Just a few hours left for the finals of the ICC Champions trophy to begin and fans have already scheduled their Sunday. Today India will be playing against New Zealand for the ICC trophy. Ahead of the match, a video of Virat Kohli practicing for the game is going viral.
“A look into Virat Kohli’s preparation,” ICC has captioned the video of Kohli practicing. “Now he’s had his practice against pace against spin. One of the things he’s so good at across formats is his rotation of strike. That is what he’s practicing in this net. After he hits every ball he’s saying one dot two trying to envision where the fielder is,” says the commentator.
“Virat Kohli’s mindset is on another level! Visualizing fielders, calling runs, and perfecting his game this is what greatness looks like!,” writes one user.
As both the teams prepare hard for the clash, let’s understand what goes in the preparation for the match.
How do cricketers prepare for big matches
Cricket is not merely a skill game but also one of strategy, perseverance, and mental resilience. Success in large matches isn’t only talent but also preparation, discipline, and the winning spirit. Be it the ICC World Cup, a high-pressure Test series, or the IPL final, cricketers undergo tough preparation schedules to deliver their best.
Fitness is crucial
Fitness is essential for a cricketer since the game requires agility, stamina, and explosive strength. Players undergo personalized fitness training involving strength training, particularly to build lower-body strength for big shots, quick bowling, and fast reflexes. Cardio exercises such as running, sprinting drills, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are part of the regimen to increase stamina. Yoga and stretching prevent injuries and ensure optimum performance levels.
Net sessions
Batsmen train against pace and spin bowlers to learn under varying conditions. Bowlers practice accuracy and variations. Teams set up match conditions to test strategies under pressure. Fielding exercises such as fast reflex catches, direct-hit training, and diving drills are performed to improve fielding.
Mental conditioning
Besides physical fitness, mental fitness is also most important in a high pressure game. Most teams hire mental coaches to assist players to cope with pressure and remain motivated. Meditation and breathing exercises calm the players down. Visualization techniques such as visualization of various game situations are used by players to gain confidence and enhance decision-making.
Strategy
Cricket is more like strategic planning. Captains and coaches devise game plans, including field placements, bowling changes, and batting orders. Players engage in studying opponents’ strengths, weaknesses, and past performances.
Nutrition
A balanced diet keeps the players energized and hydrated throughout the games. They include a protein-rich diet with lean meats, eggs, and plant proteins to aid in muscle recovery. Electrolyte beverages are part of the diet to avoid dehydration in long games. Practice is important, but sleep is also taken care of; Sleep is essential for muscle recovery and mental acuity.
