Cricket

VVS Laxman Emphasizes Patience and Mental Strength in Injury RehabilitationThe Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) chief, VVS Laxman, has stressed the importance of adhering to rehabilitation protocols and maintaining patience during the recovery process for injured cricketers. Laxman believes that prioritizing the well-being of players is paramount, even if it means extending the rehabilitation timeline.In recent years, several prominent Indian cricketers, including Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Prasidh Krishna, have undergone extensive rehabilitation at the CoE. Laxman highlighted that these players have returned to the field fully fit and with their skills intact, demonstrating the effectiveness of the CoE's approach.Laxman emphasized that players must avoid rushing through the rehabilitation process and instead focus on following the prescribed protocols diligently. He explained that recovery timelines can vary, and it is crucial to be patient and allow the body to heal properly."Having patience to follow the protocols is very, very critical," Laxman said. "We have seen Rishabh Pant's case and we have seen Jassie (Jasprit Bumrah) being here, along with Shreyas, KL, Prasidh...a lot of players. They have really worked hard, showed patience, and were rewarded."Laxman also highlighted the mental challenges associated with rehabilitation. He noted that elite athletes are accustomed to rigorous training and competition, and being confined to a rehabilitation room can be mentally taxing."The challenging part of the rehab is that the entire rehab will probably be for two-three hours in the whole day and the rest of the day they (players) have nothing to do," Laxman said. "Here we are talking about elite sportspersons who actually are busy playing or training six to eight hours, and suddenly they realize that they are confined to the rehab room."To address this, Laxman emphasized the importance of mental strength and resilience. He encouraged players to stay positive and avoid frustration during the rehabilitation process.Laxman also discussed the CoE's injury-prevention program, which aims to minimize the frequency of injuries. He explained that standardized fitness protocols have been implemented across all levels of Indian cricket, from the national team to state teams.Additionally, the CoE has expanded its rehabilitation facilities to domestic players. Through telemedicine and collaborative efforts with state associations, the CoE provides support and guidance to ensure that injured players receive the best possible care.

Ishan Kishan's Surprise Inclusion in Duleep Trophy Raises QuestionsIn a surprising turn of events, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has made an unexpected appearance in the playing XI of the India C team in the second round of the Duleep Trophy. This development has raised eyebrows, as Kishan was previously ruled out of the tournament due to a groin injury.The confusion began when Kishan, a regular in India's cricket squad until last year, was initially ruled out of the Duleep Trophy's first round. The BCCI had announced his injury, sustained during the Buchi Babu Invitational tournament, with Sanju Samson named as his replacement in the India D squad.When the second round squad lists were released, Kishan was not mentioned, and there were no updates about his recovery. However, on September 12, Kishan appeared in the playing XI for India C against India B, causing speculation and confusion among fans and cricket analysts. The second-round announcement had stated no changes in the India C team, adding to the surprise.The uncertainty over how Kishan, initially ruled out with an injury, suddenly joined the India C lineup has escalated without an official statement from the BCCI. Previously, Kishan had stepped away from cricket due to mental health issues, causing him to be dropped from the Indian squads and lose his central contract. His recent century in the Buchi Babu Invitational was seen as a positive sign of his return.With Kishan's unexpected inclusion in the Duleep Trophy, fans await clarification from the BCCI. The situation has led to further speculation about his future in Indian cricket. Some believe that his inclusion indicates a return to form and a potential recall to the national team, while others question the timing and circumstances of his recovery.The BCCI's silence on the matter has only added to the intrigue surrounding Kishan's inclusion. It remains to be seen whether the board will provide an official explanation or whether Kishan's return will remain shrouded in mystery.

Mental health has become an increasingly prevalent topic in elite sports, with many athletes choosing to address it openly. Australian bowler Jhye Richardson is one such player who has shared his experiences with mental health struggles.During the 2021 Indian Premier League (IPL), Richardson played for the Punjab Kings alongside renowned players like KL Rahul, Chris Gayle, and Mohammed Shami. However, it was during this time that he faced significant mental health challenges."A lot of it started during COVID," Richardson revealed. "My trip to the IPL – I left home not in the headspace that I probably should have been. Then things sort of hit the fan while I was away, and everything with COVID and not being able to get home and stuff like that, it just toppled on top of each other."Richardson emphasized the importance of addressing mental health proactively, even when individuals believe they are coping well. "I think you don't realize what sort of space you're in until it becomes too much," he said. "It's like practicing for the short ball. The more you practice the short ball, the better you're going to be at it when that situation arises out in the middle. It's very similar off the field."Richardson's struggles reached a point where he sought professional intervention. "Everything just got to a point where there was some professional intervention that needed to happen," he explained. "I'm not willing to go into a whole lot of detail, but I just landed in a spot where things were bad enough that I stepped back and said, 'I can't continue thinking the way that I am' and (needed) to get a bit more education and knowledge about how the brain works."Richardson praised Western Australia for providing support during his mental health journey. "A lot of the judgment has gone nowadays," he said. "Within our (WA) group we trust everyone with the way that they want to go about things. People are individuals – they train different ways, they think differently."Richardson's experiences highlight the importance of destigmatizing mental health issues in sports. "The resources within cricket nowadays make the process of dealing with mental health issues a lot easier and there is a lot more education there," he said. "But as someone who has dealt with anxiety, not just on the field but away from cricket and day-to-day living, it can be quite exhausting."

