Rahul Dravid explains reason behind decline of part-time bowlers

Indian cricket team's head coach, Rahul Dravid, voiced his concerns regarding a significant shift in the game of cricket. Dravid, the legendary batter known for his brilliant cricketing mind, highlighted how changes in fielding restrictions have affected part-time bowlers and the dynamics of the game.

Back in 2015, a pivotal change was made to the fielding regulations, allowing a maximum of only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle between the 11th and 40th over. Dravid believes this alteration has been detrimental to part-time bowlers, who were once renowned for their ability to bowl tight overs during the middle phase of the game.

"I think it could be because of the rule change. Suddenly you have gone from four fielders inside the ring to five fielders inside the ring. I think that has drastically changed the ability of part-time bowlers to be able to bowl in the middle phase," Dravid told press.

He recalled his playing days when five fielders were permitted outside the 30-yard circle after the 15th over. This used to allow bowlers more flexibility and a cushion to operate without worrying excessively about conceding runs.

“If you remember and mention all these names (Sachin, Sourav, Sehwag, Yuvraj, Raina) bowling in this phase, a lot of these guys started when there used to be only four fielders in the ring,” he added.

Dravid also acknowledged the role of two new balls, one from each end, as another contributing factor to the decline of part-time bowlers. With five fielders inside the ring during the middle overs, it has become increasingly challenging for these bowlers to find opportunities to hone their skills in actual match scenarios.

"Partly, it is because of two new balls, you have got five fielders in the ring in the middle overs. It's not that they are not bowling in the nets, a lot of bowlers do try, they bowl in the nets. But if you don't get opportunities to bowl in the middle then it becomes very difficult to develop your skill," he said.