- Saiman Das
Jonty Rhodes Interview: Jonty Rhodes is a South African professional cricketer who played in the Test and One Day International (ODI) format. He is regarded as one of the greatest fielders of all time and was the first South African to take 100 ODI catches.
In a recent interview, he was asked about fielding, it’s techniques, the importance of good fielders and to name the World’s top 3 fielders.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN INGREDIENTS OF A GOOD FIELDER?
There are two techniques needed to be a good fielder. Firstly, cricket is a straight-line game, while fielding needs the ability to move sideways. Secondly, one needs to have good anticipation which means the fielder should be ready to catch every ball.
WHO ARE WORLD’s TOP 3 FIELDERS?
At the moment, there is only one, and that is Ravindra Jadeja.
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Ravindra Jadeja is an Indian international cricketer who is a left-handed batter and bowls left-arm orthodox spin. He is currently a member of the gigantic Chennai Super Kings in IPL and was also the skipper for his team.
Ravindra Jadeja is a superlative batter and bowler who is well known for his fielding skills and his ability to lead the team to victory even in the most hopeless situations.
HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO BECOME A QUALITY FIELDER WHEN ONE HAS TO FOCUS SO MUCH ON BATTING AND BOWLING?
Just like batting and bowling, fielding is a part of daily practice and coaches are there to help the players. Being a fielding coach, I teach them about the rules of fielding and do not request them.
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WHY IS THERE A HUGE GAP IN THE FIELDING QUALITY IN THE DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL CRICKET?
Cricket is a game of habit that requires regular practice. The key is to upgrade coaches at the domestic level so that youngsters have a good grip on fielding from a young age.
IN THE IPL, THERE ARE GAMES, BOTH HOME AND AWAY. HOW CAN PLAYERS REMAIN FRESH IN SUCH A HECTIC TOURNAMENT?
Flying pan India makes a long day, maybe 6 to 7 hours, which makes the players feel tired. To avoid such a situation, we discuss with the trainers, management, and counselors how can we maximize rest time which would otherwise cause distress to players.
The South African legend has been appointed as the fielding coach of Lucknow Super Giants for IPL 2023 which is led by KL Rahul. Rhodes, with his marvellous fielding skills, has set such a standard that is tough to surpass by any player.
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