Unnecessary: Atherton on Akash putting hand on Duckett’s shoulder
Cricket is a game of emotions, and sometimes, the intensity of the competition can get the better of players. In the world of international cricket, sledging and banter are a common occurrence, but it’s not always necessary to take it a step further. Recently, India pacer Akash Deep’s behavior towards England opener Ben Duckett during the fifth Test has come under scrutiny, with former England cricketer Michael Atherton criticizing the act as “unnecessary”.
Akash Deep dismissed Ben Duckett during the fifth Test, and in a moment that caught the attention of many, he put his hand around Duckett’s shoulders and exchanged a few words. While some might see this as a harmless gesture, others, including Atherton, believe it was uncalled for.
In an interview, Atherton said, “He has given Duckett a bit of a send-off. It looked like they knew each other well.” While Atherton didn’t explicitly state that Akash Deep’s behavior was wrong, his tone suggested that the act was unnecessary and might have been perceived as disrespectful by Duckett.
It’s worth noting that sledging and banter have always been a part of the game, and players often try to get inside each other’s heads to gain an advantage. However, there’s a fine line between playful banter and crossing the line. In this case, Akash Deep’s behavior might have been seen as crossing that line.
Dinesh Karthik, a former Indian cricketer, also weighed in on the issue, saying that Akash Deep and Duckett seemed to know each other well. While this might be true, it doesn’t necessarily justify the act. As Karthik himself pointed out, the gesture looked like a send-off, which is often seen as a sign of respect towards a batsman who has been dismissed.
In recent years, there have been several instances of players being criticized for their behavior on the field. From sledging to aggressive celebrations, some players have pushed the boundaries of what is considered acceptable. While some might argue that Akash Deep’s behavior was harmless, others might see it as a sign of disrespect towards his opponent.
In cricket, respect is a two-way street. Players need to respect the game, their opponents, and the umpires. While it’s okay to get competitive and try to win, it’s equally important to maintain a level of decorum and sportsmanship.
Atherton’s criticism of Akash Deep’s behavior is important because it highlights the need for players to be respectful towards each other. As a former England cricketer, Atherton knows the importance of maintaining a level of respect and sportsmanship on the field. His criticism is a reminder that, even in the heat of competition, players need to remember that they are representing their countries and themselves.
In conclusion, Akash Deep’s behavior towards Ben Duckett during the fifth Test was unnecessary and might have been perceived as disrespectful. While sledging and banter are a part of the game, players need to remember that there’s a fine line between playful and unacceptable behavior. As athletes, we need to strive to be better role models and maintain a level of respect and sportsmanship on the field.
