The Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour reckons that the bowlers must be allowed to use something to shine the ball otherwise it will put batsmen into an enormous state of advantage. There’s a raging debate over banning the traditional practice of applying saliva to shine ball in the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic. In its stead, the ICC is contemplating to make ball-tampering legal in order to restore balance.
During a chat with Times of India, Rathour said, “If you are not allowed to put anything on the ball to shine, then yes, it could be an advantage for the batters. But if you can use your sweat, or if the ICC allows some artificial stuff to shine the ball, then the difference would not be too big. As long as it is going to be the same for all the teams, it should be fine.”
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There are also fears that the coronavirus-forced layoff means the cricketers will take more time to be back at their best. ICC also reckons that bowlers will be more prone to injury on return to play and therefore the governing body has issued specific guidelines. When asked whether batsmen will take more time than the bowlers to get their rhythm back, Rathour replied in the negative.
Rathore also felt that since the players are already following customized fitness routines, it won’t be long before they are all ready for international cricket.
The Indian batting coach explained, “The good thing is that most of the players have been managing to train well during the lockdown. Their fitness routines are being monitored closely by the trainers and physios. So, we are hoping that whenever the outdoor sessions start, it will be a matter of a few weeks of practice and then they should be ready to start playing some practice/domestic matches and then on to international cricket.”
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Rathour also says playing behind closed doors won’t ideal but all precautions required for the safe return of cricket are necessary.
