Fielding coach hails Indian stalwarts' experience on field
Subhadeep Ghosh highlighted how Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma use their experience to enhance their fielding.
India fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh praised the team’s sharp standards on the field following their opening ODI victory against New Zealand, highlighting how early anticipation separates stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the rest.
Speaking ahead of the second ODI, Ghosh lauded India’s disciplined execution after restricting the opposition to around 180, crediting a combined effort of tight bowling and sharp fielding.
"We did well in the first ODI. We took some good catches, picked up wickets and backed it up with excellent ground fielding," he said on the eve of the second game.
"The intensity was very good. When you restrict the opposition to around 180, it reflects not just good bowling but also quality fielding," Ghosh added.
Ghosh specifically highlighted the role of positional experience and game reading, explaining how veteran star Virat Kohli consistently reads situations early.
"I think anticipation is extremely important. The more time you spend in a particular fielding position, the better you become at reading the game," he explained.
"Virat has fielded at cover and point countless times, so he knows the trajectory and path of the ball, as well as how it is likely to travel after impact. He reads the situation slightly earlier than others, and you can see that in his execution," he added.
He similarly praised Rohit Sharma’s swift instinct during a crucial run-out in the first match. Gathering a gentle nudge on the leg side, Rohit attacked the ball from mid-wicket and executed a sharp underarm throw to run out Daryl Mitchell.
"As far as Rohit is concerned, I think he anticipated that the ball would go towards square leg during that run-out," Ghosh said.
"He wasn't moving straight; he was already shifting slightly towards square leg. That early anticipation allowed him to execute the skill perfectly. The more familiar you become with a particular position, the quicker you are able to anticipate what is going to happen. That's what makes the difference," he added.
With conditions varying across grounds, the fielding coach stressed the need for rapid adaptability on tour, noting that sharp footwork and spatial awareness remain central to India's preparation.
"When you travel to different countries, adapting to new conditions is always a challenge," he said.
"The ground dimensions vary, the weather can be cold, and these are aspects we regularly discuss in the dressing room."
"In terms of ground dimensions, when you field in a particular position, observing the batters and understanding where the boundary rope is becomes important. Your first step is crucial because it allows you to cut down the angles and cover the ground more effectively."
Heading into the upcoming match, the fielding coach reinforced the importance of maintaining an adaptable mindset across the squad.
"With optional training sessions, it ultimately comes down to your mindset. I always emphasise the importance of having the right mindset, both individually and as a group," he concluded.
Series Schedule:
First ODI: 4 November, Auckland (India won by five wickets - DLS method)
Second ODI: 7 November, Wellington
Third ODI: 10 November, Hamilton
Fourth ODI: 13 November, Mount Maunganui
Fifth ODI: 15 November, Mount Maunganui
