Date:14/01/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2009/01/14/stories/2009011457612200.htm

Sport - Cricket

The impact of T20 game on fielding

Special Correspondent

BANGALORE: Robin Singh dwelt on the impact of Twenty20 game on fielding when he spoke on the opening day of the Specialist Skills coaching clinic at the National Cricket Academy here on Tuesday.

The veteran of 136 One-Day Internationals, who is the fielding coach of the Indian team, sees a trend away from specialists toward more allround fielders.

“You find bowlers are standing more in the circle and have to be more alert. The grounds are a bit smaller, so the ball gets to you much earlier and faster. It’s a new ball, so we try to do things with much more intensity when we practise,” said Robin Singh.

Robin gave many insights into his work with the national squad and said that Munaf Patel’s improved throwing had given him his “biggest satisfaction”. He also added that he used the ladder quite a lot and recommended the players to do a lot of skipping. He highlighted the mental aspect of fielding. “If you’re looking to read the game, fielding becomes that much easier,” he added.

Earlier, noted Australian bio-mechanist, Dr. Rene Ferdinand, discussed correct throwing techniques and NCA fielding coach, R. Sridhar, spoke on advanced fielding techniques. NCA strength & conditioning expert, Paul Chapman, spoke on fitness for fielding and wicket-keeping and Muthu Kumar explained the role of the physiotherapist.