The outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has halted all cricketing activities for over two months now. As cricket looks to resume, Team India’s bowling coach Bharat Arun has reiterated that Indian players will need at least six to eight weeks of training before any international game.
Meanwhile, cricketers are currently under the prevailing lockdown due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Their access is limited to only fitness training at home or inside their building complex. India were playing against South Africa when BCCI had to call off the series to curb the spread of COVID-19.
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Along with other cricket board, BCCI also revealed that they are planning to organise an outdoor skill-based training camp for the men’s cricketers from May 18. However, with the lockdown extended until May 31, BCCI had to cancel their plan and will have to wait until the fourth lockdown ends. Meanwhile, Bharat Arun has stated that the players will at least need six weeks to regain the shape for an international game.
“For a professional sportsperson, to be sitting at home doing nothing can be very frustrating. Not being able to expand that energy is like a curse. It can be boring, can be extremely monotonous. But there’s no choice and therefore it’s a challenge that has to be taken up,” TOI quoted Bharat Arun as saying.
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“The team management has identified that the cricketers will need camp lasting six to eight weeks to conduct this elevated training and optimum skill-based programme before they can walk out to play international cricket,” he added.
Furthermore, Bharat Arun revealed that he is constant contact with Team India fast bowler Mohammed Shami. The fast bowler from Bengal is currently in his village where he is training in his own grounds. Arun stated that Shami is working fine and he has asked him to continue with the schedule. Shami is currently a part of the Indian team across formats and hopes to cement his berth.
“He keeps sending me videos and I keep talking to him, motivating him “Tu bas aise hi practice karte reh. Tera ek do saal aur career mein add ho jayega (Just keep bowling/practising like this. You’ll add a year or two to your career going forward,” he added.
