Matthew Hayden feels Ricky Ponting could be a good slip fielding coach for team India

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden feels that the current Indian team could rope in the services of Ricky Ponting to up their game in the fielding department. He feels that Ricky could be a good slip fielding coach for the men in blue. During the most recent Test series against Sri Lanka, India’s fielding woes was on display.

During the Delhi Test, the players in the slip cordon were seen dropping some easy catches. It is because of this reason that Hayden feels Ricky Ponting could be the solution to the India’s concerns. As per the quotes in the Mid Day, he also mentioned that a regular slip fielder must stay in the same position, else there is every possibility of him feeling uneasy at any other fielding position and vice versa.

“The cricket world hasn’t thought about a slip fielding coach, but if they need one, then it has to be Ricky Ponting. He was outstanding. One should not change fielders from their allotted positions. If Mr X stands regularly in the first slip area, he should be allowed to remain there only because in the process he will feel comfortable to stand in the same spot,” quoted Matthew Hayden.

“Ultimately, he will do personal adjustments to his fielding when he gets the opportunity to stand in the same position again,” Hayden added further.

Need of a slip fielding coach

During his playing days, Ricky Ponting was one of the finest fielders. He was athletic and agile whilst on the field. In the recent times, there has been a trend wherein the teams appoint different coaches specific to different roles. Hence, having a slip fielding coach does not really sound like a far cry in world cricket.