Former England cricketer Mark Ramprakash has reignited the debate over sportsmanship in cricket, citing a crucial lesson he learned from Australian coach Justin Langer: "Never shake hands too early." The remark comes amid a furore over a recent drawn Test match that left fans and pundits divided.
Ramprakash, a respected figure in English cricket, revealed that Langer's advice during their time together at Middlesex had a lasting impact on his approach to the game. "Justin taught me the importance of fighting until the very end," he said. "Even when a draw seems inevitable, you never concede until the final ball is bowled."
The Controversy Explained
The discussion stems from a recent Test match where players shook hands early, abandoning the possibility of a dramatic finish. Critics argue this robbed fans of potential excitement, while defenders claim it was a pragmatic decision given the match situation.
Ramprakash's comments have added fuel to the fire, with many now questioning whether modern cricket has lost some of its competitive edge. "There's something to be said for making your opponents work for every run, every wicket," he reflected.
A Lesson in Mental Toughness
The former batsman elaborated on how Langer's philosophy shaped his career: "It wasn't just about gamesmanship - it was about developing the mental resilience to compete in all situations." This approach, he argues, separates good players from great ones.
As cricket continues to evolve with new formats and changing attitudes, Ramprakash's reminiscence serves as a timely reminder of the sport's traditional values. The debate over when - and if - to shake hands early looks set to continue dividing opinion in dressing rooms and commentary boxes alike.
