The Inner Game of Indian Cricket - The game behind the game
Subash CV, MCC
Executive Leadership Coach I ICF Coaching Education & Certification I Mentor Coach I Healer I Business Head - Auto Finance I Product & Program Head - ICICI Bank (CVL)
Our cricket is a reflection of our collective consciousness
Indian cricket mirrors our collective consciousness, revealing both its triumphs and troubles.
Why Does This Matter?
The way we do one thing is the way we do everything!
The way we approach one thing reflects how we approach everything.
As the Master says, “Life is a game. Play it!” But the game behind the game of cricket is a different story — one filled with intrigue, politics, and questionable motives.
It’s time to reflect and reclaim the spirit of the sport we all love.
Leadership: The Buck Stops with the Coach and Captain
Leadership comes with immense responsibility, whether on the field or off it. In cricket, we entrust this responsibility to a carefully selected team, captain, and coach — selectors make these decisions on our behalf, on behalf of all stakeholders.
Once the choices are made, we must stand behind them. Support, not scepticism, is what propels teams toward success.
Currently, our cricket test team finds itself navigating one challenge after another, both on and off the field. This persistent scrutiny is not only unfair but also counterproductive.
The Coach!
The controversy began with the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as the coach — a decision met with widespread scepticism. Critics quickly questioned his selection, undermining the team’s cohesion even before the results could speak for themselves. It’s worth reminding ourselves that humility is one of the most critical qualities of any leader, including coaches. Casting judgment prematurely erodes the foundation of trust essential for any team’s success.
Unfortunately, the narrative surrounding this appointment has been further tarnished by disparaging remarks, particularly the one that suggests:
“He was never BCCI’s first choice (it was VVS Laxman), and some of the well-known overseas names didn’t want to coach all three formats, so he was a compromise. Obviously some other compulsions were also there.”
Such statements undermine the coach’s position and the team’s morale. Resorting to an “I told you so” mentality only serves to divide rather than unite.
The Gambhir gambit: Head coach's handling of India's transition raises eyebrows Indian cricket faces challenges with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's performance. Head coach Gautam Gambhir's role is…m.economictimes.com
Leadership demands accountability and collective ownership, which can be achieved by focusing on what’s constructive and aligning with the chosen leaders. We create an environment where both individuals and the team can thrive. Let’s channel our energy into building rather than breaking — a hallmark of true leadership.
The Captain, Leader: Rohit’s loss against New Zealand was a significant blow. Missing the first test and the following discussions — especially when his wife challenged Sunil Gavaskar — fueled the fire. Since then, it has been a challenging downhill journey for Rohit, both as a batter and a captain.
A Foreign Player’s Perspective
This perspective, though from an overseas player, is a must-read!
This is a mature perspective from the legend, Sunil Gavaskar. Media is over-reacting :)
It’s time for the team to unite! Administrators must safeguard the integrity of the sport, ensuring its foundation remains strong. As fans, we share a responsibility to uphold and celebrate the spirit of the game.
Over to Sydney Test!!
Director
1wExcellent analysis Subhash