'There will be pressure if you play...' - Kapil Dev makes bold remark about Indian T20 League

Kapil Dev (Image source: Twitter)

The big talk in the cricketing circles has been all about pressure and the packed international schedule along with workload management to counter the pressure. But one man who has been under pressure and that element has brought the best out of him is Kapil Dev the 1983 World Cup hero.

In a gathering at Kolkata which happened last Friday, he expressed his sharp views on the topic and told people to look at it in a different lens. He went on to say that there is no question of pressure and burden when one plays for the country. In fact, any cricketer who plays for the country should be privileged and proud.

In a big remark that Kapil made in an address which has been put out on Facebook, he said if the player feels pressured then he should, “open a banana stall, or sell eggs.” This was a big response to the current players who are taking breaks due to the stress they are facing and also because of the packed playing schedule.

Take pleasure and pride in playing for India - Kapil Dev

"I keep hearing 'We are playing the Indian T20 League. There is so much pressure.' This word is so common, right? To them, I say 'Don't play'. Who is asking you to? There is pressure, but if you are playing at that level, you will be admired and abused. If you are afraid of abuse, then don't play. You are representing the country and you have pressure? How is that possible? Out of a country of 100 crores, 20 of you are playing and then you say you have pressure? Instead, say it's a matter of pride. You are getting so much love from people. Learn to take that pride. He said with an interesting take on the Indian T20 League.

"Pressure is an American word. If you don't want to work, don't. Is anyone forcing you? Jaa ke kele ki shop lagao. Ande becho ja ke. (Open a banana stall, go sell eggs). But when you have gotten an opportunity, why do you take it as pressure. Take it as pleasure and have fun with it. The day you start doing it, the job will appear easy. But if you call the same thing pressure, nothing good can come of it.