[VIDEOS] "Hasnain, Musa, Naseem require that extra support to get them to the next level" : Ian Pont

[Ian Pont]

"Hasnain, Musa, Naseem require that extra support to get them to the next level" : Ian Pont

In an exclusive article for PakPassion.net, the renowned fast-bowling coach Ian Pont explains how through the establishment of a well-planned technical fast-bowling coaching programme across all levels and a player management system can Pakistan reap the full benefits of the enormous bowling talent that exists in the country.

There’s an opportunity and a necessity for the PCB to make a genuine difference to the fast-bowling stock in the country. What I am seeing time after time after time, is a young player with raw pace being elevated very quickly and then discarded at pretty much the same rate. Or a young fast bowler failing to fulfil his ability, talent and flair. Something is not working as far as fast-bowlers in this country are concerned, and this has been the case for too many years now.

Rather than attempting to understand reasons, there has been a tendency to keep returning to the old ways that don’t work, whilst much of the rest of the cricket world moved on from a decade or so ago.

This is a failing on at least two levels:

1. The management of a fast-bowling workload
2. The technical skills coaching for those players to become world-beating bowlers

I have previously applied twice for the Pakistan fast-bowling position but never heard back either time. Under Dav Whatmore, he had asked me to technically review some footage of bowlers and suggest solutions but I could not be involved in any official capacity. I have also been working in the Tareen Cricket Academy (TCA) in Lodhran, South Punjab, setting up a pace camp attended by players like Mohammad Ilyas. What’s been clear is that many up-and-coming pacers have had little or no exposure to good coaching. But Ali Khan Tareen is passionate about developing talent and at the TCA, he has started something that could be of a much wider benefit.

When I was National Skill Sets Coach for the ECB at Loughborough, we had an 'emerging Test bowlers' group and spent a 6 month period working them up as a group. Then I headed up a regional section in the South of the country to identify talent and help fix faults in actions right across the age ranges, from junior level to senior. Much of this work which was done some 15 years ago, has been the benchmarking process for making the most of talent discovered. Correct pathways for players, opportunities to learn about the mechanics of human movement & biomechanics, gaining an understanding of diet, nutrition and how to take care of their mental state. It's a role I have taken on with The National Fast Bowling Academy in Hertfordshire over the last 3 years to help scout and produce young talent.

When I see the outstanding raw talent of bowlers like Mohammad Hasnain, Musa Khan, Naseem Shah and many others what’s clear is that they require that extra support to get them to the next level. Hassan Ali, Mohammad Abbas - even Mohammad Amir - there are many things that could be done technically to increase their skill levels, control and pace. Each have things to work on: often it is feet misalignment, a collapsed front leg, not fully stretched arm pull or other things that eat away at consistency. Because it’s not just game time and opportunities which you need to become a better bowler, it’s the knowledge of how to get better which is equally important.





And if a bowler doesn’t know (or isn’t told) about his problems, they cannot rectify it. They will lose form or pace, and then get left out and drift away, rather than making these improvements and developing into world class talent.

The fantastic emergence of Shaheen Shah Afridi is great news for Pakistan cricket but what concerns me most is the management of his workload. He is bowling an extraordinary amount of overs and is likely not far away from a potential breakdown if not managed properly. He has a great, repeatable action but even the most efficient will wear out if overused.

What’s certain is that only by planning a technical fast-bowling coaching programme across all levels and a player management system, will Pakistan fans will be able to enjoy much of the fine young talent which is emerging from tape-ball cricket and into first-class cricket, PSL and beyond.

There is a reason Pakistan doesn’t have a Jimmy Anderson or a Stuart Broad, with around 1,000 test wickets between then and still playing international cricket. The game has moved on since the days of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis as players and Pakistan cricket should have taken the chance to do the same.

The results are now for all to see. You cannot hide from them. And if you keep on doing the same things, you will get the same results.

