Master Class Session 5
Feb 19 2007
Mastering the pull with V V S Laxman
Playing the pull shot and elegantly at that comes to only a rare few. The boys had the opportunity to pick up pointers first hand from one of India’s most stylish and elegant batsmen, V V S Laxman. Walking onto the ground as the boys practiced their skills in the nets, Laxman seemed captivated. He soon gathered the boys around him and asked them about their backgrounds, how they were initiated to cricket and how the game became a part of their lives. But before sharing his experience with the pull shot, Laxman was eager to watch the spinners in action and even had a word or two with the fast men. The boys watched intently as Laxman explained the nuances of the pull shot. When it came to putting the learning to practice, the boys took it seriously. But there was plenty of room for camaraderie and merriment, showing just how close the boys had become in the space of a month. |
Sukhvir received the most cheers and jeers and he came off looking more like a batsman than a bowler, much to his delight. Shahid, Amiteshwar and Samandeep made a good start in scoring points off the coach for each of their shots. But Rahil Sheikh showed he had a penchant for the pull shot as well.
The boys once again lent their voices jeering in jest at Mohammad Abbas knowing fully well that a pure batsman could undo their chances of being the best among the lot on the day. But Abbas’ time had come and it was little wonder then that he received the deserved accolade from Laxman, a decision no one refuted.
Meanwhile, the press that had gathered at the academy questioned Laxman about his non-selection in the recently concluded series against West Indies. He told them that he did not want to discuss the issue. However, despite the sour note, Laxman enjoyed his day at the academy as evidenced by his effervescent smile.
