What is taking guard in cricket
Cricket might seem like a complex game with its own terminology that can be daunting to the uninitiated. One term used often in cricket is “taking guard”. A crucial part of batting techniques, understanding what ‘taking guard’ means can help unlock deeper insights into this fascinating sport.
Definition of Taking Guard
Taking guard is one of the first things a batsman does upon reaching the crease before commencing his innings. This ritualistic activity in cricket helps orientate the batter on the pitch, establish their stance and position exactly where they want to face the bowler’s deliveries.
The batsman asks the umpire for a marker – usually referring to some line or stump – which they then use as reference points when lining up their stance. The desired marking depends on an individual player’s preference, typically it could be middle stump or leg stump.
The Purpose Behind It
This process serves several critical functions. Firstly, knowing that your body appropriately aligned to face incoming deliveries can greatly increase confidence at the crease and assist in better shot selection. You know precisely where your stumps are and how much room you have play around yourself.
Secondly, since pitches vary in size internationally, it helps familiarize oneself with new conditions and brings these variations into calculations while playing shots. Lastly, taking guard also prepares the batsman psychologically by helping them focus on playing each ball on its merits.
Types of Guards in Cricket
There are various types of guards a batsman can take depending upon personal preferences and pitch conditions:
1.Leg Stump Guard: Chosen by those whose batting technique involves stepping out of the crease and prefer seeing more of the off-side field.
Full Video in Youtube
2.Middle Stump Guard: Taken by players who favor being compact and believe in playing close to their bodies.
3.Two Leg or Middle and Leg Guard: Taken by batsman who prefer an intermediate guard between the middle and leg.
The Method
To take guard, the batsman uses his bat to mark a spot in line with one of the stumps. The umpire tells him when his bat is lined up correctly. During this process, it’s common for experienced players to survey the field placement, condition of pitch, anticipate type of deliveries etc., as a part of gamer’s strategy.
While these factors can change mid-innings, taking guard at least offers an initial understanding about playing conditions and mentally prepares the player for task ahead.
Cricket A Sport Of Strategy
By knowing how, why, and when ‘taking guard’ is done in cricket we start peeling back layers around the sport complexities and intricacies. Cricket isn’t merely about batting the ball hard or bowling fast; it’s a fascinating blend of technical skill, physical ability, mental toughness and strategic acumen which throws open avenues of infinite possibilities every time game is played.
From selecting correct guards according to conditions or modifying them based on developing match situations and adjusting your batting style accordingly – such nuances enrich our understanding of cricket beyond just runs scored or wickets taken.
In Conclusion
In summary, taking guard is far more than a simple orientation activity; it gives an insightful peek into a cricketer’s mind showing us his careful assessment of conditions, keen anticipation for what lies ahead and tactical blueprint transforming from thought into action right before your eyes marking out their battleground on pitch. It is imperative both for amateurs looking to learn game as well as seasoned fans intending to enhance their viewing experience.
