Ryan ten Doeschate addresses dew factor ahead of 3rd ODI
What's the story
India's ongoing three-match ODI series against South Africa has been marred by dew-related challenges. The series is currently tied at 1-1, with the final match scheduled for Saturday in Visakhapatnam. India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate spoke about the impact of dew on match outcomes, saying it can make a difference of 10-20%. Here's what the Dutchman had to say.
Dew impact
Dew's influence on match outcomes
"We're actually trying to put a number on it and it varies between 10 and 20% [in terms of] what a big difference it makes [to the result]," the assitant coach said to reporters on Friday. He added that their current statistical record is "one in a million" for losing 20 consecutive tosses. However, he remained optimistic about India's chances in the final match, saying they will eventually win a toss.
Preparation strategies
Team's preparations to combat dew
Ten Doeschate also spoke about the team's efforts to deal with dew and work on getting a premium score. "We are doing all the practical prep stuff, guys bowling with wet balls. Again, you know, like setting up our store to get a premium score, figuring out how to defend, what is best to bowl with the wet ball when there is dew on the grass."
Rule change
ICC's decision to limit ball usage
The ICC recently changed the ODI format by introducing a rule where only one of the two balls is used for the last 16 overs. This was done to prevent batsmen from having an advantage due to a harder ball that lasts longer. However, ten Doeschate pointed out that this change has its own challenges, especially with dew making one ball wetter.
Strategy adjustment
India's batting strategy amid dew challenges
Ten Doeschate also spoke about how India's batters are adjusting their target scores considering the dew factor. He said, "At the start of the first game, we thought 320 sort of par, and then we put a premium at 350." He added that they had similar discussions before the second ODI in Raipur where they aimed for a score of 360 despite knowing about dew's impact.
Timing effect
Ten Doeschate on earlier start time's impact
When asked if an earlier start time could balance things out, Ten Doeschate said it could reduce dew's impact. However, he acknowledged that there are many factors to consider such as broadcasting schedules. He also clarified that while they have all-rounders doing the job for them in ODIs, their selection process is based on picking the best XI for each format of cricket.
Information
The series is currently tied between India and SA
India won the 1st ODI in Ranchi. Riding on Virat Kohli's 135, India posted 349/8 in 50 overs. In response, the Proteas perished for 332. Thereafter, India scored 358/5 in Raipur. However, the visitors aced the chase and won by 4 wickets.