I was fortunate to have worked with both Dale Steyn and Shoaib Akthar. Shoaib graciously said nice things about me in his autobiography “Controversially Yours”. Dale of course, is coming towards the end of his career and whilst retired from international cricket, is still going in tournaments around the world.

I am very much looking forward to resuming coaching stints with TCA when we can get over the COVID situation and make a difference there. It would also be great to have the opportunity to make a difference at some level with a PCB pace programme, too.

 

[b.lesner]

I don't understand why Pakistan bowlers are going down from 145+ to 135 and indian bowlers are going up from 130 to 140

 

[Titan24]

I don't understand why Pakistan bowlers are going down from 145+ to 135

Which ones are you referring to? Shaheen and Hasnain both went upto 150+ kph in PSL. Shaheen was consistently touching mid high 140s in T20 series vs SA and even improved how to manage his pace in tests as well when he bowled with pretty high average speed in test. He was fastest bowler on show in terms of average speeds where Rababa, Northe and Ngidi were also present and his last spell in 2nd test was one of the fastest of the series. Management of fitness and pace in tests comes with time and Shaheen has been doing well on that side too.

If you are referring to Naseem Shah than he has recently had lower body injuries and every pacer coming off from an injury takes time to be in full rhythm and he was again bowling mid/high 140s kph in PSL when just recently. Same has been the case with Faheem who suffered a shoulder injury not too long ago, he was touching 140 kph previously, speeds went down after injury and he was seemed to be getting his rhythm back as well and was going into his regular zone of mid/high 130s kph in PSL.

 

[Titan24]

Really good analysis and both the main points he has raised regarding workload management and continuous development of skills should definitely be a priority as anyone who has been following Pakistan cricket will know that these issues have been there for over a decade now. Ian Pont has experience of working at different levels and position of bowling consultant at NHPC is currently vacant, so he should definitely apply for the role highlighting these points.

Anyone who has actually worked in a role at different levels would know much more about technical aspects which come into play for different bowlers and how to work upon them individually. Even if someone was an extremely successful bowler himself, handling oneself vs handling number of other youngsters with different body types, actions and dynamics requires a different toolset and experience.

If not for full role, PCB can consider experienced coaches like Ian Pont for seasonal contracts in national academy where he can work with the young fast bowlers.

 

[ataullah]

[MENTION=9]Saj[/MENTION] I think u should send this to wasim khan. This is what Pakistan cricket is crying out for. Its so frustrating the way they have been letting us fans down. On a side note Wasim Khan is a breath of fresh air but even he is criticised by the ignorant ones

 

[MenInG]

Surely there is something amiss when so many of our young talents are falling by the wayside?

 

[Saj]

Thanks for the write-up Ian.

Ian will you be applying for the NHPC role to replace Mohammad Zahid?

 

[Saj]

Under Dav Whatmore, he had asked me to technically review some footage of bowlers and suggest solutions but I could not be involved in any official capacity

Which bowlers were they and why did they want you to do this only behind the scenes?

 

[Ian Pont]

Which bowlers were they and why did they want you to do this only behind the scenes?

They were all the bowlers. .

At this time there was already a bowling coach in place, although not one who was a technical one. Dav was very keen to get the biomechanics lab going again I believe. This sadly never happened and so an opportunity missed I fear

 

[Saj]

They were all the bowlers. .

At this time there was already a bowling coach in place, although not one who was a technical one. Dav was very keen to get the biomechanics lab going again I believe. This sadly never happened and so an opportunity missed I fear

So they wanted you to do the analysis and work that the bowling coach was being paid for?

 

[Ian Pont]

Thanks for the write-up Ian.

Ian will you be applying for the NHPC role to replace Mohammad Zahid?

Having twice applied for roles with PCB and not having heard a single thing back, I don't see much point in applying anymore. The PCB have my CV I assume and of course I was in the PSL in year 1. I have a few of the current players on WhatsApp and interact with them as well.

