Kapil Dev’s “arrogance” remark ignites controversy, Ravindra Jadeja responds defensively

New Delhi: In the aftermath of India’s defeat in the second ODI against West Indies, cricket legend Kapil Dev’s critical remarks targeting the Indian team have sparked a heated debate in the cricketing community. The 1983 World Cup-winning captain suggested that the influx of money through the Indian Premier League (IPL) has led to a sense of arrogance among the players, leading to their underperformance in ICC events.

Kapil Dev’s interview with The Week saw him express concern over the attitude of some players, stating, “Sometimes, when too much money comes, arrogance comes. These cricketers, they feel they know everything.”

In response to the veteran’s comments, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja came forward to defend the current squad, dismissing any notion of arrogance among the players. Jadeja, in a press interaction ahead of the third and final ODI against West Indies, stated, “I don’t think there is any arrogance in this team. Everyone is enjoying their cricket and everyone is hardworking. No one has taken anything for granted. They are giving their 100 percent.”

Jadeja emphasized that players have the right to express their opinions, but he believes there is no room for arrogance within the team. He also clarified that the players’ primary goal is to perform well for India, without any personal agenda.

Following the loss in the second ODI, the Indian team has faced criticism for experimenting with new combinations and resting key players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

We are definitely going to play our best cricket in the third & final ODI: Ravindra Jadeja #TeamIndia | #WIvIND | @imjadeja pic.twitter.com/4oRPC255n3

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 31, 2023