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As the Indian cricket team prepares for the highly anticipated three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, the focus is not just on perfecting their batting and bowling. Fielding, a critical aspect of any game, has taken center stage in their training sessions as well. The team is leaving no stone unturned, knowing that a tight fielding unit can make all the difference in saving valuable runs, whether by cutting off quick singles or preventing unnecessary extras like overthrows and byes.
T Dilip, India’s trusted fielding coach, held an intense session with the players, emphasizing the need for precision and agility on the field. The drill session saw the players performing under high pressure, designed specifically to sharpen their reflexes and accuracy ahead of the series. Dilip’s primary focus for the day was on mastering two specific fielding drills that would help the squad prepare for the Bangladesh challenge.
In a video shared by the BCCI, the team was seen practicing run-outs with exceptional concentration. In this drill, Dilip rolled the ball along the ground, and players like Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Riyan Parag had to pick it up swiftly and hit a small net target. The focus was on getting the body aligned and throwing with rhythm rather than brute strength. Before the drill, Dilip gathered the team in a huddle and gave his instructions: “Get your feet where you are throwing. I’m not focused on intensity today; what we need to work on is rhythm and flow. Once we hit that, we’ll move on and take 15 catches.”
The next exercise involved catching practice, with the team honing their ability to take high-pressure grabs. Under the watchful eye of head coach Gautam Gambhir, the players took turns catching balls lofted in the air. Gambhir was hands-on during the session, offering feedback and encouragement, notably praising Abhishek Sharma for his quick reactions. “Shabash Abhi!” Gambhir called out, a sign of the camaraderie and motivation within the squad.
Dilip, alongside assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, facilitated the catching drills by hitting balls for the players to intercept. The session reached an exciting climax when Ravi Bishnoi pulled off a remarkable diving catch, earning applause from his senior, Hardik Pandya, who gave him a nod of approval for the effort.
As the countdown to the T20I series continues, Team India’s dedication to sharpening every aspect of their game, including fielding, sets a promising tone. The series will kick off on October 6 at the newly-built New Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior, where India hopes to start strong against Bangladesh.
