautam GambhirYograj acknowledged Gambhir’s brilliance as a cricketer and leader. However, he stressed the importance of balancing constructive criticism with supportive management, especially for younger players.
“Management should help the players understand the nuances of the game, give guidance and instill confidence. For example, telling players like Rohit or Kohli that it happens to everyone can go a long way in restoring their confidence. suggested Yograj.
Also READ: ‘It takes a lot of character’ – AB de Villiers gives a tip for tackling Virat Kohli
The 66-year-old concluded by reiterating the importance of an empathetic and proactive management approach. “When players are struggling, management can act like a magic wand, lift them up and help them get back into shape. This balance between technical training and mental support is necessary for the Indian team to succeed at the highest level.” he further added.
Chandigarh: Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh says, “There is a big question when it comes to coaching. When you play for India, if you are a good player, you shouldn’t need coaching. You are representing India and you just need the mindset of a player sometimes. pic.twitter.com/gfjSf3BFoV
— IANS (@ians_india) January 5, 2025
