Why is Arshdeep Singh judged so harshly?

Arshdeep Singh, the young left-arm quick hailing from Punjab, has found himself under the scrutiny of cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike. Despite his undeniable skill set and potential, he often faces harsh criticism.

This raises the question: why is Arshdeep Singh judged so harshly? Let’s explore some of the factors contributing to the intense scrutiny surrounding his career.

Early Hype and Enormous Expectations

Arshdeep Singh burst onto the cricketing scene with raw pace and an ability to swing the ball both ways. This early promise earned him the label of the next big thing in Indian fast bowling. While such adulation can be motivating, it also comes with a significant burden.

Every performance is scrutinized under the weight of colossal expectations, and any slight dip in form can lead to amplified criticism. In a cricket-crazy nation like India, where the sport carries deep nationalistic sentiments, underperforming players often face harsh judgments from fans and pundits.

Unfair Comparisons and the Quest for the Next Legend

Indian cricket has a rich tradition of exceptional fast bowlers, including legendary figures like Kapil Dev, Jasprit Bumrah, and Zaheer Khan. Arshdeep’s left-arm swing naturally invites comparisons, especially to the iconic Zaheer Khan.

However, such comparisons can be both unfair and limiting. Every bowler possesses a unique style, strengths, and weaknesses.

Judging Arshdeep solely against the yardstick of his predecessors fails to acknowledge his distinctive skill set and his journey of development. The burden of living up to the expectations of becoming the next legend can be daunting.

The Influence of Social Media and the Culture of Trolling

The advent of social media has brought cricket closer to fans, but it has also created an environment where negativity and trolling thrive. Arshdeep, like many other athletes, has become a target for online abuse and vitriol, often for minor lapses in performance or factors beyond his control.

The relentless cyberbullying that some players endure can have a profound impact on their mental well-being and confidence, subsequently affecting their on-field performance. It’s essential to remember that players are human beings and should be treated with respect and empathy, regardless of their form.

The Forgetfulness of Past Successes

In the world of cricket, the spotlight can be unforgiving. Fans and critics often have short memories, forgetting past achievements when faced with current failures.

Arshdeep’s occasional struggles or bad spells can overshadow his successes, leading to swift and harsh judgments. It’s crucial to recognize that every player goes through phases of highs and lows, and it’s part of their growth and learning curve.

In conclusion, the journey of Arshdeep Singh serves as a stark reminder of the pressures and challenges that young talents in the world of cricket face.

As fans and enthusiasts, it is our responsibility to acknowledge these challenges, appreciate the progress made by these players, and provide constructive feedback and support. Arshdeep’s talent and dedication are undeniable, and with continued support and a focus on his development, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Indian bowling attack for years to come.