Sachin Tendulkar speaks out the importance of mental health in cricket

At present, cricketers are often heard to be suffering from mental depression as they have been confined to the biological safety zone for a long time. With the precautions of COVID-19, all kinds of cricket have been running since June last year creating a bio-bubble. 

As a result, cricketers are having a negative impact on their mental health. Sachin Tendulkar, one of the best batsmen in the game’s history, has spoken about inspiring current cricketers in this regard. He has seen many ups and downs in his long 24-year career.

At the end of his career, Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in ODI and Test formats. He has made a century of centuries combining these formats. Next to his name, there are about 34 thousand international runs. But the journey was not smooth at all.

Tendulkar said he had to fight mentally for at least 10-12 years and spent many sleepless nights. At one point, he realized that his ability to survive in the game and physical peace of mind is a big issue.

Tendulkar spoke about this aspect of his career by organizing an online educational platform in India. He realized over time that mental health is equally important as physical health for the games.

The game would have started in my thoughts long before he entered the field. The level of anxiety was much higher. He has had to deal with stress for 10-12 years, and he has spent many sleepless nights before the matches. Later he started to adapt in such a way that it is also part of my preparation. After that, he stayed normal even though he didn’t sleep at night.

Tendulkar used to keep himself busy to get rid of this condition. He wanted to be engaged with something to keep his mind cheerful. He used to act like a batsman, watch TV, play video games. Even making tea, and dressing my clothes, all helped him to get ready for the matches. The day before the match, he would tidy up and pack my bags. His older brother taught him all this. He followed this routine even before playing the last game for India.

At the same time, he said, just as any injury is taken seriously in cricket, there is no opportunity to underestimate mental health because both sides are equally crucial for the game.

When someone is injured, physio doctors check to see where the problem is. Everyone must go through good and bad times. When it comes to bad times, people need to be around. It is essential to adapt here. Not only the cricketer, but the people around him also need to understand this. When everyone agrees, the solution will come out.

All the players across the globe are dealing with mental preparations because of the bi-bubble and continuing to amuse the fans. It’s also the responsibility for the fans to appreciate their efforts.

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