CHILDREN FRENZY ABOUT CRICKET

CHILDREN FRENZY ABOUT CRICKET

18-MAY-ENG 1

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

SASARAM---------------------------Moving beyond the screens of mobile phones and televisions, the passion for cricket has now shifted directly to the playing fields. As soon as morning breaks, groups of children armed with bats and balls gather at the sports ground in Dalmianagar. The situation has reached a point where academics are taking a backseat, and every street and household is abuzz solely with talk of fours and sixes.

Locals observe that, in the past, the craze was to watch matches on television sets at home. Now, mobile phones have taken over that role. The moment a child wakes up, he watches Virat Kohli's shots on YouTube; and the instant he returns from school, he sprints straight toward the playing field.

**The Balance Between Sports and Studies is Disrupted:** According to teachers, children's concentration levels in the classroom are dwindling. Homework remains incomplete, and performance in tests is on the decline. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, one parent remarked, "My child asks, 'What is the point of studying? After all, didn't Dhoni become a great man simply by playing?'"

The scene at the playing field remains the same day after day. One child jumps for joy after hitting a six, while another hangs his head in dejection after getting out. The emotions associated with victory and defeat are clearly visible on the children's faces.

A cause for concern is that many parents have left their children's future entirely to "fate." They believe that engaging in sports will keep their children away from bad company. However, experts warn that not every child can become a professional cricketer. Closing off the option of formal education poses a significant risk to their future.

Sports expert Rajiv Kumar states, "Cricket itself is not a bad thing; it teaches discipline and teamwork. However, parents must establish a rule: 'Homework first, then the Helicopter Shot.' Even Dhoni and Kohli are educated individuals; one cannot make it to Team India solely on the strength of talent." For the time being, the rhythmic sound of bats striking balls and the boisterous chatter of children at the Dalmianagar grounds serve as a clear indication that, here, cricket has effectively become the primary 'subject' of study.