BGT: Bangar and Pujara Provide Strategies for Team India to Tackle Head at MCG
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New Delhi, Dec 22 (NationPress) As Travis Head poses a significant challenge for India ahead of the Boxing Day Test scheduled for December 26 in Melbourne, Sanjay Bangar and Cheteshwar Pujara have provided valuable advice to the visiting team on how to restrict the left-handed batsman from accumulating runs.
Following a modest score of just 11 runs in his first innings of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Head has impressively scored 89, 140, and 152 in his subsequent innings. His 140-run performance was crucial in securing a ten-wicket victory for Australia at the Adelaide Oval.
Previously, Head had scored centuries against India during the 2023 World Test Championship final and the ODI World Cup final, contributing to Australia’s triumphs. Bangar, the former batting coach for India, recommended that the team adopt a round-the-wicket bowling strategy when Head first comes to the crease.
“If he finds success in the initial 15-20 balls, then you should switch to a round-the-wicket approach, targeting the fourth stump or off stump. If this doesn’t yield results, quickly transition to over the wicket, adjusting your fielders, including a deep third man,” he stated.
“Maintaining a line on middle stump is essential, along with occasional short balls. By implementing these tactics, you can pressure him significantly.”
“If he struggles to score easily, he will attempt to play differently. Against the short ball, his batting continues to evolve. With a deep third man, you create a catching opportunity. It's crucial to have deep square and deep fine leg as well, ensuring three fielders are in catching positions.”
“By this point, you will have restricted run-scoring. The Indian team must adhere to this strategy consistently. If you set a trap and exhibit some patience, Travis Head’s impact can be minimized,” Bangar explained in a Star Sports video shared on ‘X’.
Pujara, an experienced batsman who was part of India’s 2-1 Test series victory in Australia, emphasized the importance of maintaining tight bowling lines against Head.
“The bowling line is critical. Keep it aligned with the middle and leg stumps. Even when bowling round the wicket, ensure your line is aimed at the middle of the off stump. A well-placed line makes him uncomfortable. Additionally, for short balls, having a fielder in place is necessary.”
“It’s a game of variations; not every ball should be short. Most deliveries should target the stumps, with one short ball aimed at middle. If this approach is followed, the chances of success are significantly increased,” he added.
