In international cricket, the days of warm-up exercises are long gone. Instead, teams now play games like soccer or foot volley before moving on to the important portion, which is skills training.
Prior to the net session, the Black Caps engaged in a unique and entertaining activity game that featured both soccer and rugby, the national sports of New Zealand, ahead of their highly anticipated T20 World Cup final versus hosts and favorites India.
Additionally, it was given the peculiar moniker “Donny Ball” in honor of Chris Donaldson, the team’s strength and conditioning coach, who first presented it to the players. The three teams in the game, each consisting of five players, would be confined inside a square composed of fielding cones.
One rugby ball and one football (soccer) ball will be provided to each squad. The rugby ball and soccer ball would be simultaneously kicked by one player from each team on a half-volley randomly in the direction of any of the other two teams.
The player must leave the court if he stumbles or falls while catching the football or rugby. Ultimately, the winning side is the one with the most players on the court.
“Yep, it’s rugby and soccer ball to be caught on the full without fumbling. It’s called ‘Donny Ball’ named after Chris Donaldson, our strength and conditioning coach,” PTI quoted a member of NZ support staff as saying.
Although the support staff described it as a “fun warm-up game,” the activity also aims to enhance reflexes and focus simultaneously. Despite training in the sweltering midday sun, the New Zealand players appeared at ease. The net session began at full speed after the 40-minute session.
Off-spinner Glenn Phillips and captain Mitchell Santner were spotted bowling at the nets for a considerable amount of time.
