Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has spoken out against the growing ‘superstar’ culture in Indian cricket, emphasizing the importance of players remaining relatable to common people. Ashwin, known for his articulate opinions on the game, stated that cricketers should be seen as sportspersons rather than celebrities or actors, as their primary role is to represent the sport and inspire the next generation of players.
“We are cricketers. We are not actors or superstars. We are sportspersons, and we must be someone that the common people should resonate with and can compare themselves with,” Ashwin remarked in a recent discussion. His words highlight the increasing commercial and media-driven image of cricket, where players are often treated as larger-than-life figures.
Ashwin, who has had a long and successful career with Team India, believes that the achievements of players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and others should be normalized rather than constantly celebrated as extraordinary. He suggests that the focus should shift towards teamwork and collective success rather than elevating individuals to demigod-like status. His perspective aligns with previous comments made by Gautam Gambhir, who has also criticized the ‘hero-worship’ culture in Indian cricket.
The rise of social media, brand endorsements, and constant media attention has played a major role in creating this superstar image around cricketers. While their success and performances deserve recognition, Ashwin argues that they should still be viewed as professionals rather than unattainable idols. He believes young and aspiring cricketers should be able to relate to their heroes, drawing inspiration from their hard work rather than seeing them as unreachable figures.
Indian cricket has always had an emotional connection with its fans, and the admiration for players has often turned into intense fandom. While passion for the game is understandable, Ashwin’s point raises an important question about how cricketers are perceived and whether their image should be kept more grounded.
As the game continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether cricket will shift towards a more balanced approach in the way players are idolized. Ashwin’s views provide valuable insight into the challenges of fame in modern cricket, reinforcing the idea that cricketers should be appreciated for their dedication and skill while remaining relatable to the millions who look up to them.
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