The previous leader of the Indian team, Sunil Gavaskar, suggests that the Indian players might need to tweak a few things. These changes could improve their performance in the second Test, starting on January 3rd against South Africa at Newlands. He voiced this thought in Cape Town.
The former cricket player who is now a broadcaster advises the players to take late shots and alongside the line of the ball so they have enough time to choose whether to be offensive or defensive on a given delivery.
Following several Indian batsmen being out to the wicketkeeper or at slips over the two innings, Sunil Gavaskar made these remarks.
For those who don’t know, South Africa won the first Test against India by an innings and 32 runs. South Africa’s 408 runs were met with bundles out for 245 and 131 twice for the visitors. Only Virat Kohli (38 & 82) and KL Rahul (101) were reliable at the plate.
Sunil Gavaskar told Star Sports:
“There are a couple of things to look to get besides the line of the ball rather than behind the line of the ball. When you get beside the line of the ball, then you can allow the ball to pass by easily by dropping your wrist, but if you are behind the line, sometimes you drop your wrist, you’re gonna hit there (chin).”
Sunil Gavaskar
Sunil Gavaskar added:
“So, those are the couple of things they need to make the adjustment with. Try and play as late as possible because that gives you time to decide whether you want to play it or to leave the ball.”
Sunil Gavaskar
Irfan Pathan reveals the crucial factors for India batters to succeed in second Test against South Africa
Prior to the second Test match against the Proteas, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan offered some guidance to the Indian batting team. In order to address concerns with excessive swing motions, the 39-year-old encouraged the middle-order hitters to drill with fresh balls in the nets.
In addition, the former cricket player turned broadcaster urges the Indian players to utilize their feet carefully, in contrast to skipper Rohit Sharma, who was dismissed for five runs and a duck in his two innings.
Pathan stated to Star Sports:
“In South Africa, you give a lot of attention to the new ball. Ensure that the middle-order batters also practice with the new ball because it continues to move.
“So, when there are early breakthroughs, then we have to bat early and face the new ball. So, you get prepared, and apart from that, we’ve seen a lack of foot movements like Rohit Sharma. It could be because of fatigue or pressure.”
Irfan Pathan
He added:
“You need to pay attention to these things because you are not getting half volleys. The ball is bowled slightly away, which can trouble you due to lack of foot movement.”
Irfan Pathan
The Proteas lead India, they’ve won one game in the two Test matches. India needs to win this upcoming Test. Else, they face another series loss in South Africa. A Test series win in South Africa? They’ve never managed that before.
