Bob backs his boys to the hilt | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Bob backs his boys to the hilt

None | BySubhash Rajta, Chandigarh
Oct 21, 2006 12:28 AM IST

Pakistan's resilience has been attributed to various factors, but Woolmer puts it down to sheer talent of players, writes Subhash Rajta

By beating Sri Lanka, Pakistan once again proved that they are most dangerous when pushed to the wall. This typical resilience of theirs has been attributed to various factors, but coach Bob Woolmer puts it down to sheer professionalism and talent of the players.

HT Image
HT Image

“They are very good cricketers and thorough professionals. They don’t let the external factors affect them once they are on the field, and the victory over Sri Lanka gives testimony to the fact,” said Woolmer.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

While praising the professionalism and the talent of his side, the coach also took the opportunity to dismiss the perception that his boys were not as intelligent as thought. He asserted that their simplicity does not mean lack of intelligence.

“They have high level of emotional and sporting knowledge. I agree, most of them have not been to those big universities but they are extremely good readers of the game and that’s what matters,” he said.

Citing another example of the professional attitude of the side, he said the players were gradually putting the dope scandal behind them. “Although no one would forget the dope scandal, which rocked the side at the most unfortunate time, in a hurry, the players know they are professionals and have to take everything in their stride to perform to their potential,” he said.

The coach also didn’t look too perturbed by the absence of their three top players. “These three would certainly be missed, but I have a lot of confidence in others,” he said.

He agreed that the victory over Lanka was a big morale booster, but he refused to get carried away with it. “We are happy but we have our feet firmly planted on the ground. This is just the beginning and we still have a long way to go to prove ourselves,” he said.

He, however, did not hesitate in stating that his team, especially the bowlers, would be even better than they were in the last contest. “The bowlers were not mentally prepared to play the game as the dope scandal broke at the eleventh hour. But they would be better prepared this time, especially with helpful conditions and the victory under their belt,” he said.

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Arvind Kejriwal News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Thursday, March 28, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On