CricketWhy Wiaan Mulder hates watching cricket
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**South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder Reflects on Frustration of Watching Cricket from the Sidelines**

**It has been 33 days since Wiaan Mulder suffered a finger injury while playing against Sri Lanka. The all-rounder missed out on crucial matches due to the injury, leaving him feeling frustrated at being sidelined and forced to watch the game he loves from afar.**

Mulder, who made his debut against the Lankans in February 2019, has had a stop-start career plagued by injuries. However, the appointment of Shukri Conrad as South Africa’s Test coach in January 2023 breathed new life into Mulder’s cricketing journey.

**The Frustration of Watching from the Sidelines**

“I hate watching cricket,” Mulder confessed to reporters. “Especially when you feel like you’re playing nicely and you could have filled some gaps that maybe the team needed.”

The injury sustained during the match against Sri Lanka at Kingsmead in November left Mulder out of action for several crucial fixtures. Despite being limited by a brace on his finger, Mulder expressed his frustration at not being able to contribute on the field.

**A New Lease on Cricketing Life**

The arrival of Shukri Conrad as the head coach marked a turning point in Mulder’s career. Conrad’s unwavering support and belief in Mulder’s abilities have been instrumental in boosting the player’s confidence. Mulder shared, “Shuks has backed me since he was my academy coach [in 2017]. It’s really nice to be backed by somebody who believes in me away from all the extra nonsense.”

**Overcoming Self-Doubt**

Mulder’s cricketing journey has been marred by self-doubt and external pressures. The all-rounder admitted, “In my heart, I wasn’t always sure I was good enough to consistently put in performances at this level.” However, Mulder’s time at Leicestershire from April 2022 to June last year saw him excel, scoring three centuries and taking 43 wickets in 19 first-class matches.

**A Shift in Perspective**

Working with Shane Watson and embracing a new mindset has transformed Mulder’s game. The Conrad effect has been evident in South Africa’s recent performances, with the team achieving success under his guidance.

**Looking Ahead**

Mulder’s injury setback has only fueled his determination to make a strong comeback. Despite missing out on recent matches, Mulder remains focused on contributing to the team’s success. He emphasized the importance of a supportive team culture where players uplift each other rather than compete against one another.

**Final Thoughts**

As Mulder continues his road to recovery, he remains optimistic about his future in cricket. With a newfound perspective and unwavering support from his coach and teammates, Mulder is determined to overcome challenges and make a meaningful impact on the field.

In conclusion, Mulder’s journey serves as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the power of belief in one’s abilities. As he navigates the highs and lows of professional cricket, Mulder’s story is a reminder of the passion and dedication required to succeed in the sport.

**The Impact of Mulder’s Return**

Upon Mulder’s return to the field after recovering from his finger injury, there was a noticeable shift in South Africa’s dynamics. His presence brought a renewed sense of balance and versatility to the team, as he seamlessly transitioned back into the playing XI. Mulder’s ability to contribute with both bat and ball added depth to the squad, giving the team more strategic options in crucial situations.

**Embracing a Holistic Approach**

Mulder’s time on the sidelines allowed him to reflect on his approach to the game and prioritize his overall well-being. The all-rounder emphasized the importance of mental resilience and physical fitness in maintaining peak performance levels. By working closely with sports psychologists and fitness trainers, Mulder adopted a holistic approach to his training regimen, ensuring that he was not only physically fit but also mentally prepared for the challenges ahead.

**Breaking the Injury Cycle**

Mulder’s struggles with injuries over the course of his career prompted him to reevaluate his training methods and lifestyle choices. By focusing on injury prevention techniques and incorporating specific exercises to strengthen vulnerable areas, Mulder was determined to break free from the cycle of setbacks. His commitment to injury management and recovery protocols proved to be instrumental in his successful return to competitive cricket.

**The Evolution of Mulder’s Game**

Under the guidance of coach Shukri Conrad, Mulder’s game underwent a significant transformation. Conrad’s emphasis on developing Mulder’s all-round abilities and fine-tuning his skills played a crucial role in enhancing his performance on the field. Mulder’s improved technique, strategic acumen, and mental fortitude were evident in his recent outings, solidifying his position as a key player in South Africa’s cricketing lineup.

**Mentorship and Support**

Throughout Mulder’s cricketing journey, the unwavering support of his coach, teammates, and mentors has been a driving force behind his success. By surrounding himself with individuals who believe in his potential and offer guidance during challenging times, Mulder has been able to navigate the complexities of professional cricket with confidence and resilience. The mentorship he received from seasoned players and coaches has been invaluable in shaping his career trajectory and instilling a sense of purpose and determination.

**Looking Towards the Future**

As Mulder sets his sights on upcoming tournaments and series, he remains focused on honing his skills, contributing meaningfully to the team’s success, and continuing to grow as a player. With a renewed sense of purpose and a clear vision for his future in cricket, Mulder is poised to make significant strides in his career and leave a lasting impact on the sport.

In essence, Wiaan Mulder’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, self-belief, and unwavering dedication. Through resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Mulder has overcome setbacks, embraced challenges, and emerged as a formidable force in the world of cricket. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and sports enthusiasts alike, illustrating the profound impact of passion, resilience, and unwavering determination in achieving success on and off the field.