THINKING THREE OVERS AHEAD
Every dismissal is a checkmate planned moves in advance. Every batsman is a puzzle to solve.
The Opening Moves
Setting up batsmen over multiple overs
- ▸First over: Establish line and length, study footwork
- ▸Second over: Introduce subtle variation in pace
- ▸Third over: Change angle or trajectory
- ▸Fourth over: The trap is set, execute the plan
Field Placement Chess
Every fielder is a piece on the board
- ▸Slip and silly point: For the turning ball
- ▸Short leg and leg slip: For the straighter one
- ▸Deep mid-wicket: Tempting the big shot
- ▸Cover: Protecting the drive, inviting the mistake
The Mind Games
Getting inside batsmen's heads
- ▸Eye contact: Establishing dominance
- ▸Verbal chess: Calculated conversations
- ▸Body language: Confidence that unsettles
- ▸Pattern breaking: Never predictable
FAMOUS CHECKMATES
vs Steve Smith
11 times
The ultimate chess match between two analytical minds
STRATEGY
Varied his pace and trajectory, never letting Smith settle into a rhythm
"Smith thought he decoded me. I had another code."
vs David Warner
12 times
The nemesis - dismissed more than any other batsman
STRATEGY
Exploited Warner's aggressive instincts with subtle variations
"Aggression without patience is just a wicket waiting to happen."
vs Alastair Cook
9 times
Left-hander specialist - mastered the drift trap
STRATEGY
Coming around the wicket, drifting into the pads, then spinning away
"Left-handers think they have an advantage. That's when I have them."
vs Kane Williamson
8 times
Best vs best - mutual respect, fierce battle
STRATEGY
Patience vs patience, waiting for the smallest mistake
"Against Kane, you don't get wickets. You earn them."
"The game is chess. He always wins."
Every wicket is the result of a plan executed to perfection.