Relationship Between Psychological Skills and Performance Among Cricketers in Pakistan: Mediating Role of Emotional Intelligence

This study explores the relationship between psychological skills and performance among domestic/international cricketers in Pakistan, highlighting the mediating role of emotional intelligence (EI). Purposive sampling technique was used in the study, permission to collect data was taken from the Pakistan Cricket Board, and data from 100 elite cricketers i.e. 50 males and 50 females who represented Pakistan's national side and domestic regions through Pakistan Cricket Board were analyzed through standardized tools i.e. Test of Performance Strategies (TOPS), Psychological Skills Inventory for Sports (PSIS) and Schutte Emotional Intelligence Scale (SEIS). Results indicate significant positive relationship between psychological skills and performance, with Emotional Intelligence enhancing the application of mental strategies under pressure. Males and elite-level cricketers exhibited higher psychological skills and emotional intelligence than their female counterparts having only regional experience. Limitations include self-reported data and a small sample size. The findings suggest integrating psychological skills training and emotional intelligence development into coaching programs to improve cricketers’ performances and decision-making.