Losing the swing

If even one thing is out of place, a total breakdown is on the cards. That8217;s the reason somebody has to keep a constant watch on these swing bowlers. Someone who knows the art well should be around to monitor things. Besides, swing is an art that comes with years of practice. Why do you think Sreesanth above and Zaheer Khan left bottom are our best bowlers today, because what they bowl has been taught to them through the years and their technique suggests. Zaheer8217;s grip and release of the ball make it easier for him to improvise in different conditions. With Pathan, there8217;s been no coaching at all.

One can8217;t just walk up to Wasim Akram on an evening and learn swing bowling and come back. It takes practice and proper technique that has to be learnt. It is only then that a bowler can take advantage of the conditions.

8212;As told to K Shriniwas Rao