Fielding is important (17 March 1999)

17 March 1999

Fielding is important

Premasara Epasinghe

In cricket, it is easy to judge the value of a batsman who is piling on the runs or a bowler taking wickets. As you are aware, there are no facts and figures to support the real worth of an outstanding fielder. Yet, remember top-class fieldsmen are of untold value to any side. Without outstanding fielding, you cannot win matches. Even, if your side is a mediocre one, if you excel in fielding, you can be a champion outfit. Therefore, all coaches, must concentrate on fielding if they want to produce results.

So its high time that Sri Lanka squad concentrate more on fielding. If they do not improve their fielding they will fall by the way side.

The 120th Battle of the Blues will go down in the history of this series as a one where fluctuating fortunes favoured the two sides at different times and ultimately Thomians turned the tables and won handsomely.

All credit should go to Malshad Pieris (103) and Suranga Pieris (13.4-8-18-05).

It is unbelievable that Royal who scored 288 for 3, succumbed to paltry 80 runs in the second innings. If you analyze and see what was the turning point of this match - a lapse in fielding - a sitter missed by Royal skipper Thushan Amarasuriya off century maker Malshad Pieris when he was 03.

This changed the entire complexion of the game in favour of Thomians, proving that cricket is a game of glorious uncertainties. Class is permanent - form temporary

The decline and fall of the Sri Lanka's cricket in the recent past is mainly due to the poor standard of fielding. This is a vital area that they must brush-up before the World Cup 1999.

Two essential components of close catching are the physical process of catch involving the need for quick reflexes which can be improved by practice and mental preparation which includes alertness and concentration.

Experience is something very important in cricket. I feel that Sri Lanka World Cup squad should consist of experienced players and also talented youths combined. Selectors - watch out for Ranga Yasalal

Another highly talented cricketer that should be watched keenly by the selectors is Ranga Yasalal of Sebastianites, Moratuwa. He is one of the first pace-bowlers to be trained under Dennis Lilee at M.R.F. Madras. He did extremely well in England playing in a minor county last season by notching 1000 runs and capturing 100 wickets. Turning out for Sebastianites Ranga Yasalal is one of the most consistent run-getters in the premier domestic season now. This boy from S. De S. Jayasinghe M.M.V. Dehiwala is a dedicated player and I am sure that he will be an asset to Sri Lanka side in the future.

Source :: Daily News (https://www.lanka.net)