The truth is a governing body can approach anyone they wish, so given I am not invisible I suspect they could choose to contact me if they are on the same page. I still plan to work with TCA in South Punjab so I will be in Pakistan at some stage regardless

 

[Ian Pont]

So they wanted you to do the analysis and work that the bowling coach was being paid for?

If that bowling coach isn't a technical coach then I guess so. People often hold the title of bowling coach, but that means different things to different people. A mentoring role from an ex-player is often seen as a coaching role, for example. My personal view is, unless you understand how to develop talent correctly by having an in-depth understanding of how to create a fast bowling unit, then much of what you do will be superficial.

Just because you put on a tracksuit doesn't mean you can make a difference.

 

[ask_analyse_act]

Naseem shah is a prime example and it is pretty obvious that his bowling action needs lot of correction, to make it smooth..

As Hasan Ali said in an interview recently , that correcting bowling actions , landing to the crease , follow through should be taught at under 16 level.. Similarly for the batsman, their stance , their grip everything they learn after they play a few international matches..

PCB grass roots level are totally unprofessional and they dont work enough to teach the basics of cricket..
It is also the reason why pakistans fielding for decades has not been upto the mark.

Ian Pont summarized the issue in his first few lines as quoted below.

What I am seeing time after time after time, is a young player with raw pace being elevated very quickly and then discarded at pretty much the same rate. Or a young fast bowler failing to fulfil his ability, talent and flair. Something is not working as far as fast-bowlers in this country are concerned, and this has been the case for too many years now.

 

[ask_analyse_act]

In my opinion Hasnain with his raw pace and height could have troubled the batsman in the tests in Aus and NZL but they didnt give debut to him instead they debuted Musa and Naseem shah.

Babar azam during the recent fallout with selection matters did point out this obvious problem of picking players out of the moon and then discarding them right away when they fail has been the problem for years atleast in the last decade or so...

When ppl say PCB doesnt back their players.. They start to back the players with less potential.

The 2 WWs are best bowlers from the game of cricket , no doubt about that.. Not all good bowlers are good teachers /coach of the game... After retirement they think they have played enough to coach the players and start to coach.. If that is so then in this world of cricket there would be more Australian and West Indian coaches now and more indian coaches in the next 20 years.


The game has evolved so much that they need to learn the basics right and technically sound... If they still think playing with jazba will win them games, then there is nothing to say.

 

[hitthestump]

Hi Ian. Are you basically seeing glaring oversights in the way Waqar is performing his role as bowling coach?

You say the game has moved on since his time. Could you elaborate on this for us?

 

[Ian Pont]

Hi Ian. Are you basically seeing glaring oversights in the way Waqar is performing his role as bowling coach?

You say the game has moved on since his time. Could you elaborate on this for us?

It is not for me to comment on another coach or their methods and I am not commenting either way. My point about any coach is they must be able to make a measurable difference in performance. A coach is there to fix faults, make improvements and be able to modify & help develop talent. This is a skill that comes from understanding the nuances of coaching, not playing. There's a saying: "A great horse cannot teach a jockey how to ride".

Since W&W's time the game has evolved into a far more scientific approach - whether it be technical, physical, mental, tactical or lifestyle. We work with statistics, science, S&C coaches, player management and multiple layers of inputs into developing sound talent these days. the mental side of the game for example, from supporting players when things are not working to helping them with role clarity and expectation, is one such thing that has completely altered during the past decade.

Coaches today are truly PROFESSIONAL (or should be) with a very deep understanding of their role and key skills. They are specialists like a surgeon and not like general practitioner. The very best coaches, with the knowledge of how to get the best from their students, make a difference in a relatively short space of time.

th eken to success is devising a system that works, devise planning to elevate skill levels across the board and populating it with coaches who can deliver on those plans.

 

[hoshiarpurexpress]

It is not for me to comment on another coach or their methods and I am not commenting either way. My point about any coach is they must be able to make a measurable difference in performance. A coach is there to fix faults, make improvements and be able to modify & help develop talent. This is a skill that comes from understanding the nuances of coaching, not playing. There's a saying: "A great horse cannot teach a jockey how to ride".

