India’s dominant 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test has solidified their position at the top of the World Test Championship standings. As they gear up for the second Test in Kanpur, India’s fielding coach, T Dilip, has been reviewing the impressive catches from the first match in Chennai, highlighting the team’s commitment and skill in the field.
Dilip, in a video shared by BCCI, lauded Virat Kohli’s practice habits, emphasizing the intensity he brings to both training and matches. “With Virat Kohli, what you see is what you get. 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 shared.
The fielding coach also discussed some standout catches from the first Test. One notable catch was taken by KL Rahul in the slips, demonstrating his exceptional 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,” Dilip explained.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, a young talent, also impressed with a remarkable catch, which Dilip described as one of the best he’s ever seen. “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 praise from the coach. “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 highlighted again in another catch. “Getting his fingers under the dipping ball and getting his timing right to the forward jump at mid-on,” Dilip said. His ability to judge the ball’s trajectory and perfectly time his jump adds to his reputation as a reliable fielder.
As Team India prepares for the second Test in Kanpur, the players’ fielding skills are set to play a crucial role. With the guidance of their dedicated fielding coach and the high standards set by seniors like Kohli, India looks to continue their winning streak and further cement their top spot in the WTC standings.
