Not overtly disagreeing with the underlying need for skills, but consider how and when modern pilots gain those necessary to manage the situations encountered today. What is the experience base in crosswinds, and in what range of circumstances; are we now required to fly closer to the limit ?
How many operators restrict crosswind exposure to Captains only, or severely restrict FO to mild conditions.
How often do Capts really get tested; oh the simulator, but how realistic is that. Simulations cannot adequately stress-test limiting skills because like pilots they lack programming for the complete range of situations, or the finesse to replicate them.
For the average line pilot, how many exposures, what range of conditions - every crosswind is different - particularly for turbulence, and then at what point in their career is a sufficient standard achieved.
The likelihood is that many pilots have yet to fly to the limits of the aircraft, and probably haven’t as yet defined the limit of their judgement or skill level.
And even for those who have flown at the limit, and are aware of their flying capability, there is always one more crosswind on a dark rainy night with a short runway.
“Don’t criticise them; they are just what we would be under similar circumstances.”
– Abraham Lincoln