Crickky asks – “Does conscience play a part in selecting a captain who has cheated?”
The Influence on Young Admirers Whose Consciences Have Been
Nurtured By Good Parenting to Avoid Cheating At All Costs
Choosing to reinstate a player who has previously been involved in a cheating scandal as a captain can send a multifaceted message to the team, fans, and young players. This decision could be interpreted in two ways: it could be seen as a symbol of forgiveness and the opportunity for second chances, or it could be viewed as endorsing unethical behavior.
Young admirers often
idolize sports stars, viewing them as role models. The actions of these stars
can greatly shape their attitudes towards sportsmanship and fair play. When a
player who has cheated is reinstated as a captain, it sends a mixed message to
young fans about the repercussions of unethical conduct.
The Responsibility of Sports Governing Bodies in Safeguarding
Against Ethical Issues
Sports governing bodies,
such as those in cricket, have a crucial role in safeguarding against ethical
issues. Their duties go beyond merely selecting the best captain based on
skills and performance. They are also charged with maintaining the integrity of
the sport, which includes ensuring that the players’ actions align with the
sport’s values.
When a player is
embroiled in an ethical controversy, such as cheating, the governing body must
take suitable action. This could involve disciplinary measures, such as
suspensions or fines, and the implementation of stricter rules or guidelines to
prevent similar incidents in the future.
In the process of
selecting a captain, the governing body must take into account the player’s
behavior both on and off the field. A captain is not just a strategic leader
but also a role model for other players and young fans. Therefore, choosing a
captain who has been involved in an ethical controversy sends a message about
what the governing body values and tolerates.
While it is crucial to
offer individuals second chances, it is equally important to ensure that they
have shown genuine remorse and have taken steps to correct their mistakes. The
governing body must consider these factors when making their decision.
The Perception of Endorsing Cheating
Reinstating a player who
has been involved in a cheating scandal as a captain can lead to the perception
that the team endorses cheating. This perception can be particularly potent if
the player was involved in a significant controversy, such as the
ball-tampering incident involving Steve Smith.
The decision to
reinstate a player as a captain after such an incident communicates a message
to the team, fans, and the wider public about what the governing body deems
acceptable behavior. If not managed carefully, it can create the impression
that the governing body believes cheating is acceptable, as long as the player
is skilled or valuable to the team.
However, it’s important
to note that this is not necessarily the intention of the governing body. They
may believe in giving second chances, or they may feel that the player has
served their punishment and learned from their mistakes. Nevertheless, the
perception of endorsing cheating can be damaging to the team’s reputation and
the sport as a whole.
Therefore, governing
bodies need to be transparent and communicative about their decision-making
process in such situations. They should clearly convey their stance on ethical
issues and the reasons behind their decisions. This can help alleviate
misunderstandings and ensure that the values of sportsmanship and fair play are
upheld.
They need to explain to all of us where their consciences lie.
What are your thoughts? Feel free to join the discussion in the comments below.
