Chappell raises burnout concerns

MUMBAI: Admitting that excessive cricket was a matter of concern, India coach Greg Chappell on Thursday asked BCCI not to overburden its champion players as it could lead to premature end of their careers.

"It is important for BCCI and others to understand that there is a huge investment in these players. They are champion players and you must not finish their careers by overburdening them," Chappell said at a press conference hours before the team's departure to West Indies.

Chappell said although at the moment the balance was pretty good, there was a need to be careful about breaks in between matches.

"The balance is pretty good with 30 odd ODI and 12-13 Tests every year. (But) it is important to get breaks at regular intervals. The break we have now is ideal. Though the five-and half month break Australia has now is a bit too long."

The Australian also said it had been tough to play Pakistan immediately after the home series against England.

"Playing the England series after the series against Pakistan was tough. We had 3-4 series packed together which was very demanding. Getting the balance right is important."

Chappell's views echoed that of Indian vice-captain Virender Sehwag who was pulled up by the BCCI for his comments on the burnout issue two days back.

The Board has clamped gag orders on players from speaking on certain issues, including burnout, to the media but the coach and the captain are free to express their views.