5 reasons why captains are reluctant to enforce the follow-on

To crush the morale of the opposition

Cricket, and sport, in general, is a psychological phenomenon. Morale, much like momentum, has more impact in the game than visible to the naked eye.

Over the years, we have seen time and again that one great spell, one special innings or one great partnership has the ability to crush the confidence of the opposition.

Take the famous example of historic 2001 Kolkata test match. Australia came into this test with 16 consecutive test wins behind them and 1 up in the current series already with a comprehensive win in Mumbai in the first test match. Not to mention Aussies were playing their best squad ever. Team’s confidence was high and so was the morale.

But then, after being asked to follow-on, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid contrived one of the best rescue acts ever in the test cricket. The Aussies, those legendary Aussies with best bowling attack in the world, could not take a wicket all day.

It did a hefty damage to them psychologically. Australia looked baffled thereafter, rushed even. They could easily have played for a draw but they didn’t, and the rest is history.

England’s attempt at batting in the second innings looked more an attempt to punch Pakistan psychologically after latter’s famous win and upbeat celebrations at the Lord’s.