Will Pucovski, once hailed as a rising star in Australian cricket, has been forced to retire at the tender age of 26 due to persistent head injuries and concussions. The decision, recommended by a panel of medical experts, marks a sad end to a promising career that was marred by a series of setbacks.Pucovski's struggles with head injuries began early in his career. In 2017, he suffered a concussion while playing for Victoria's Under-19 team. Despite this setback, he made his first-class debut in 2017 and quickly established himself as a prolific run-scorer. However, his progress was repeatedly interrupted by head injuries.In 2021, Pucovski made his Test debut against India in Sydney. Despite a promising start, he was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the helmet by Navdeep Saini. The injury sidelined him for six months and also contributed to mental health issues.In March 2024, Pucovski suffered another concussion during a Sheffield Shield match. The blow ruled him out of the rest of the Australian summer and forced him to withdraw from a contract with Leicestershire for the English summer.The latest concussion proved to be the final straw for Pucovski. After consulting with medical experts, he made the difficult decision to retire from the game. In his career, he played 36 first-class matches for Victoria, scoring 2,350 runs at an average of 45.19 with seven centuries.Pucovski's retirement is a reminder of the serious risks associated with head injuries in sport. It also highlights the importance of mental health support for athletes who suffer from these injuries. While his career may have been cut short, Pucovski's legacy will serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of concussions and the need to prioritize player safety.

Lou Vincent, the former New Zealand cricketer, has finally received his commemorative cap for playing 100 ODIs, nearly 17 years after reaching the milestone in 2007. The cap was presented to Vincent by Sir Richard Hadlee in Auckland at a small ceremony attended by his family and former teammates.Vincent, who finished his ODI career with 2413 runs in 102 matches, also played 23 Tests and nine T20Is for New Zealand between 2001 and 2007. After his international career, he played in the Indian Cricket League (ICL) and on the domestic circuit until 2014, when he was banned for life by the ECB for corrupt activities.In December 2023, the ECB revised the punishment, allowing Vincent to return to working in domestic cricket. Vincent expressed gratitude for the support he received during his ban appeal and acknowledged the work he has done to educate young players about match-fixing.NZC chief executive Scott Weenink stated that the board had been holding onto Vincent's commemorative cap for over a decade. While acknowledging Vincent's past actions, Weenink praised his efforts to combat match-fixing and said that presenting him with the cap was the least they could do.According to Vincent, Hadlee, who had first selected him for New Zealand, was emotional while presenting the cap. Vincent expressed his admiration for Hadlee and thanked him for taking the time to honor him.Vincent's 100th ODI appearance came in Cape Town in December 2007, where he scored 18 runs and took his only ODI wicket by dismissing Jacques Kallis. Now 45 years old, Vincent is slowly returning to cricket and recently played in a five-day match to raise awareness on men's mental health.Vincent reflected on his life after cricket, expressing gratitude for his family and his current lifestyle. He emphasized that he is focused on the present and enjoying the simple things in life.

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has bravely opened up about his past struggles with depression, aiming to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage others to seek help. In a heartfelt social media post and a subsequent YouTube video, Uthappa shared his personal experience with the debilitating condition, emphasizing that his battle with depression was more challenging than any he faced on the cricket field.Uthappa, known for his aggressive batting style, acknowledged the isolating nature of mental health struggles. "We are going to be talking about depression and suicide. We recently heard about Graham Thorpe and David Johnson from India. VB Chandra Sekhar sir who was the rock of Chennai Super Kings (CSK). I have been there as well. It's not a pretty journey. It's debilitating. You feel like you are a burden to people you love. It's challenging. You feel like you are worth less," the 38-year-old said in his YouTube video.Uthappa's revelation comes amid growing concerns about the mental well-being of athletes, particularly in high-pressure environments. He specifically mentioned the tragic suicides of cricketers Graham Thorpe, David Johnson, and VB Chandrasekhar, highlighting the devastating impact of untreated mental health issues.While Uthappa enjoyed considerable success in white-ball cricket, including playing a crucial role in India's 2007 T20 World Cup victory, his international career was marked by inconsistency and selection setbacks. Despite his on-field achievements, Uthappa faced personal challenges that took a toll on his mental health.In his social media post, Uthappa wrote, "I've faced many battles on the cricket field, but none as tough as the one I fought with depression. I'm breaking the silence around mental health because I know I'm not alone."Uthappa's decision to share his story is a significant step towards normalizing conversations about mental health within the sporting world and beyond. By speaking openly about his experiences, he provides a powerful example for others struggling in silence, encouraging them to seek the help they deserve.

