EAM Jaishankar Draws Parallels Between Cricket And Foreign Policy At Mohinder Amarnath's 'Fearless' Launch

At a recent book launch event, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar shared insights while celebrating the release of "Fearless," a memoir by the esteemed former Indian cricketer Mohinder Amarnath.

Jaishankar took this opportunity to draw fascinating comparisons between the realms of cricket and Indian foreign policy, highlighting how pivotal moments and strategies in cricket can mirror those in diplomatic relations.

One of the key highlights from Jaishankar's speech was his reflection on India's triumphant moment in 1983 when they clinched the Cricket World Cup. He emphasized, "I think nobody has any doubt that 1983 was the inflection point. It was not just the inflection point, but the man of the match of the inflection point.

"Pakistan won it at one point and Sri Lanka won it at one point. But nowhere else was it as big an inflection point as it was in the history of cricket. Because, if you look at India's role in world cricket after 1983, it fundamentally changed."

This victory not only marked a turning point in the history of cricket but also served as a metaphor for India's evolving stature on the global stage.

The External Affairs Minister delved deeper into the analogy between cricket and India's foreign policy. "I like to constantly compare the evolution of cricket in India with the evolution of Indian foreign policy, and with India itself," he remarked.

Jaishankar pointed out that both fields are highly competitive, but respect must be earned through performance and strategy. He cited the example of Clive Lloyd, who once did not hold back against the Indian team but later acknowledged their prowess by declaring a pitch unfit in 1983, reflecting the earned respect.

Jaishankar further explored the similarities between the two fields by discussing the strategic aspects of cricket that resonate with foreign policy. He noted, "It's far more like cricket. And it is like cricket because first, there are many players. Two, the playing conditions keep varying. Playing at home and playing abroad are very different.

"You are at the umpire's whims at times. There are many formats. And at the end of the day, a lot of it is about psychology, trying to outthink the other team, trying to get into their heads. That every time you go out there to do your business, it is actually that competitive spirit that you tell yourself, I have to win this."

This perspective illustrates the complex and dynamic nature of international relations and how a strategic and competitive approach is crucial. The minister also highlighted the importance of resilience and determination, both in cricket and foreign policy.

"So cricketers are great analogies to explain to people in very complex situations what they should be like in their behaviour. So in my own system, if I have to tell someone, hang in there. Take it on the chip. Whatever happens, stand your ground. You are the analogy I use," he explained.

This underscores the psychological parallels between the two domains, where maintaining composure and standing firm against challenges are essential.

Reflecting on India's current position on the global stage, Jaishankar commented, "Today's India is the India the world wants to play with and 'an India which is frankly good for global business, an India which sets standards, which tests other people's metal'."

This statement encapsulates India's rising influence and reputation in international affairs, mirroring its ascendancy in the cricketing world.

Moreover, Jaishankar touched upon the strategic nuances of dealing with neighboring countries, using Amarnath's cricketing technique as a metaphor for diplomatic strategies.

"You said you played them better because from the traditional side-on position, you now move to an open-chested position. I couldn't have found a better description for a Pakistan policy that time," he stated, indicating the adaptability and tactical shifts required in diplomacy.

Mohinder Amarnath, the central figure of the event, is celebrated not only for his contributions to Indian cricket, where he played a pivotal role in the 1983 World Cup victory but also for his legacy as the son of the legendary cricketer Lala Amarnath.

His career spanned two decades, during which he amassed 4378 Test runs and was recognized internationally with awards like the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1984 and the Arjuna Award.

In summary, the book launch of Mohinder Amarnath's memoir "Fearless" served as a platform for EAM S Jaishankar to articulate the profound connections between the strategies employed in cricket and those in Indian foreign policy.

Through this lens, Jaishankar elucidated India's journey on the international stage, emphasizing the importance of resilience, strategic adaptability, and the pursuit of respect in both arenas.