In the cricket world, the term credit chor (literally, credit thief), is used to describe people who are ‘guilty’ of taking undue credit for a team’s success unfairly at the cost of undervaluing the collective performances of his teammates. Having been associated with the likes of former Indian captain, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni, this label is now ready to embrace a new team that comprises budding athletes.
Instances of the “Credit Chor” Label
Virat Kohli
Detractors had called Kohli a ‘credit chor’ after India’s victory in the second Test against England at London’s Lord’s in 2021. His on field aggression and leadership attributes were said to be overrated, making the team effort look downplayed.
MS Dhoni
During the IPL 2023 playoffs, Chennai Super Kings players and management earned praise from Dhoni for helping them win. Nevertheless, some of his fans started sarcastically calling him a credit stealer which stirred up the debate about how much he contributed to the team’s victories.
Public Perception
‘Credit chor’ reflects the opinion divided cricket lovers:
Supporters’ View
According to fans, the accolades given to a captain like Kohli or Dhoni are justified because they are the ones who strategize and motivate the team to perform better.
Critics’ View
To detractors, cricket is a team sport and accentuating individual leaders beyond certain limits against the team’s contribution from all players is unfavourable.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Opinion on MS Dhoni
After Dhoni’s retirement from international cricket on 15th August 2020, prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote a letter to Dhoni appreciating him. PM Modi in the letter said Dhoni was unassuming, down to earth and had “humble beginnings” but was a “phenomenon”. Dhoni’s association with Indian cricket having originated with him, he was quick with words to elevate him by saying he was a cricketer who will be forever remembered for the special equation he shared with India’s armed forces.
Excerpts from PM Modi’s Letter
- On 15th August you posted a short video in your trademark unassuming manner, the video was enough to remain a long and passionate discussion point for the entire nation.”
- “Youth have revealed that your rise and conduct thereafter gives strength and inspiration to them especially in small towns.”
- Your calm head, regardless which hairstyle you sported, always remained the same whether you were a victor or a loser is a very important lesson for the youth.
The credit chor emphasizes that the accountability in team sports ball games isn’t that basic. It is important to appreciate that the collaborative effort of the whole team leads to the achievement and that leadership is necessary, but not sufficient. Another example of the influence a leader can have off and on the field is MS Dhoni’s recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
