Shubman Gill, the rising star of Indian cricket, has reportedly outshone his teammates by topping the Yo-Yo endurance test with an impressive score of 18.7. This test was a part of the Men in Blue’s preparatory closed-door camp held in Alur for the upcoming Asia Cup. The camp, which includes a series of fitness and medical exams, is crucial for the players as it helps the management to gauge their fitness levels ahead of the tournament. The cut-off level for the Yo-Yo test is 16.5, a benchmark that has been increased from 16.1 since its inception six years ago.
While this achievement speaks volumes about Gill’s fitness and dedication, it also brings to light another controversy involving senior player, Virat Kohli. Kohli, who scored 17.2 in the test, revealed his score on his Instagram story. This act of sharing confidential information on social media did not sit well with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). An official from the BCCI was quoted saying, “Players have been informed verbally to avoid posting any confidential matter on social media platforms. They can post pictures while training, but posting a score leads to a breach of contract clause.”
Image Source – TimesofIndia
This incident underscores the importance of maintaining confidentiality and the thin line that players need to tread while sharing information on social media. With the advent of social media, players have found a platform to connect with their fans and share glimpses of their personal and professional lives. However, it is imperative to strike a balance and refrain from sharing sensitive information that could lead to unwanted consequences.
The BCCI also announced the 17-member Indian squad for the Asia Cup, which surprisingly did not include experienced leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal. The team is gearing up for a challenging series, starting with a match against arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2 in Pallekele, followed by a game against Nepal on September 4 at the same venue. The Asia Cup serves as a vital preparatory ground for the players ahead of the ODI World Cup, making it all the more important for the players to be in top-notch physical and mental shape.
As the Men in Blue gear up for the Asia Cup and subsequently the ODI World Cup, it is important for the players to maintain their fitness levels, and adhere to the guidelines and protocols laid down by the BCCI. This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a professional athlete and the need to strike a balance between sharing and oversharing on social media.
This incident involving Kohli and the BCCI also brings up the broader issue of players’ use of social media. In today’s digital age, social media is a powerful tool for athletes to build their brand, connect with fans, and share their experiences. However, it also comes with its share of challenges and pitfalls. Players must be cautious about the kind of information they share online and be aware of the potential repercussions of their actions.
In conclusion, as the Indian cricket team prepares for the upcoming Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, it is crucial for the players to focus on their fitness and adhere to the guidelines laid down by the BCCI. Sharing personal achievements and experiences on social media is great, but it is equally important to maintain a level of confidentiality and professionalism. The incident involving Kohli serves as a reminder of this delicate balance and the need for players to exercise caution while using social media.
