Aussie paceman says new rule is killing reverse swing and making life difficult for bowlers
India has expressed its reservations about the ‘two new balls’ rule in ODIs that came into effect at the beginning of October. And former Australia pace bowler Shaun Tait seems to be on the same page.
Shaun Tait gives bowling tips to kids at the Hiranandani Foundation School in Powai yesterday. Pic/Nimesh Dave
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On Tuesday, Suresh Raina claimed that two new balls and only four fielders outside the circle are putting pressure on bowlers. Tait seconded this opinion. “It is a ridiculous rule to be honest. It takes the reverse swing out of the game. Bowlers like to use their reverse swing skills.
Bhuvneshwar (Kumar) bowls perfect reverse swing, but now we are not getting a chance to see it, as the ball doesn’t get old. Also, the ball stays harder throughout the match,” the 30-year-old said during the launch of first KOOH Sports Cricket Development Centre at Hiranandani Foundation School, Powai yesterday.
“When you had one ball, it used to get softer and it was hard for batsmen to get more power off the bat. It will be good to see the old rule brought back so that we will be able to see a lot of reverse swing especially in the subcontinent.
Also, the fielding restriction with only four fielders outside the circle makes a big difference. The challenge will only grow for the bowlers,” he added.
Tait meanwhile rated soon-to-retire Sachin Tendulkar above former Australia captain Ricky Ponting and West Indies legend Brian Lara. “I was lucky to play with Ricky Ponting and against Lara and Sachin. But when you talk about these three, I think Sachin is just above the other two,” he said.
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