Former Indian wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta recently spoke about the World Test Championship Final between India and New Zealand. The all-important final begins in a day’s time and will be played at The Rose Bowl Stadium in Southampton.
Ahead of the final, Dasgupta had some important pieces of advice for the Indian batsmen. Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former wicket-keeper mentioned that it was important that the batsmen kept their clarity of thought while dealing with the conditions in England. He also advised them to stick to their natural game and not force things too much.
“The first thing Indian batsmen need to keep in mind is their clarity of thought. People advise you to play your natural game, and I completely agree with that. Your natural game provides a basic structure to your game. Rohit Sharma’s most productive shot is his cut or pull off the back foot. That doesn’t mean you need to hit every ball if attacking is your natural game,” Dasgupta explained.
He further elucidated his plan by using the example of Rohit Sharma. The 44-year-old mentioned that Rohit needs to decide on an approach ahead of the final and has to stick to it throughout no matter the balls delivered to him. Deciding on a shot selection before hand can give the batsmen enough time and clarity.
“Rohit Sharma has consciously tried to stay away from driving the ball. He depends on the pull and cut shots. If you get a short-pitched ball, you have to go for it because you have to score runs at the end of the day. But if you aren’t getting the ball in your slot, you have to be very clear in your thought process and game plan that you will not play a shot. If a drive is not part of your game plan, unless it is a half volley or full toss, stick with it. That clarity of thought is very important.”
He also urged the batsmen to be absolutely rock-solid with their defensive plans. New Zealand’s bowlers are very disciplined and they will get minimal loose balls to latch on to. Patience will prove to be very important for the batsmen.
“The bat has to be within the body because if it goes outside your body, there is a chance of edging the ball,” Deep Dasgupta mentioned.
Dasgupta concluded by mentioning that the batters need to be mindful and have to respect the English conditions. They will get beaten every now and then but they cannot let that pull their confidence and faith in their natural game down.
