Controversies and cricket always go hand-in-hand. Not just on field but off the field, certain remarks by cricketers land them in trouble. The recent utterances by young Indian cricketers Hardik Pandya and K L Rahul in a talk show in a television channel got them condemnation. They have received backlash on social media. Whatever may be their achievement in the sport, yet they are remembered for how they conduct themselves in real life. They should remember that they live and die by their conduct away from cricket. Several international sports personalities lost their prominence by making needless statements.
Taking part in a reality show recently, both Rahul and Pandya made some ‘sexist’ remarks. It immediately triggered debates. They were condemned. Caught by surprise, the players issued an apology and said they would never repeat those statements. But the damage was already done. The broadcasters pulled down the episode. Fans of these cricketers expressed shock at their comments. They said the sportspersons should have maintained decorum and showed restraint. The BCCI has even suggested a two-ODI ban for these players after many questioned why the two were still not suspended. Rahul and Pandya are part of the team that is currently touring Down Under.
BCCI should make sure that cricketers are not allowed to appear on such TV shows. Anything other than cricket should be banned. The likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid set a great example. They were disciplined not just on ground but away from it too. They spoke few words. And made sure that they never hurt anyone. In their long career, the likes of Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Sachin or Dhoni never got into any controversy. Focus should be on the sport. They should make sure that they contribute their best to help the team win rather than putting themselves in an embarrassing situation by their conduct. Such needless acts would indirectly affect their performance on the field. Watch what you speak, is the advice.