Since W&W's time the game has evolved into a far more scientific approach - whether it be technical, physical, mental, tactical or lifestyle. We work with statistics, science, S&C coaches, player management and multiple layers of inputs into developing sound talent these days. the mental side of the game for example, from supporting players when things are not working to helping them with role clarity and expectation, is one such thing that has completely altered during the past decade.

Coaches today are truly PROFESSIONAL (or should be) with a very deep understanding of their role and key skills. They are specialists like a surgeon and not like general practitioner. The very best coaches, with the knowledge of how to get the best from their students, make a difference in a relatively short space of time.

th eken to success is devising a system that works, devise planning to elevate skill levels across the board and populating it with coaches who can deliver on those plans.

Great observations and insights Ian.
What are your thoughts on Bharat Arun?

 

[Shahzad1985]

Hi Ian. Just wanted to ask your opinion on the run up issues that M Wasim Jnr was having for Islamabad United in PSL 6, not sure if you had seen the footage, but if you had do you think it’s a easily rectifiable issue or do you think it’s extremely odd for him to be selected for the National squad while everyone seen that he kept loosing his run upto the crease on several occasions on top of that his only played a handful of games in his first season in PSL 6?

 

[BreadPakoda]

Hi Ian, thanks for the interview. Do you think Naseem Shah has undergone changes in his action in the recent past? If yes, have those changes been effective?

 

[hitthestump]

It is not for me to comment on another coach or their methods and I am not commenting either way. My point about any coach is they must be able to make a measurable difference in performance. A coach is there to fix faults, make improvements and be able to modify & help develop talent. This is a skill that comes from understanding the nuances of coaching, not playing. There's a saying: "A great horse cannot teach a jockey how to ride".

Since W&W's time the game has evolved into a far more scientific approach - whether it be technical, physical, mental, tactical or lifestyle. We work with statistics, science, S&C coaches, player management and multiple layers of inputs into developing sound talent these days. the mental side of the game for example, from supporting players when things are not working to helping them with role clarity and expectation, is one such thing that has completely altered during the past decade.

Coaches today are truly PROFESSIONAL (or should be) with a very deep understanding of their role and key skills. They are specialists like a surgeon and not like general practitioner. The very best coaches, with the knowledge of how to get the best from their students, make a difference in a relatively short space of time.

th eken to success is devising a system that works, devise planning to elevate skill levels across the board and populating it with coaches who can deliver on those plans.

Thank you for the response. Very informative. Wish you the best of luck.

 

[Bewal Express]

Interesting read but none of the guys mentioned are going places ATM although IA Naseem isn't a lost cause. Although Hasnain looked quicker in the recent PSL, he still remains an enigma- the speed gun says 93mph but he never hurries the batsman, and the reason for that is twofold, he doesn't move the ball enough and the ball is seen throughout his action. At no point is the ball hidden from the batsman even for a milli sec and that means it's never out of the sight of the batsman. Musa is simply too small with a poor seam, with that seam he will get some tail with the older ball but not enough to threaten any decent players. Naseem has a decent seam but the ball doesn't move enough to beat the bat, and that is difficult to explain. He has also lost pace and he doesn't have the skill set to bowl at 85mph and take wickets.

 

[MenInG]

Interesting read but none of the guys mentioned are going places ATM although IA Naseem isn't a lost cause. Although Hasnain looked quicker in the recent PSL, he still remains an enigma- the speed gun says 93mph but he never hurries the batsman, and the reason for that is twofold, he doesn't move the ball enough and the ball is seen throughout his action. At no point is the ball hidden from the batsman even for a milli sec and that means it's never out of the sight of the batsman. Musa is simply too small with a poor seam, with that seam he will get some tail with the older ball but not enough to threaten any decent players. Naseem has a decent seam but the ball doesn't move enough to beat the bat, and that is difficult to explain. He has also lost pace and he doesn't have the skill set to bowl at 85mph and take wickets.

