Sport leads to all-round growth in children: Brian Lara

Brian Lara is the only batsman in the history of cricket to create the record for the highest individual Test score twice in his career. Born in Santa Cruz, Trinidad and Tobago, Lara excelled in multiple sporting disciplines, including football and table tennis. Despite playing in Trinidad and Tobago's junior soccer and table tennis sides, Lara believed that cricket was his path to success, saying that he wanted to emulate his idols Gordon Greenidge, Viv Richards and Roy Fredericks.

In a freewheeling chat with DNA's Kanchan Srivastava, on the sidelines of the Global Education and Skill Forum in Dubai on Sunday, Lara talks about the need for sports in schools and the educators that influenced him growing up. Following are excerpts from the interview:

Your thoughts on the current Indian cricket team?

I have stopped watching cricket. I prefer not to answer questions pertaining to the sport.

What are views on the concept of global citizenship? Do you think it champions diversity and inclusion?

The Global Citizen concept is unique concept. Its important that we unite as it will help resolve a number of issues in the world. Any positive process that brings us together is welcome.

How has education changed over the years? Do you notice visible shifts in the sector?

Teachers across the world are doing all they can to ensure a good education is the top priority for children. When I dropped out of school, it was a different era. We have had more attentive and supportive parents and siblings.

Things have changed. Social media has emerged as the key influencer for students. There are bigger distractions for children. I find that this generation of young people are battling loneliness. They need support and attention from teachers.

Why should sports be made a part of the school curriculum?

Children need sports, even if they are inclined towards academics. Engaging in sports from a young age will ensure physical and mental well-being. Sports will equip kids with the necessary tools to face academic challenges, and provide all-round development.