Leadership & Teamwork
WHEN PRESSURE STRIPS AWAY PERSPECTIVE: A LESSON FOR LEADERS & COACHES
By Rahul Kapoor
"India Vs England
1st Test Match
Post Match Press Conference"
Reporter’s Question:
“Coach, talking about the positives… Rishabh Pant, two centuries. How was it to witness that knock from Rishabh and, of course, being the vice‑captain, being among the leaders in this group, how he has taken that responsibility?”
Gautam Gambhir’s Response:
“There are three other centuries as well. These are
big positives as well. Thank you.”
He then added: “I would’ve liked if you said there was
a hundred from Yashasvi, from Shubman on debut as
captain, and from KL. And two from Rishabh. So five
centuries in a Test is a great start, to be honest.
Hopefully the question could have been better.”
My Reflection:
As leaders and coaches, we are often under immense pressure. But that pressure must not cloud our ability to recognize individual brilliance, especially when it emerges in difficult moments.
Yes, it’s a team sport. Yes, the match was lost.
But grace is not reserved for victory alone.
- When we deflect genuine appreciation, we dim a player’s morale.
- When we publicly brush aside performance, we reduce the respect people have for our leadership.
- When we correct others with condescension, we reveal more about our state than theirs.
A calm, composed, and inclusive response could’ve gone further. A simple, “Rishabh’s knocks were fantastic, and so were the others - proud of the batting effort overall” would’ve elevated everyone.
In leadership, the real test is not the scoreboard, it’s how you carry yourself when the scoreboard isn’t in your favour.
Would love to hear your views..