Estimating the Presence of Anxiety Affecting Sports Performance of Professional Cricketers in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar District: A Cross sectional Study

Abstract

Background:Anxiety significantly influences sports performance, particularly in high-pressure situations like competitive cricket. This research aims to analyse the presence and impact of sports anxiety on elite cricketers in ChhatrapatiSambhaji Nagar District. Utilizing "The Sport Anxiety Scale-2" (SAS), anxiety levels among professional cricketers are assessed..

Objective: It is to evaluate anxiety's presence affecting sports performance and secondary objectives include identifying risk factors and assessing psychological well-being. Through a comprehensive review of literature, studies highlighting anxiety's impact on athletic performance are examined. Findings indicate a prevalence of anxiety among athletes, with adverse effects on performance, injury risk, and rehabilitation. Notably, anxiety levels differ across age groups, genders, and sports surfaces.

Methodology: The study employs a questionnaire-based approach using Google Forms, measuring anxiety through SAS.It is conducted through an observational design over six months, involves 88 participants aged 14-23, encompassing both genders. Ethical clearance is obtained, and participants meeting inclusion criteria are selected from ChhatrapatiSambhaji Nagar sports clubs. Data analysis involves descriptive statistics and graphical representation.

Main outcome measure:The Sport Anxiety Scale-2

Result: The relationship between anxiety affecting Sports performance is seen in more than 80% of cricketers in ChhatrapatiSambhaji Nagar.

Discussion:It underscores anxiety's adverse effects on professional cricketers, necessitating targeted interventions for improved performance and well-being.

Conclusion:The study concludes that anxiety significantly impacts sports performance, highlighting the importance of addressing anxiety through tailored interventions and support structures.

Limitations: Itinclude age restrictions, exclusion criteria, and geographical constraints, while future scope entails longitudinal studies, cultural comparisons, and intervention development. The research contributes to sports psychology by enhancing understanding of anxiety's impact on performance and advocating for tailored support for athletes.