Despite being bashed by fans previously for his remarks on pressure, India's first World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev continues to maintain his stance. Addressing a gathering in Kolkata last Friday, the former cricketer once again touched upon the topic, and urged for a change in perspective.
Advising the current set of cricketers to enjoy the sport, Kapil Dev insisted that a player should stop playing if they can't bear the pressure of representing the country. Sharing his insights on the topic, India's legendary all-rounder wondered how can a player chosen to represent the country from a population of 100 crore, give such explanation. He feels the talks should instead focus on pride rather than pressure.
In a lengthy address, the video of which was shared on Facebook, Kapil Dev also made a strong remark against players citing pressure to “open a banana stall, or sell eggs.”
"I keep hearing 'We are playing the IPL. There is so much pressure.' This word is so common, right? To them, I say 'Don't play'. Who is asking you to? There is pressure, but if you are playing at that level, you will be admired and abused. If you are afraid of abuses, then don't play. You are representing the country and you have pressure? How is that possible? Out of a country of 100 crore, 20 of you are playing and then you say you have pressure? Instead, say it's a matter of pride. You are getting so much love from people. Learn to take that pride.
{{/usCountry}}"I keep hearing 'We are playing the IPL. There is so much pressure.' This word is so common, right? To them, I say 'Don't play'. Who is asking you to? There is pressure, but if you are playing at that level, you will be admired and abused. If you are afraid of abuses, then don't play. You are representing the country and you have pressure? How is that possible? Out of a country of 100 crore, 20 of you are playing and then you say you have pressure? Instead, say it's a matter of pride. You are getting so much love from people. Learn to take that pride.
{{/usCountry}}"Pressure is an American word. If you don't want to work, don't. Is anyone forcing you? Jaa ke kele ki shop lagao. Ande becho ja ke. (Open a banana stall, go sell eggs). But when you have gotten an opportunity, why do you take it as pressure. Take it as pleasure and have fun with it. The day you start doing it, the job will appear easy. But if you call the same thing pressure, nothing good can come of it."
Several cricketers have citied pressure and have taken lengthy breaks from the sport. Many, including England's premier all-rounder Ben Stokes, have resonated similar views and have taken retirement from one format.
Virat Kohli, who was struggling for form until recent times, too took a break following the England tour before joining the squad for the Asia Cup, where he also ended the over 1000 days century drought and has been enjoying imperious form since then.