How do less educated cricketers start speaking fluent English as soon as they join Team India? Know why and how

Manish Gaidhankar
7 Min Read
Cricketer
How to speak good English?
Source : Social Media

How Indian Cricketers Speak Fluent English:

India has a population of more than 140 crores, so the path to reach the national team can be very difficult for a young cricketer. Most players reach this point through poverty and difficult circumstances. There have been many players who did not even complete their studies till 10th or 12th, but as soon as they come to Team India, they start speaking fluent English. So let’s know how even less educated cricketers start speaking good English after joining the Indian team.

This fact is shocking, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) keeps organizing English language classes from time to time to improve the personality of the players. Even such sessions have been organized for domestic umpires. It is claimed that the board pays a lot of attention to the personality development of its players. In the year 2015, BCCI even started a course in collaboration with The British Council to coach umpires in English.

MS Dhoni also used to have problems

There was a time when MS Dhoni also had problems speaking English. But Dhoni once said that he learned to speak English by watching others speak. When the interviewer and fellow cricketers spoke English, Dhoni used to listen to them carefully. There are many stories of Virender Sehwag and Harbhajan Singh too when they used to avoid giving interviews in English. But today not only Dhoni but old and new cricketers also speak clear and distinct English.

In simple and clear words, when there is an environment of English language around, then gradually other cricketers start getting a strong hold on English. But a video of Mohammad Shami went viral when he took Virat Kohli with him to translate his words into English. Many years ago, fast bowler Praveen Kumar used to take Rahul Dravid with him for English translation. But it is not that he has no hold on English at all. Actually, seeing the environment, Shami and Praveen must have also got the basic knowledge of English.

Cricket in India is not just a sport; it’s a way of life. As the national team competes on the world stage, players often come from diverse educational backgrounds. It’s not uncommon to see cricketers with limited formal education suddenly speaking fluent English once they join Team India. This transformation raises questions about why and how this phenomenon occurs.

The Power of Environment

One of the primary reasons for this linguistic shift is the immersive environment of international cricket. When cricketers join the national team, they find themselves surrounded by players, coaches, and support staff who predominantly communicate in English. This new environment compels them to adapt quickly, learning not only the language but also the nuances of communication within a professional setting.

Training and Support

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and team management often recognize the importance of language in enhancing players’ on-field and off-field experiences. Many teams now provide language training and support for players who may not be proficient in English. These initiatives range from formal classes to informal conversations, helping players build confidence in their language skills.

Influence of Senior Players

Mentorship from senior players also plays a crucial role. Established cricketers often take younger or less educated players under their wing, encouraging them to speak English. This peer influence can be significant, as players learn from one another, picking up phrases, terminology, and even slang used in the cricketing world.

Media Interactions

With the rise of social media and the need for public engagement, players are increasingly thrust into the limelight. Media interactions, press conferences, and promotional events require them to articulate their thoughts clearly in English. This necessity pushes players to improve their language skills rapidly, often leading to a noticeable fluency that surprises fans and commentators alike.

Cultural Exchange

Joining Team India exposes players to a broader cultural context, where English serves as a common language. Interacting with coaches from various backgrounds and participating in international tours allow them to practice and enhance their English skills continuously. This cultural exchange not only aids in language acquisition but also fosters personal growth.

Conclusion

The journey of less educated cricketers speaking fluent English upon joining Team India is a testament to the transformative power of environment, training, and cultural exposure. As they adapt to the demands of international cricket, these players evolve not just as athletes but also as communicators. Their ability to articulate thoughts and engage with fans and media adds to their overall persona, enhancing their impact on and off the field.

This evolution is not just about language; it’s about growth, adaptability, and the spirit of cricket that unites diverse individuals into a cohesive team. As they continue to thrive, these cricketers inspire others, proving that with the right support and motivation, anything is possible.

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