Goa’s batting great Swapnil Asnodkar is guiding India’s future generation of batters as NCA batting coach at the ongoing camp for under-16 boys in Cuttack. The camp, which started on 17th April, will conclude on 11th May.
Former Rajasthan Royals opener and IPL winner Swapnil, who has a Level 2 BCCI-NCA coaching qualification, spoke with www.thegoancricketer.com.
Q&A
TGC: Congratulations on the NCA assignment and the opportunity to make your mark on the future generation of Indian batters. As a batting coach, what defines your approach ?
SA: I believe in keeping things simple; to make the basics stronger and always having a positive approach.
TGC: What are the essential elements that need to be integrated into the batters of U-16 group?
SA: They have the talent, but I need to polish their skills to make them better. They need to understand why certain things are necessary even if they do not like it, but those inputs will help them in the long run. The need to make them mentally strong, is also being addressed.
TGC: How is the approach of the U-16 players now compared to your times?
SA: Today’s players have a lot of exposure to television and also the internet, so they are being driven towards T20 format.That is why, they are keen on stroke-play and power-hitting as compared to our days when following the basics, was prioritised and hitting in the air was not allowed. So, today’s players are seen taking more risks as compared to our times.
TGC: What’s your message to U-16 players in Goa?
SA: Have the hunger to keep learning good things by speaking about the game to your seniors or watching your fellow-mates. Do not allow your self-belief to go down at any point of time. And most importantly, be disciplined, dedicated and honest to accept your mistakes so that you can work on them rather than giving excuses and blaming others. So overall, be fearless and just keep your feet on the ground and do not allow success to go to your head.
