India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja today responded to Kapil Dev's "money making current players arrogant" remark, which he made in an exclusive and now viral interview with THE WEEK.
In the interview, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain said that the money that came with the Indian Premier League has made the players arrogant. However, Jadeja, while talking to reporters ahead of the third and final ODI against the West Indies, dismissed Kapil Dev's remark when it was brought to his attention by the media.
"I didn’t know when he said this. I don’t search too many things on social media. See everyone has their own opinion. It’s nothing like that. Everybody is enjoying their game and working hard.”
Pointing out that the team is giving their best, Jadeja said, “Players are not taking their place in the team for granted. Whenever they are getting chances, they are giving their 100 per cent and trying to win games for India.
“Such questions crop up when India loses a game. This is a good bunch of boys, this is a good group. Nobody is arrogant. Everybody is representing India. We are working hard and playing for the country. There is no personal agenda,” he added.
In the interview, Kapil Dev said, “What’s good about the young players is that they are very confident. The negative part is that they think they know everything. They think they don’t have to seek advice from anyone. An experienced person can always help, even if he has not played the modern game.”
"Sometimes, when too much money comes, arrogance comes. These cricketers, they feel they know everything,” he added.
Explaining how IPL changed the things around in the Indian cricket, Kapil Dev said, “Look, change only comes when money also comes. I always feel money is very good; it gives you confidence. At this stage, the cricket board has the responsibility to look after them. They come from humble backgrounds; sometimes, when you get too much money, you get spoiled. Everybody can’t handle that. You need guidance; the cricket board today can hire people and give them classes.”