Sport, often hailed as the epitome of life's exuberance, is a realm where physical prowess, determination, and the pursuit of excellence intertwine. However, the sudden demise of an athlete can shatter this illusion, leaving us grappling with the stark reality of mortality.The news of a sportsperson's death, whether on the field or off, evokes a profound sense of shock and disbelief. The public, accustomed to witnessing their triumphs and resilience, struggles to reconcile the image of an invincible athlete with the fragility of life.The traditional stages of grief—shock, denial, and acceptance—often fail to fully capture the complex emotions surrounding an athlete's death. The denial phase can linger indefinitely, as the mind refuses to accept that someone who seemed so vibrant and invincible could be gone.In the wake of such tragedies, we are confronted with the harsh reality that even the most gifted athletes are not immune to the perils of life. Injuries, accidents, and illnesses can strike at any moment, reminding us that the pursuit of athletic glory comes with inherent risks.Recent events have brought this truth into sharp focus. The passing of former India opener Aunshuman Gaekwad and England's Graham Thorpe, both victims of cancer, has cast a pall over the cricketing world. Thorpe's death by suicide has further highlighted the mental health challenges that can afflict even the most successful athletes.Sport, with its emphasis on competition and achievement, can create an illusion of invincibility. Athletes are often seen as superhuman, capable of overcoming any obstacle. However, the pressure to perform, the relentless training, and the constant scrutiny can take a heavy toll on their physical and mental well-being.The death of Ayrton Senna, the legendary Formula One driver, in a crash in 1994, remains a haunting reminder of the fragility of life. Senna, known for his fearless driving and unwavering determination, was at the peak of his career when tragedy struck. His untimely demise left a void in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.Similarly, the loss of Indian opener Raman Lamba, who died after being struck on the head while fielding, and Australian batsman Phillip Hughes, who succumbed to a bouncer injury, have left an enduring mark on the cricketing fraternity. These incidents serve as a sobering reminder that even the most mundane aspects of the game can have devastating consequences.The death of an athlete is not merely a loss to the sporting world; it is a loss to society as a whole. Athletes inspire us, motivate us, and bring joy to our lives. Their passing leaves a void that is difficult to fill.As we mourn the loss of these sporting icons, it is important to remember that their legacy extends beyond their achievements on the field. They have taught us the value of perseverance, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Their stories will continue to inspire generations to come.

Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has opened up about the lasting impact of his horrific car crash while filming for BBC's Top Gear in 2022. The incident left him with significant facial injuries that required surgery and led to the suspension of the show's production. Flintoff also received 9 million pounds in compensation for the ordeal.In a series titled "Freddie Flintoff's Field of Dreams on Tour," Flintoff revealed the post-traumatic experience he has endured, including anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. He admitted to struggling with asking for help, despite recognizing the need for it."I genuinely should not be here after what happened," Flintoff said. "I don't want to sit and feel sorry for myself. I don't want sympathy. I'm struggling with my anxiety, I have nightmares, I have flashbacks - it's been so hard to cope."Despite his struggles, Flintoff is determined to move forward and has returned to cricket as part of England's coaching staff for the Test tour of India earlier this year. However, he revealed that anxiety made it difficult for him to leave his home for the tour.Flintoff is now in his first full-time coaching position with Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. He remains committed to overcoming his challenges and using his experience to inspire others."I've got to look at the positives, I've got another chance, and I'm going to go at it," Flintoff said. "I'm seeing that as how it is - a second go."

Graham Thorpe, the former England batsman, tragically lost his life after being struck by a train at Esher railway station on August 4, 2023. The inquest held on Tuesday revealed that the 55-year-old had taken his own life.Thorpe's wife, Amanda, had reported him missing on Monday, and his body was later identified. The Surrey Coroner's Court in Woking confirmed that Thorpe suffered "traumatic injuries" in the incident.Area coroner for Surrey, Simon Wickens, recorded Thorpe's cause of death as multiple injuries during a brief hearing. He expressed his condolences to Thorpe's family and all those affected by his passing. A date for the full inquest will be scheduled later.Thorpe's death has sent shockwaves through the cricket world, where he was a highly respected figure. He had a distinguished England career as an elegant batsman from 1993 to 2005, amassing over 9,000 runs in 100 Test matches and 82 one-day internationals. He scored 16 Test centuries and was known for his composure and technique.After retiring from playing, Thorpe served as a coach for England and Surrey for 12 years. He was highly regarded for his knowledge and ability to develop young players. However, in May 2022, he was hospitalized and described as "seriously ill."Amanda Thorpe revealed to The Times that her husband had attempted suicide two years prior to his death. She said that despite having a loving family, Thorpe struggled with mental illness and believed that his family would be better off without him.Thorpe's daughter, Kitty, 22, emphasized the importance of talking about mental health and reducing the stigma associated with it. She said that her father was a strong person on the field but that mental illness can affect anyone.Graham Thorpe's legacy as a cricketer and coach will be remembered, but his passing also highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues and providing support to those who are struggling.