IPL 2020: Vijay Dahiya praises Ricky Ponting’s method of preparing fast bowlers ahead of IPL 13

Ponting ensured that players don't have to push themselves too much in the challenging weather conditions in UAE.

By Salman Anjum - 13 Sep, 2020

Having played nearly decades of international cricket, Delhi Capitals head coach Ricky Ponting understands the importance of workload management and thus he focussed on preparing fast bowlers steadily ahead of the IPL 2020.

Players are back into the thick of things after five months of Coronavirus-induced hiatus, and Ponting ensured that they don't have to push themselves too much in the challenging weather conditions in UAE.

"How Ricky Ponting has planned the nets sessions is good, he's focused on preparing the fast bowlers steadily and we have also brought in some net bowlers to make sure there isn't much workload on our players going into the season in these tough conditions," Vijay Dahiya, Capitals’ chief of talent scout development, quoted as saying in a team press statement.

"I think it makes a huge difference when you have people in your coaching staff who have played the sport before. It generally helps them think like an athlete and also helps with the players getting to learn a lot from them, and getting that mentality also," he added.

Dahiya said that the team has put in "optional nets sessions and have given freedom to players to slowly get back into rhythm."

"That has resulted in the players doing well in training already. Our planning has been such that these players can stay in rhythm during and towards the end of the season as well - that is the most important thing that they are fresh both mentally and physically throughout the season," he said.

The 13th edition of Indian Premier League will kick-start on September 19. Delhi Capitals will open their campaign against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium a day later.

 

By Salman Anjum - 13 Sep, 2020

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