'Skip IPL if exhausted', Kapil Dev tells Indian players
Former Indian captain Kapil Dev feels the Indian mainstays should miss the IPL if they find international calendar gruelling. The 61-year-old reiterated that representing the country should be the top-most priority rather featuring in India's cash-rich league. Kapil's statement came after Indian captain Virat Kohli commented about the scheduling of India's tours, last month. Here is what Kapil said.
A different feeling when you represent your nation: Kapil Dev
"If you think there is burnout then don't play IPL. You are not representing your country there. If you think you are burned out, you can always take a break during IPL. The feeling should be different when you are representing your country," Kapil said.
You are bound to burnout during long tours: Kapil
Kapil, whose career spanned 16 years, was the undoubtedly the fittest Indian fast bowler. However, he admitted that he himself used to get exhausted while playing in a long overseas tour. "So many times, yes! When you keep on playing, you burn out when you are not getting runs or wickets. But when you do, you never burn out," he said.
The former Indian all-rounder was an outstanding athlete
Kapil Dev represented India in 356 matches across formats. Notably, he never missed a match during his 131-Test career, owing to injury or fitness issues. He was dropped only once for playing a wild slog at a delicate stage in a match.
Burnout can be endured with performances
Kapil also reiterated that being exhausted is more of a mental thing. "You take seven wickets and bowl 20-30 overs a day, you don't feel tired. You bowl 10 overs, give away 80 runs and don't pick a wicket, then you feel tired," Kapil said. He added, "It's a very emotional thing. Your brain works like that. Performances make you very light and happy."
India will look to bounce back in second Test
The dejected Team India would like to turn the tables in the upcoming Test at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch, commencing on February 29. Hosts New Zealand currently lead the two-match Test series 1-0. In six Tests played at this venue, the Kiwis have won four and lost one, while one was drawn. Besides, India are yet to play their maiden Test here.
