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Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh has raised concerns over the player management of the current squad following the struggles of the senior players during the recently concluded Frontera-Gavaskar Trophy. India suffered a 1–3 series defeat against Australia, their first loss in a decade, with Virat Kohli i Rohit Sharma not achieve the best performance.
Virat Kohli’s Struggle with Technique
Kohli, despite starting the series on a high note with an unbeaten century in Perth, managed just 90 runs in the remaining eight innings. Their long-standing weakness off-stump was exploited by the Australian pacers Scott Boland, Josh Hazlewood i Mitchell Starc. Yograj criticized the team management for not intervening and advised Kohli to avoid playing cover, a shot that repeatedly led to his dismissal.
“Someone should have guided him by saying, ‘Virat, don’t play that shot on these pitches’. The ball bounces and carries more on Australian tracks, and adjustments are needed.” Yograj told IANS, emphasizing the need for technical feedback and corrective measures.
Yograj emphasizes the need for man management over coaching
Yograj highlighted the distinction between traditional coaching and effective man management, especially for players of the stature of Kohli and Rohit. “When you play in India at this level, you don’t need the typical training. What you need is someone who understands you and manages you.” he said He added that even the best players are not immune to technical flaws or mental blocks, so proper guidance is essential.
Yograj stressed that the management’s role is to uplift the players when they are struggling. “Every player goes through a rough patch. What they need is someone to reassure them by saying, ‘Don’t worry, you’re a great player’. This phase will pass. It’s about boosting morale and providing targeted technical advice when it’s needed necessary”. he remarked
It calls for stronger leadership
Reflecting on the Indian training setup below Gautam GambhirYograj acknowledged Gambhir’s brilliance as a cricketer and leader. However, he emphasized the need to balance constructive criticism with supportive management, especially for younger players.
“Management needs to help players understand the nuances of the game, provide guidance and instill confidence. For example, telling players like Rohit or Kohli that this happens to everyone, can go a long way in restoring their self-confidence.” . suggested Yograj.
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The 66-year-old concluded by reiterating the importance of an empathetic and proactive management approach. “When players are struggling, the management can act like a magic wand, lifting them up and helping them regain their form. This balance between technical coaching and mental support is what the Indian team needs to have success at the highest level.” added more
Chandigarh: Former Indian cricketer Yograj Singh says, “A big question arises when it comes to coaching. When you play for India, you shouldn’t need a coach if you are a good player. You are representing India and It just takes management, sometimes, a player’s mentality… pic.twitter.com/gfjSf3BFoV
— IANS (@ians_india) January 5, 2025
