Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh has raised concerns over the player management of the current squad following the problems of the 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 failing to give their best performance.
Virat Kohli’s struggle with technique
Kohli, despite starting the series on a high with an unbeaten century in Perth, managed just 90 runs in the remaining eight innings. His long-standing weakness outside the off-stump was exploited by the Australian pacers Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc. Yograj criticized the team’s management for not intervening and advising Kohli to avoid playing cover-up, a stroke that has repeatedly led to his dismissal.
“Someone should have been guiding him, saying, ‘Virat, don’t play this shot on these pitches.’ The ball bounces and carries more on Australian tracks and adjustments are needed.” Yograj told IANS, stressing the need for technical feedback and corrective measures.
Yograj emphasizes the need to manage people instead of coaching
Yograj highlighted the difference between traditional coaching and effective people management, especially for players of Kohli’s and Rohit’s stature. “When you play for India at this level, you don’t need typical coaching. What you need is someone who understands you and manages you.” he said. He added that even the greatest players are not immune to technical flaws or mental blocks, which is why proper leadership is essential.
Yograj emphasized that the role of the management is to lift the players when they are struggling. “Every player goes through a difficult period. What is needed is someone to reassure them, to say: ‘Don’t worry, you are a great player. This phase will pass.’ It’s about boosting morale and providing targeted technical advice when needed,” he noticed.
A call for stronger leadership
Looking back at the Indian way of training Gautam GambhirYograj acknowledged Gambhir’s brilliance as a cricketer and leader. However, he emphasized the need to balance constructive criticism with management support, especially for younger players.
“The management should help the players understand the nuances of the game, give them guidance and instill confidence. For example, telling players like Rohit or Kohli, this happens to everyone, can go a long way in restoring their belief in themselves,” Yograj suggested.
ALSO READ: “It takes a lot of character” – AB de Villiers tips for struggling Virat Kohli
The 66-year-old concluded by reiterating the importance of an empathetic and proactive approach to management. “When players are struggling, management can act like a magic wand, picking them up and helping them get back on form. This balance between technical coaching and mental support is what the Indian team needs to succeed at the highest level,” he added further.
Chandigarh: Former Indian cricketer, Yograj Singh says, “There is a big question when it comes to coaching. When you play for India, you don’t need a coach if you are a good player. You are representing India and Sometimes all you need is the mindset of a player.. . pic.twitter.com/gfjSf3BFoV
— IANS (@ians_india) January 5, 2025
ALSO READ: Travis Head rubs salt on India’s WTC and ODI WC agony with Instagram story after Australia win at BGT
