A Comparative Study of Self-Confidence and Competitive Anxiety between Rural and Urban Cricket Players

In this study, urban and rural cricket players' levels of self-confidence and competitive anxiety are compared. Psychological qualities often determine performance under duress, and cricket is a sport that demands a high level of mental preparedness. The mental talents and limitations of players may vary among areas due to differences in coaching, exposure, and facilities. Measurements of these characteristics, effects of demographic and socioeconomic variables, and the link between anxiety and self-confidence were the goals of the research. The study included 420 players, evenly distributed between rural and urban locations. Data were collected using standardised methods, including the Sinha's Comprehensive Anxiety Test (SCAT) and the Self-Confidence Inventory (SCI). The analysis included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, and regression. The findings indicated that players from rural areas exhibited greater self-confidence, whereas those from urban settings demonstrated a marginally better ability to manage anxiety. A significant positive relationship was observed, indicating that greater self-confidence may occasionally elevate performance pressure. Training exposure and facility availability substantially impacted confidence, while geography, income, and experience had lesser still significant impacts. The results underscore the need of integrating these features in the development of training and mental preparation programs.