The Sports
Psychology Blog
Today's Sports Psychology blog examines the mindset of the talented cricketer Kevin Pietersen. We ask whether Pietersen has what it takes to fulfill his immense gift.
Cricket: Kevin Pietersen - Confidence Or Arrogance?
It's
semi finals day in crickets Friends Provident Trophy. Hampshire are
hosting Warwickshire and Kevin Pietersen is at the crease. Bowling to
him is South African Tim Groenewald. They were both born in Natal. They
both attended Maritzburg College. From the start Pietersen tries to
dominate Groenewald. He's made eighteen when he tries to attack a decent
ball and hits an easy catch to Darren Maddy. He's played the wrong shot.
Has Pietersen's ego has got the better of him. Again?
Nick Knight in the Sky Commentary Box says 'That's what you get with Pietersen. It's the way he plays'. True. But is that acceptable? What about the quality of decision making? What about shot selection? What about putting aside the urges of the ego and playing for the team? What part do they play in his development as a player? It's a classic sports psychology dilemma.
For me these attitudes will ultimately mark the difference between Pietersen being a good player who sometimes touchness greatness, or a legend who leaves an indelible mark on the game.
The Sports Psychology Summary...
For Pietersen to leave his mark on the game, he must come to terms with his natural gift and it's purpose. Thus, is his gift of talent just for personal advantage, to provide entertainment and pleasure for others? Or to aid in the development and evolution of the game?
The truly greats eg Pele, Ali, Bradman, Bannister and many others, got this last part. They had the humility to match the quality of their talent. Decision making came naturally to them, because their ego did not tend to cloud their judgement. They knew that their talent was not just for their personal edification. It was a gift to give to the game.
If Kevin Pietersen comes to terms with this understanding, he has a chance of etching his name in the game's history. If not he will be remembered as a player who gave us great moments to remember him by; but, not a legacy that changed the game.
