Cricket should not be sold, it has to be taught: Javagal Srinath

Former India fast bowler Javagal Srinath reckons the private cricket academies do not have the right attitude or objectives, adding that cricket should not be sold but rather be taught. He also spoke about the importance of the Ranji Trophy, calling it the “stepping stone” to Test cricket. He feels that Test cricket is the way forward if players have to connect better with the sport.

When asked if the orientation of the players towards cricket has changed, the former pacer said that it is different today from what it was during his time when the emphasis was on Test cricket. He feels it needs guidance on stressing the importance of the longest format.

“Ranji Trophy is a stepping stone to Test cricket and players keen to play the longer version of the game need to excel here at this level. If you want to connect better to the sport, the longer version is the way forward. We were lucky because our objective was just Test cricket, not even ODIs. Now it is different because IPL is very challenging,” Srinath told the Times of India.

A good red-ball cricketer can shift his game to suit other formats: Srinath

“Guidance is required in emphasizing the importance and depth of red-ball cricket. A good red-ball cricketer with a good cricketing brain can always shift his game to suit any other format,” explained Srinath. “Some of the academies do not have the right attitude or objectives, we have to be careful and mindful of them. I have nothing against private academies, but cricket should not be sold, instead, it has to be taught,” he added.

Srinath was one of the fastest bowlers during his playing days and is regarded as one of the finest pacers India has produced. He made his international debut in 1991 and appeared in 67 Tests and 229 ODIs. He picked up 551 wickets with an average of just over 29 for India. He was part of the Indian team that made the final of the ICC World Cup in 2003. He completed the double of scoring 1000 runs and taking 100 wickets in Tests.