The art of cricket

This refers to the letter, ‘The science of cricket’ (March 3) by Fahim Siddiqui. The writer has described cricket as a scientific game. Rather, the game of cricket is an art based on science.
Take the example of footwork. Sir Worrel had such perfection in footwork that he was said to be dancing on his feet to tackle spinners and execute strokes. Likewise, in the art of timing of strokes, a batsman with little effort sends the ball to the ropes. Sir Don Bradman, Sobers and Richards were examples of the art of cricket. Majid Khan was called Majestic Khan in the United Kingdom for his excellent style. It is also a treat to watch fast bowlers. West Indies fast bowler Michel Holding was a spectacle to watch. The way slow bowlers spin the ball, deceive batsmen and guide the ball is a masterpiece of the art of slow-bowling. The art of fielding and wicket-keeping needs a lot of mastery. Of course, cricket is a vast and complicated game involving strategic planning and clever thinking, well thought-out and individual tactics based on science but ultimately it is its art that triumphs in the game.
Mahmud Ahmad Akhtar
Rawalpindi