CRICKET.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2950, 23 November 1900, Page 3

CRICKET.

AUSTRALIAN AND ENGLISH

FIKI.IIISH

Discussing fielding, “Dux,” in the London “ Sportsman,” pens some observations that should prove interesting to Australians. For a few years past wc have (says the writer quoted), in the matter of fielding, been living in somewhat of a fold’s paradise. The rude awakening which came to us a year ago, when the last Australian eleven slowed us what could be done in this branch of the game, lias not as yet been succeeded by any -amendment on our- part. Let it be admitted that the Australians have got to be able in the (ield. In their own land they cannot lay the flattering unction to their soul that Father Time wdll come to their Del]). 'They do not soften down their failures by assuring themselves that “you can’t; get decent batsmen out on a wicket like this,” or ” that they will have to declare the innings closed soon if 1 hey want to win.” The Australians have got to get their opponents out; those opponents are adepts at staying -in; and, moreover, Australian wickets, a? a rule, assist the batsmen more

than English wickets. Not being a medical man, I dare not discuss Australian stamina j as compared with English stamina; but in this country few of us have ever seen the j Australians relax their efforts in the field. Fielding is essentially a matter of sustained effort, and I for one do not believe tha* the Australian has a greater innate capacity for catching or stopping a cricket ball Dm a an average Englishman. That he does so, j however, infinitely better, as a matter of fact, can scare— Guied. One result of a lengthened nm.-cc programme, and increased scoring, is that the famous batsman does certainly “ take an easy ” now and again whilst in the field. That is to say, v.-i'hout being obviously careless or inattentive, he does not strain every nerve. If people will but recognise the fact, one , cause of the wicket-keeper’s success is that in every ball That is bowled he sees a possible chance: and, even if enthusiasm held , no place in his composition, be is well aware , that lack of vigilance would quickly qualify him as a candidate for the hospital.