Former India legend Sachin Tendulkar delivered an inspiring message to aspiring cricketers during an event at the SRT10 Altevol Centre of Excellence academy in Ahmedabad. Speaking to young players and parents, Tendulkar stressed the importance of preparation, discipline and patience while warning youngsters against taking shortcuts in the game.
Sachin Tendulkar asks youngsters to trust preparation and discipline
During his speech, Tendulkar explained that while success cannot always be guaranteed in cricket, preparation and discipline are fully in a player’s control. The legendary batter also spoke about the importance of making sacrifices to achieve bigger goals and warned youngsters against seeking shortcuts in professional cricket. Tendulkar’s comments on preparation and discipline echoed the values often associated with former India coach Rahul Dravid and several other modern greats of Indian cricket.
“What I am trying to tell all the children here is that if you go to play every time, you won’t be successful. But every time, you can prepare and go. Success is never guaranteed. But your preparation and your discipline, focus, all these things, as we say, to tick all those boxes, are in your hands. You have to sacrifice many things. If you want to play for India, then you will have to do certain things. There are no shortcuts. But if you take a shortcut, you will be exposed to the whole world,” Tendulkar said.
Tendulkar urges parents to support children without pressure
Tendulkar also had a strong message for parents, asking them not to burden children with excessive expectations and pressure during their sporting journey. The former India captain further emphasised that failure is a natural part of cricket and should be treated as an opportunity to learn and improve.
“Please understand that nothing happens overnight. We want our children to be successful. But we have to work hard for that. And above all, we have to give freedom to the kids. Freedom and encouragement are a great combination to have. I want the parents make a promise to me, that you will not pressurise your children. Failure is a foundation. Every batter gets out, and every bowler goes for runs. That is normal,” Tendulkar said.
