Rain Halts Play in Kanpur Test, Players Focus on Fitness and Strategy
Rain and wet outfield conditions can be a major hindrance for outdoor sports like cricket. When matches are disrupted due to weather, players must find ways to manage their time effectively. Former India pacer RP Singh provides insights into how cricketers utilize these weather-induced breaks.
During the second day of the second Test between India and Bangladesh, persistent rain and a wet outfield prevented any play at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. The teams remained in their respective hotels, with no chance of play resuming.
Despite the setback, India remains confident of pushing for a result in the remaining three days, provided the rain abates. In the meantime, players engage in various activities to stay focused and maintain their fitness.
According to RP Singh, many players use the downtime to focus on personal tasks and physical conditioning. “Most players continue doing their fitness work, even while sitting in the dressing room,” Singh said. “They keep ticking off all the boxes.”
Players often try to achieve their gym targets during this free time. Some do cardio, while others focus on weights. They utilize this period to complete any pending tasks related to their fitness regimen.
While players do enjoy their leisure time, they never lose sight of the job at hand. “Cricket is their primary objective, and everyone stays focused on the game plan,” Singh added. “In such situations, strategies keep evolving with every passing minute.”
On the opening day of the Test, India’s decision to field first under overcast conditions paid off. Akash Deep claimed two quick wickets, removing Zakir Hasan for a duck and trapping Shadnam Islam LBW. Bangladesh began to rebuild through a steady partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mominul Haque, but Ravichandran Ashwin intervened, dismissing Shanto for 31.
At the close of play on Day 1, Bangladesh stood at 107/3, with Mominul unbeaten on 40 and Mushfiqur Rahim on six runs.
