Synopsis
Former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath has lent his support to PM Modi’s Fit India initiative, linking national success with fitness levels. He also advocates for mandatory domestic cricket participation for players, emphasizing grassroots development as vital to the sport's foundation.Key Takeaways
- Support for PM Modi's Fit India initiative.
- Importance of fitness for both athletes and the nation.
- Mandatory participation in domestic cricket is essential.
- Sports should be integrated into school curricula.
- Discipline and consistency are key to the future of Indian cricket.
New Delhi, Jan 30 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath has expressed his firm support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India initiative, highlighting the close relationship between a nation’s success and its overall fitness. He also endorsed the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) decision to mandate participation in domestic cricket for Indian players, asserting that the sport's foundation is rooted in grassroots development.
Amarnath emphasized that fitness is vital not just for athletes but for the entire nation. He stated, “A fit country is always a successful country. Nations that prioritize sports not only produce outstanding athletes but also exceptional individuals. They thrive in every aspect,” he told IANS.
He underscored the importance of health, saying, “Health is paramount. If you possess health, you possess life. It's crucial for a nation to be healthy. I wholeheartedly support Mr. Modi’s vision.”
Amarnath insisted that sports must be integral to school curricula, enabling children to establish a solid fitness foundation early on. “Sports is essential. Every school should ensure students actively participate in sports. A healthy populace translates to a progressive nation,” he asserted.
In response to the recent BCCI initiative regarding mandatory domestic cricket participation, Amarnath expressed full support. “Playing domestic cricket is essential. That’s where the foundation is built. Critics might argue otherwise, but in countries like Australia, England, and New Zealand, domestic cricket is a norm. It’s part of their system,” he clarified.
He elaborated on the necessity of maintaining connections with the domestic circuit. “The schedule is uniform for everyone. If someone is asked to play for free, no one will comply. However, understanding the significance of grassroots level participation reveals that domestic cricket is what elevates you to stardom, and it’s essential to give back,” he explained.
Amarnath reiterated that no player is greater than the sport itself. “The game surpasses the individual. When a player believes they are more significant than the game, problems arise. No one is infallible. Players will come and go, but the game endures,” he remarked. He stressed that cricket should always be performance-driven. “On the field, there are 11 players per team, and there should be no hierarchy among them. It should be performance-centric, with every player striving to contribute their best to the team,” he added.
Discussing the prospects of Indian cricket, Amarnath asserted that discipline and consistency are crucial for success. “Change is inevitable, and it's beneficial. However, if discipline falters, stringent measures must be taken. Standards must be established and upheld,” he stated. He also highlighted the need for player sacrifices and commitment. “Sacrifices are essential in life. Respect and give back to what made you a star. That’s the only path forward.”
