Burnout: Only players can draw the line, says Walsh

Dubai, May 18 (UNI) Putting the onus of fighting burnout on cricketers, West Indian pace legend Courtney Walsh said the players had to be more responsible about their fitness and should know ''what suits them.'' ''The cricketers have to look after themselves. Fitness can never be acquired if someone is not taking interest in maintaining it,'' Walsh told ''Gulf News'' while responding to a query on burn out.

The West Indian star said players had to decide for themselves on their fitness levels.

''They should know what suits them and do accordingly,'' he said.

Walsh felt the Windies selectors should have opted for a younger captain instead of Brian Lara and added that the star batsman would have to work hard to motivate the team.

''It could have been better if a youngster was given the responsibility. But, Brian is a motivated performer and now it is his responsibility to turn these youngsters into a closely-knit unit and perform as a team,'' he observed.

Speaking of Lara's Indian counterpart Rahul Dravid, Walsh said it was too early to comment on his leadership skills but praised his role as a batsman saying that Dravid was a consistent performer.

''Rahul is a solid batsman and a consistent performer in every sphere. But I have not seen him lead the side and since I do not follow cricket much now, I should not comment on his leadership qualities,'' the legendary pacer said.

Walsh said Indians would miss the services of Sachin Tendulkar during their two-month-long tour of West Indies and that would give the hosts an upperhand.

''Indians are without Sachin Tendulkar. He is a master batsman, has the experience of playing on islands' wickets. He has the ability to change the game single-handedly. And we are playing at home, that is always a big advantage,'' Walsh said.

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