The ugly side of Indian cricket: 6 truths players don’t want you to know

1. Silent Team Politics

Selections aren’t always about performance - sometimes, it’s about who you know and when you peak.

2. Favouritism in Selection

Coaches and captains often back their “trusted” players, even when others perform better in domestic or IPL circuits.

3. The Fitness Hypocrisy

“Yo-Yo Test” and fitness standards are flexible - they tighten for some, loosen for others depending on the board’s mood.

4. The Fear of Speaking Out

Players avoid criticizing the system publicly - one wrong word, and their career can quietly disappear.

5. Commercial Pressure > Team Strategy

Sometimes players are picked or promoted because of sponsorship deals, fan following, or broadcaster influence.

6. Mental Health Ignored

Behind the smiles, many cricketers silently struggle with burnout, anxiety, and loneliness - but the topic stays buried under “team spirit.”

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