R Sridhar says “Azhar of 1985 to 1990 would have been a brilliant fielder even now”

R Sridhar, Team India’s former fielding coach, believes Mohammad Azharuddin would have been a fantastic fielder in current times, whether standing close in or outfield. Sridhar was a member of the Hyderabad team alongside Azharuddin. During his playing days, the former Indian captain was regarded as one of the best all-round fielders in the country.

Sridhar worked as a fielding coach with Ravindra Jadeja, widely regarded as the best fielder in the current Indian team.

“It is difficult to judge across different eras and fielding judged by different standards. In the ’80s when Ajju bhai (Azharuddin’s nickname in Indian cricket) made his debut, there was no fitness culture in Indian cricket. It kicked in only in the late 90s and Ajju bhai was a stand-out because of his athleticism and because he had great hands, good throw. Probably the bench-mark was different.” he said

“Jadeja is someone who is pleasing to the eye even when he is chasing a ball to the boundary. He is cut above rest in world cricket. So was Azhar during his time. Azhar of 1985 to 1990 would have been a brilliant fielder even now, whether slips, close-in or being lightning in the outfield.” he added

Even at the end of his international career, Azhar remained agile and athletic, pulling off some spectacular receptions and run-outs.

Rahul Dravid

Slip fielding is an important feature of cricket, especially in Test matches. After the departures of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, India struggled for a while to find decent slip catchers, bu under Sridhar, players like Cheteshwar Pujara and Rohit Sharma have grown into capable fielders.

“With practice, comes confidence and also knowledge of that position which brings in consistency. Obviously, being a certainty helps (smiles). When you are a certainty in the team, it helps you become a better slip fielder. That’s why we had Pujara, then Virat, then Rohit, who is an outstanding slip fielder. The right person standing at the right place brings consistency. That’s part of planning and preparation.” Sridhar said

Sridhar’s illustrious career with the Indian squad came to an end after the T20 World Cup 2021 in the United Arab Emirates.

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