For W.I Cricket, Mind is the Matter
The past five to seven years have been full of prognostications and analyses, albeit incomplete, about what is wrong with West Indies cricket. Fingers have been pointed at the WICB, the players and even the fans; but we have all fallen short of proposing any sound and objective solution that can stand up to any sound scrutiny.
We yearn for the West Indies teams of the 70s and 80s when the rare chance of failed batting, for example, would be defended by tenacious bowling, and ultimate victory or, at minimum, a draw. Left to wonder the difference between the current crop of players and the victorious teams of the past, the first observation cited is usually lack of discipline, focus, desire, will, heart, and so on and so forth.
Either way, most of us who love and critique our players would agree that the level of talent has diminished, but is certainly good enough to perform at a much higher level and with a lot more consistency than they currently do. This leaves us, as well as the WICB, with the unenviable task of deciphering how to address a problem that is beyond the realm of physical repair.
The game of cricket, and sports in general, has changed significantly. It is a much more technical and sophisticated undertaking, and, to compete in this brave new world, we must not be afraid to take brave new approaches.
Coaches, and trainers can help with problems of mechanics and technique, and can provide some inspiration; but matters of mentality is a whole different ball-game. In fact, it is the real "test" of modern-day cricket. The aforementioned issues: discipline, focus, desire etc., are all fruits of good mental concentration and conditioning. How is this achieved? Well, concentration is an exercise of the mind, and, like anything else, practice will yield, if not perfection, good results at a minimum.
The best exercise that the mind can get is that of stillness, meditation and visualization. As simplistic and religious as this may sound, it is rather difficult for most people to do. Yet, it is by far, the most proven mode of mental strengtening and development. Do not take my word on this. Ask the experts in psychology, spirituality, and mind development. Ask the people from cultures and societies where this is a way of life and academic success is social staple. Go a step further and ask Viv Richards, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Sachin Tendulkar, Dr. Keith Black, Dr. Ben Carson, or anyone else who has tasted the fruits of meditation to become masters of their craft. If Bob Marley was alive today, he would probably have an Institute of this sort. But rather than writing a thesis on the subject, I will suggest that the WICB consult with a guru in this field.
Further, I suggest that the education ministries across the Caribbean begin to look at this subject for consideration for future incorporation into their curriculum. This way, not only will we have stronger and more focused minds in our cricket and sports in general, we will ensure that such minds are in every facet of the society at large.
Like King Short Shirt declared in a song: "We need a new kind of mind in a new and greater society."
* This article ws submitted for publication before the first Test match in Jamaica.