T Dilip, India’s fielding coach, reviewed the top catches from the first Test in Chennai, highlighting the team’s commitment and skill in the field.
Ahead of the next match, Dilip praised Virat Kohli‘s practice habits.
“With Virat Kohli, what you got is. There’s not much difference between the way he practices and he plays the game. Because the intensity at which he wants to go to the match, he always replicates in the practice session,” Dilip said in a video shared by BCCI.
Dilip also discussed the standout catches from the first Test. One impressive catch came from KL Rahul. He took a catch in the slips, showing excellent anticipation and skill. “KL Rahul’s catch in the slip was a good one as he followed the ball and caught it behind his bodyline. It was a great example of following the ball properly,” said Dilip.
Yashashvi Jaiswal also made a remarkable catch. Dilip described it as one of the best ever.
“It was one of the best you could have seen. Towards his non-dominant side, a really low, ball dipping in and he is running forward and the ball dipping fast. He took it with one hand, it was an absolute blinder of a catch, especially for a gully fielder,” he said. This catch showcased Jaiswal’s agility and hand-eye coordination.
Shubman Gill’s fielding abilities also received accolades. “Shubman Gill has terrific hands. Not only as a close-in fielder but also at in-field, out-field and an all-round very good fielder. He showed his awareness and composed himself, the ball was really dipping. And from short midwicket, he took a very composed catch,” Dilip noted. Gill’s skills make him a versatile player on the field, able to handle various positions with ease.
KL Rahul’s skill in timing and positioning was further highlighted. “Getting his fingers under the dipping ball and getting his timing right to the forward jump at mid-on,” said Dilip about another of Rahul’s catches. His ability to judge the ball’s trajectory and timing his jump perfectly adds to his reputation as a reliable fielder.
As Team India prepares for the second Test in Kanpur, the players’ fielding skills are sure to play a crucial role. With the guidance of their dedicated fielding coach and the high standards set by seniors like Kohli, India look to continue their winning streak and further cement their top spot in the WTC standings.
