Communication gap the main problem with foreign coaches

An Indian coach would be better - Wadekar

Cricinfo staff

June 3, 2007

Ajit Wadekar - An Indian coach can understand the team psyche better © The Cricketer International

Ajit Wadekar, the former Indian captain has said that an Indian coach would be better suited for the requirements of the Indian team. He said that a foreign coach coming from a different cultural background generally encounters a communication gap while dealing with the team.

"Personally, I believe because of the Indian culture, psyche and varied backgrounds of the Indian players, they can subconsciously form groups. A foreign coach may not be able to understand the nuances or work ethics as well as an Indian coach," said Wadekar.

The former captain was critical of Greg Chappell as the Indian coach and he said so in not unclear terms. "Well, if you look at the sharp dip in world ratings of Indian team, it shows that he failed. Perhaps, because he tried to implement what might have suited the Australian system," said Wadekar.

When asked about the ways in which Indian cricket could be improved, Wadekar, the first Indian captain to lead the team to series victories abroad, said that the best thing to do would be to prepare more sporting pitches in the country. He also said that participation of all star players should be made mandatory in domestic matches to help up-and-coming cricketers improve their game.

Wadekar was not happy with the reactions which came after the Indian team's shock defeat to Bangladesh in the World Cup. He said that the defeat was more of an exception. "That was only an aberration and after the recent Indian success we know where they stand in world cricket," he said.

Wadekar also voiced his worry over the frequent breakdown suffered by India's young fast bowlers. "It is really disturbing that so many young fast bowlers are getting injured. There is something seriously wrong. The support staff and the physio should make comprehensive tests before declaring a player completely fit. On their part, the players have to be honest and never fake injuries. They should look up to the great Kapil Dev as the perfect role model," said Wadekar.

© Cricinfo

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Players/Umpires

Ajit Wadekar

Teams

India