TIPS FOR CRICKETERS

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXXVIII, Issue 19959, 17 November 1934, Page 16

TIPS FOR CRICKETERS

CONDUCT ON AND OFF THE FIELD Important Factors A Napier cricketing enthusiast has written the following, which might well be taken to heart:— So much has been written on cricket—the game, the character builder, and its sporting possibilities, that there seems very little for one to add to what has already been published. However, there are one or two features that should become impressed on young players, and. perhaps, have not been touched on before. One is the conduct of the individual in respect to his side, his behavious on the field, his punctuality, personal appearance, his gear and genera] esprit de corps. Now, teams are frequently criticised for late starting. This is more often an individual lapse, and can be corrected by each player taking himself to task before the time of starting. It should not be the captain’s duty to hunt up his team. He has other more important matters to arrange. Every player should be on hand ready for tne call of his captain. Collect together and be where wanted, when wanted. This is up to the player, and is as much his duty as to bat, bowl, or field. Anyone can be punctual by taking trouble, or maybe practising a little self-denial of some sort. Go without a meal if necessary. Remember, it is for the side. Throw away the cigarette butt before going on the field. It looks rotten to see a team straggling on sucking “bumpers.” On the field, be alert—eyes on your captain or the bowler, ready to jump to any signal. Do not slouch, look your job. and hold yourself together. Take care of your persona] appear-ance-shirt, sweater, trousers ail fitting properly about your footwear. A cricketer travels on his feet. Boots, not shoes, should be worn, and should

be carefully chosen for comfort, ease and non-friction. See that they are properly laced, supporting the ankle, and. above all, clean them regularly. When going in to bat, see that your guards are properly fixed before you arrive at the pitch. Delays, to make some minor adjustment to clothing or equipment, are irritating and unnecessary. First and last, be a cricketer, and if you cannot be a cricketer, try and look like one. Others will be impressed by your cliort. and seniors should remember that the niors cr*. taking their tips from thrm.