Saikat Sengupta, an anaesthesiologist from Calcutta, has written a superb piece on why he's modelling his behaviour during this epidemic on how Sunil Gavaskar faced a hostile attack in a test match. Lots of lessons, with most of us currently handling this like a T20 match
As Gavaskar always says, the game is not to be won or lost over a few deliveries or overs. It's over sessions of plays over several days. This demands fierce fierce concentration and a certain discipline in approach. Covid will not finish in one lockdown!
It starts with the preparation. Gavaskar was meticulous in his preparation and his choice of equipment. He knew these small details were important, an uncomfortable thigh pad like an ill-fitting mask were distractions and dangerous. Prepare well and get your details right.
Give the first hour to the bowlers. Gavaskar was a master at seeing out that time when the ball was new and the pitch was doing a bit. We still know so little about this disease. Let's just take all precautions and play safe till we really learn exactly how this disease works.
Gavaskar was often followed by a fragile batting order, so a lot depended on him preserving his wicket. Therefore, he tried to minimise mistakes, as it could be very costly for his team.
Cut down on unnecessary risk, play safe cricket.
Finally, the time will come when we have the knowledge and the understanding to attack with vaccines. Go all out then, when the odds are finally with you.
We all need to channel our inner Gavaskar, and stay around for that win on Day 5!
You can follow @joybhattacharj.
Tip: mention @twtextapp on a Twitter thread with the keyword “unroll” to get a link to it.

Latest Threads Unrolled: