King has fitted nicely into Adrian's shoes

Source: Hindustan Times     Date: September 11, 2004

The three-week camp ended in Bangalore on September 6. It was one of the best training camps I have been a part of in my career.

 

The work regime was tedious but a must after the long break we had. It was well organised, well spaced-out and by the end of the day, every cricketer vouched that it was tough, but at the same time, satisfactory.

 

The focus in the first half of the camp was on fitness. For Greg (Gregory King), it was his first opportunity with an international side. The attention he got when he landed was something he may not have experienced before. But like a true professional, he quickly realised where his focus lies. He was quick to assess the fitness standards of the team and ascertain the training required for an individual to become better in the area he lacked.

 

In sport, everyone has his deficiencies and advantages and it’s very important for a trainer to spot that and try to improve on it. The shuttle runs in the camp were pretty severe but at the end of it, the aerobic fitness of every cricketer had gone up.

 

Cricket is a sport that requires short sprints more than long distance running, as we need to develop faster muscle movement. The shuttle runs aimed at improving in that aspect.

 

The attitude of the boys regarding fitness had changed in the time of Adrian (former trainer le Roux) and if we can maintain it over the next few years, we are going to make rapid strides as a team. We have seen the difference in our team in the last 12 months and this is one area of Indian cricket where we need strong goals for every individual.

 

The batting-bowling half of the camp was of six days. I must thank Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Kiran More for helping us during sessions. The video analysis they did with respective players will go a long way in helping the boys.

 

There were quite a few young fast bowlers in the camp who have attracted attention. Munaf Patel and RP Singh were special at the nets. I believe they are special talents and need to play at the top level soon. A long stint with Greg can help them a lot — he can work on their bodies, which in turn will help them bowl faster.

 

We have seen the difference in speed checks in the case of Nehra and Zaheer and I’m sure these new boys will gain an extra yard if well looked after.

 

The domestic season has started with the ongoing Challenger series. It’s a good opportunity for some newcomers to play with some class players and, at the same time, a tournament for the current international players to get into rhythm before the Kiwis arrive in our country at the end of this month.