Former New Zealand cricketer Ian Smith opines that the Indian cricket team’s inability to win big titles arises from a deeply ingrained fear of failing. This has left people wondering why, although they are talented and skillful, team India has not won an ICC trophy since 2013.
Smith related with the team saying that he knew how great pressure was on them as players. According to him, fear of failure is a significant factor in sports, especially in cricket. He also spoke of playing under the weight of unprecedented expectations as an individual burden borne by the Indian team alone.
He also observed that way too much is expected of no other side in particular who ‘live each game’.
“Fear of failure is a massive thing in sport. Pressure is a big thing. Being able to handle the big occasion. I mean, I don’t think any team in the world, or cricket in particular, plays with as much pressure on their shoulders as the Indian cricket team,” Smith was quoted as saying by PTI.
Their constant need to win makes every single day challenging for players making international match stakes even higher. The Indian cricket journey is filled with expectation and critique that renders it like a mental war for those involved.
“The expectation… desire from the population for the team to win almost every game. Every day you get out of bed you have to win. It’s a tough thing to have to bear,” Smith added.
The Indian cricket Team’s aspiration for major titles is hampered by immense fear of losing and required achievement without fail. There are still some members who believe success can be achieved despite all odds and may surmount these psychological obstacles for millions fans around the world.
