'Wasim Akram’s view is a wake-up call for Indian cricketers'

Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram recently called Indian cricketers 'softies' and 'spoilt' following India's inconsistent performance. Former Karnataka skipper J Arun Kumar agrees with Akram. He tells DNA that India's inconsistent performance has been due to the dependence on a few star players. Only if the young players, too, start performing well can the Indian team think of winning the World Cup next year, he says.

Do you agree with Wasim Akram’s view that Indian cricketers are 'softies' and 'spoilt'?
I agree with Akram. It is true that today we are having excess cricket, which takes a toll on the cricketers. But, I think, that they are pampered too much, due to which they fall prey to injuries. Even 10 years ago, there was a lot of cricket, but we ensured that we were fit enough. Also, except for a few cricketers who want to make it big, most of them are satisfied with whatever money they earn. So, I think, there is complacency. 

Do you think criticism like this will demoralise  cricketers, especially those who are new to the team?
It's a wake-up call for Indian cricketers. In India, people can make you god if you perform well, and, at the same time, forget you instantly if you don't perform well. The criticism is a wake-up call.

There is no question of demoralisation. If you can't handle criticism, you will never be able to handle pressure on the field.

What is the reason behind India’s inconsistent form?
One thing is that too much cricket is being played. I think it's a mental problem. Maybe the cricketers have to stay away from their families, so sometimes they may have a bad day. But the bigger problem is too much dependence on star players. We have seen
Sehwag, Dravid, Laxman performing well, but unless the youngsters do well, the team will always be inconsistent.

How has the new generation of cricketers fared?
The positive side is that today's cricketers are trained well and they follow a scientific approach to the game, which can make them world-beaters. But, at the same time, you see that a lot of these guys take it easy on the field. If you want to play like Dravid or Kumble, you can never take it easy till you retire.

Do you think the present team can give a fitting reply to Wasim Akram by winning the World Cup next year?
It’s a very good team. But, we need to see team effort on a regular basis, which we are not seeing right now. You cannot win a World Cup just on the basis of a couple of individual players. You have to play like a team, just the way Australia play. But I hope we win the Cup this time.