Short Description
Indian cricket legend R Ashwin advocates for a more relatable image of players, urging fans to see cricketers as professionals, not demigods, in a bid to normalize expectations.
Read Time
3 minutes, 45 seconds
Main Article
In an era where sports personalities often command immense celebrity status, R Ashwin, the renowned Indian spinner, brings forth a compelling argument against treating cricketers as demigods. He highlights the need for players, particularly in Indian cricket, to maintain a connection with the common populace and not be elevated to the level of superstars. This perspective was shared during an engaging discussion on his YouTube channel, Ash Ki Baat, where Ashwin emphasized the importance of normalizing expectations in cricket.
With over 765 international wickets, Ashwin reflects on how performances from legendary players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should be viewed as standard rather than extraordinary. “We are cricketers. We are not actors or superstars,” he asserts. This call for humility in sports resonates well with the sentiment that sports professionals should be relatable figures rather than icons standing on pedestals. By advocating for a shift away from “superstardom,” Ashwin aligns with like-minded voices in the cricketing community, including team coach Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir stresses the importance of team achievements over individual milestones, further solidifying Ashwin’s argument against the emphasis on celebrity culture within the sport.
Moreover, as the ICC Champions Trophy approaches, Ashwin questions the team selection, particularly the choice of fielding five spinners in a predominantly fast-bowling favorable location like Dubai. His insights suggest an astute understanding of team strategy, showcasing that he remains deeply invested in the sport’s tactical elements. He discusses how the inclusion of prominent all-rounders alongside established spinners could require overlooking a fast bowler, calling for a more balanced approach to team composition.
In a landscape dominated by celebrity culture, Ashwin’s message is a refreshing reminder that cricketers are sportspersons who should aspire to connect with their fans on a more human level. His reflections promote a narrative of grounded expectations within the Indian cricketing community, cultivating an environment where fans can celebrate their heroes without losing sight of their humanity.
Short Summary
R Ashwin’s recent statements advocate for a shift in perception surrounding cricketers, urging a more grounded approach that prioritizes team efforts over individual celebrity status. By fostering relatability, Ashwin aims to reshape the culture of Indian cricket as it approaches the ICC Champions Trophy.
