New Delhi: Former captain Kapil Dev, who won India its first World Cup in 1983, has openly expressed his opinion on the ongoing debate regarding the role of coach in Indian cricket. After the recent 0-2 Test series defeat against South Africa, questions are being raised on the working style of head coach Gautam Gambhir. Kapil Dev said that in modern cricket, the job of a head coach is more about handling the players and creating the right environment than technical training.
Questions are being raised on Gambhir’s coaching.
Gautam Gambhir is facing continuous criticism after the defeat in the Test series against South Africa. Experts and former players are raising questions regarding team selection, frequent changes and use of part-time bowlers. Meanwhile, while speaking at the ICC centenary session of the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Kapil Dev gave a balanced view on this entire issue.
The word ‘coach’ is being misunderstood
Kapil Dev believes that in today’s era the meaning of the word “coach” has changed. He said that nowadays the word ‘coach’ is used very lightly. Gautam Gambhir cannot be a coach in the traditional sense. He plays more of a manager’s role. Recalling his early cricket days, he said that the real coaches were those who taught him the basics of cricket at school and college level. Players at the international level are already experts, so they have less need for technical coaching.
Technical coaching limited in international cricket
Kapil raised the question that when a player is already a leg spinner, fast bowler or wicketkeeper, then what can the head coach teach him technically. He said that how can Gautam Gambhir teach technique to a leg spinner or wicketkeeper? Here the roles change. According to him, the real job of a coach in international cricket is to manage the players’ mental state, confidence and team atmosphere.
Player management is the biggest responsibility
Kapil Dev stressed that player management is the most important aspect in today’s cricket. He said that as a manager you have to motivate the players, make them realize that they can do better. Young players learn by watching you. He believes that the main job of the coach and captain is to give confidence to the players and create a positive environment around them.
Special attention to players with bad form
Recalling his captaincy days, Kapil Dev said that he always spent time with those players who were struggling with their form. He said that if a player scores a century then there is no need to have dinner with him. I loved sitting with players who were struggling. According to him, for the success of the team, it is important to strengthen the weak links and not just focus on the star players.
Keeping the team together is real leadership
Kapil Dev finally said that the role of a captain or coach is not limited to his performance only. He said that your job is to keep the team united and instill confidence in the players. This is real leadership.
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