Timing And Flexibility Key - Mickey Arthur

Timing And Flexibility Key - Mickey Arthur

Mickey Arthur.

©Action Images / Scott Heavey

As teams around the world try to get to grips with the new batting power plays, South African coach Mickey Arthur says that the key to getting it right is to get the timing right and be flexible.

The new rules allow the batting side to choose when a power play can be taken, during which time only three fielders are allowed outside the ring for a period of five overs.

“We have discussed all the various scenarios and there is no doubt that you have to be flexible,” Arthur said. “You also have to back the gut feeling of the batsmen in the middle who are best placed to make the call. They can sense when the timing is right.”

Arthur does believe, however, that in the majority of innings, especially when chasing, the best plan is to leave it towards the end of the innings.

Australian captain Ricky Ponting revealed after the match in Hobart that he had wanted to take the power play when he and Shaun Marsh were batting but hesitated as he wasn't sure what the dressing room wanted the team to do.

With the series tied at 1-1, South Africa will name their team for the third One Day International on January 23rd at the last possible moment with Wayne Parnell back into contention after jarring his neck attempting a catch in the second Twenty20 International in Melbourne.

© Cricket World 2009