Suresh Raina spoke about how important mental health support and family is for Indian cricketers. He talked about the pressure of always having to perform. BCCI had made rules earlier this year to limit the time families can spend with players on tours after checking on how the players were doing.
Raina said cricketers can face mental health issues, especially when they are not playing well. Mental health is a problem. If you are not doing well and others are trying to take your place, problems can arise, Raina told Ranveer Allahbadia on YouTube.
You worry about being dropped. When things are tough, you need someone to talk to, Raina added.
Raina, who played 18 Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20Is from 2005 to 2018, also said that players are scared to tell teammates about their mental health issues. They worry that it might reach the captain, coach or selector which can harm their chances.
When you are happy, you don’t need anyone. But when you are sad, you are scared to talk, thinking it might reach the coach or captain, he said. So out of worry, players stay quiet.
Raina spoke against the BCCI’s new rule.
Having family on tours is important. BCCI made a big call to not allow families and I don’t agree with it, he said. You are sending them on tour for two months… families should be allowed. They are not against the players; they want us to score runs and the country to win.
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Raina used Virat Kohli as an example to back his point.
Imagine Virat Kohli playing and his daughter is clapping – that’s a great moment. He will do great, Raina said.
What’s the New BCCI Family Rule?
Earlier this year, many reports said the Indian cricket board checked on the family time for players during overseas tours. For tours longer than 45 days, partners and kids (under 18) can join for one visit per series (by format) for up to two weeks.
