Thought For The Day – Monday 29^th January 2024

Memorably described by the radio commentary, the historic and resilient victory on Sunday for England men’s test cricket team in India, against a great and wonderful cricket team away from home, was another victory for “Bazball”.

This term, now in the English Dictionary,  refers to the style of cricket developed by coach, and former New Zealand captain, Brendon McCullum ONZM and captain Ben Stokes OBE.

By definition, this is not a term deliberately and neatly defined. It is more a set of attitudes, principles and values, an ethic and ethos, a spirit and culture, that is embraced.

This approach is characterized by a nurturing, positive and supportive team approach, with no fear of failure. It seeks to push the game forward positively with a resilient focus on winning, but with no regrets or fear or bad sportspersonship in defeat. Importantly,, there is a genuine commitment to public engagement and entertainment for the wider good and service of the game. 

Central to this, is a culture of hard work, growth, learning and praise, even for small things. Appropriate mental freedom and fun is encouraged, accepting players for who they are,  not getting bogged down in too much reflection or an over complicated message.

In many ways, this approach has been developed precisely in response to the struggles with anxiety and life challenges Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have experienced, giving perspective and a sense of duty. 

The approach is also adaptable, flexible and respectful to the situation.  But it is an appropriate  “can do”, “go for it”, “the glass is half full” supportive and inclusive attitude, which sees positive opportunities.

With three weeks until this half term, we aim to make positive progress together in our learning and in our life.