From Babblers to Champions: Steps towards Professionalism and Unity in the Indian Cricket Team
For decades, the Indian cricket team has been known for its vibrant passion, rich talent, and sometimes, a contrasting lack of discipline on the field. While cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Kapil Dev have set a high standard for the team, recent decades have seen a mixed bag of performances, marked by moments of brilliance and periods of mediocrity. However, with the current crop of players, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni, the Indian team is finally showing signs of taking a giant leap towards professionalism and unity, culminating in its current status as the top-ranked Test team in the world.
Professionalism: The New Norm
Under the astute leadership of Virat Kohli, the Indian team has adopted a standards-based approach, where every player is expected to maintain a high level of fitness, discipline, and teamwork. The likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, and Hardik Pandya have embodied this new culture, shedding their laid-back image and embracing the rigors of professional cricket. The team’s fitness levels have improved dramatically, with the introduction of a state-of-the-art training facility at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.
Unity in Diversity
The Indian team has also made tremendous progress in bridging the chasm between its captain and the rest of the players. Kohli, known for his strong leadership and unwavering commitment to the team’s goals, has fostered an environment where every player is valued, heard, and empowered to contribute. The team’s success in the 2017 Champions Trophy and the 2018 Test series against Australia, which India won 4-1, are testaments to the growing unity among the squad members.
Emphasis on Mental Toughness
The Indian team has also recognized the importance of mental toughness, recognizing that a strong mind-set is as crucial as a strong bat or ball. Players like Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been at the forefront of India’s Test resurgence, and Jasprit Bumrah, who has quickly become a world-class bowler, have demonstrated the ability to handle pressure and perform under stressful situations.
A Future Full of Promise
As the Indian team continues to evolve, the signs are promising. The likes of Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, and Washington Sundar are churning out impressive performances in domestic cricket, while existing players like Rishabh Pant, Shardul Thakur, and Kuldeep Yadav are nearing the threshold of regular selection. The Indian team’s upcoming tours of the West Indies and the 2019 World Cup will provide an ideal platform for its players to consolidate their gains and flex their muscles against premier opposition.
Conclusion
The Indian cricket team’s journey towards professionalism and unity is far from over, but the potential for greatness is palpable. As the players continue to gel together, pool their talents, and conquer their individual demons, they will be rewarded with success both at home and abroad. India’s cricket fans, craving a triumphant return to the glory days, can finally be optimistic about the future, knowing that the team is well on its way to achieving new heights, with the principles of professionalism and unity guiding the way forward.
