In the illustration where an elephant, fish, and monkey are tasked with climbing a tree, the message is clear: the education system’s one-size-fits-all approach can lead to unfair assessments, leaving some individuals feeling inadequate. This analogy is not limited to the classroom but extends to the world of sports, where players are often evaluated based on a universal standard, neglecting individual strengths and circumstances that influence their performance.
The consequences of this uniform assessment method in sports are significant. Talented athletes may lose their unique abilities while trying to conform to set standards, individuals focused on achieving statistics may overshadow true talents, and sports may miss out on extraordinary players who bring a special charm to the game.
Cricket, originating as a British pastime in the 1800s, has evolved into a dynamic sport but still struggles with traditional norms. The sport’s rigidity was evident when legendary cricketer Don Bradman introduced innovative techniques that defied conventional practices. While cricket has progressed globally, some regions like Bangladesh continue to emphasize conformity over creativity.
In Bangladesh, young players are discouraged from displaying natural flair, bowlers are pressured to alter their bowling actions, and batters are solely judged based on their run-scoring ability. While runs are essential in cricket, solely focusing on this aspect overlooks the context in which runs are scored, the quality of opposition faced, and the timing of the performance.
The domestic cricket structure exacerbates this issue by favoring players who bat at the top order, as scoring more runs leads to greater recognition. Despite the country’s inclination towards traditional approaches, players like Soumya Sarkar have defied the norm by showcasing unconventional yet effective playing styles.
Soumya, known for his aggressive batting approach, offers a unique dimension to Bangladesh’s cricketing landscape. His natural aggression sets him apart from other batters, providing positive momentum to the team when he finds his rhythm. Despite the risks associated with his aggressive style, Soumya’s impressive strike rate in ODIs and consistent average highlight his impact on the game.
Soumya’s comeback in the recent West Indies series demonstrated his resilience and talent, proving that allowing players the freedom to express themselves can lead to remarkable performances. At 32 years old, Soumya still has much to offer in international cricket, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and nurturing players’ individual strengths rather than imposing rigid standards on them.