Former India captain Kapil Dev has cautioned supporters to temper their expectations of cricket and Indian players, which might leave them sad. According to the 1983 World Cup-winning captain, it is critical to achieve the proper balance and approach cricket as a sport.
India had a terrific run in the 2023 World Cup at home, winning 10 matches in a row. Australia, however, snapped their unbeaten streak in the final, winning the summit clash by six wickets. India’s loss led to fans around the country being shattered as they were backing the Men in Blue to lift the trophy.
In response to the passionate sentiments of supporters, Kapil Dev was cited by PTI as saying:
“Don’t keep so much hope that people end up with broken hearts. We need to keep a balance. Other teams also came to India to compete in the World Cup. We shouldn’t create so much hype. We need to look at sports as sports only. Whoever plays good on the day, we need to respect that. We are too emotional.”
The former India all-rounder made the remarks on the sidelines of the Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational golf tournament’s first tee-off ceremony in Gurugram.
“There are shortcomings which we need to address” – Kapil Dev on India’s Failure to Win ICC Trophies
India’s failure to qualify for the 2023 World Cup extends their wait for an ICC trophy, which they last won in 2013 when they won the Champions Trophy. The Men in Blue have repeatedly reached the knockout stage, but have fallen short in crucial moments.
When asked if the strain of the big occasion affects Indian players, Kapil Dev replied:
“I think today’s players can answer how much pressure they feel. We can only feel.”
Kapil Dev
The 64-year-old cricket veteran, however, conceded that Indian cricket had flaws that must be rectified.
“If they (India) win it feels really good. There are shortcomings which we need to address. It is not that you won’t have shortcomings after a win. What’s most important is to rectify them.”
Kapil Dev
India were bowled out for 240 in the 2023 World Cup final in Ahmedabad. Australia reached the mark in 43 overs thanks to Travis Head’s century.