Naseem was good enough to take a hattrick so there is a lot of potential.

 

[Bewal Express]

Naseem was good enough to take a hattrick so there is a lot of potential.

Naseem looked very sharp in those games, he isnt at the moment. For me his lack of pace in NZ was very worrying and if this is a sign of things to come then he is finished. He has to get his sharpess back and very importantly he has to have square leg back to allow him to bowl at the stumps. He just doesn't look comfortable bowling a 4th stump line, he doesn't have the patience or the skills levels to pull it off.

 

[FreePalestine]

Thanks Ian. What are your thoughts on Naseem Shah? I noticed the divergences you identified there from your ‘three tent peg’ method, I believe its called? I think Waqar has been working on some of these things. I have noticed that he is not crossing his legs over as much now. While I realize that this is important for injury prevention, his pace also seems to have diminished despite the improvement. Your thoughts on this?

I do agree with you generally that Pakistan frustratingly throw bowlers in young and ask them to sink or swim and then discard them for years after a poor performance. I don’t know why they keep persisting and publicly defending this insane approach in press conferences.

 

[Ian Pont]

Great observations and insights Ian.
What are your thoughts on Bharat Arun?

I don't know him as a person or as a coach.

I would suspect he will not be doing much, if any, technical changes with bowlers other than being a sounding board. My experience of International coaching is that it is almost non-existent.

The way most coaches survive in their role is to 'do no harm', which means not really intervening. And equally, a player can survive by praising a coach to the heavens even if the coach has done nothing. It is rare in cricket that coaches get found out or that a player will be disappointed with a coach.

 

[Ian Pont]

Hi Ian. Just wanted to ask your opinion on the run up issues that M Wasim Jnr was having for Islamabad United in PSL 6, not sure if you had seen the footage, but if you had do you think it’s a easily rectifiable issue or do you think it’s extremely odd for him to be selected for the National squad while everyone seen that he kept loosing his run upto the crease on several occasions on top of that his only played a handful of games in his first season in PSL 6?

A run up is easily corrected if you know how to do so. It is all about rhythm and what feels right for the bowler. I think he lacks confidence in his approach to the crease, which is likely the thing that causes him most anxiety. If you are worried about your run-up, you can't be having all your attention on the ball you are bowling.

With regards to selection, the subcontinent has a history of throwing players into the fire of International cricket when they are far from ready. Yet sometimes, it can work if they get lucky. If M Wasim Jr is good enough to take International wickets, then his selection is justified. Often, a player is selected as a 'wild card' to give him experience of the bigger stage and show him the way forward. Personally I would go with proven players from first-class cricket first (PSL is T20 cricket and not remotely similar to Test Cricket). You have to select a player usually based on his skill set for that format of the game.

Odd selections can sometimes work, so it might be worth a try. But I would always coach those already on the scene first and only turn to someone unknown at this level if there is no one else.

 

[Ian Pont]

Hi Ian, thanks for the interview. Do you think Naseem Shah has undergone changes in his action in the recent past? If yes, have those changes been effective?

I cannot comment on his work or changes to action. That's because I don't know what he's been doing, whether knows what to do or even if he knows how to improve. I will say that changes can take some time and handling a bowler when these are happening is another skill for a coach. I personally haven't witnessed any real changes but then again some changes are only felt by the bowler and not seen by a camera.

 

[Bewal Express]

I don't know him as a person or as a coach.

I would suspect he will not be doing much, if any, technical changes with bowlers other than being a sounding board. My experience of International coaching is that it is almost non-existent.

The way most coaches survive in their role is to 'do no harm', which means not really intervening. And equally, a player can survive by praising a coach to the heavens even if the coach has done nothing. It is rare in cricket that coaches get found out or that a player will be disappointed with a coach.

I would be interested to hear your views as to why hasnain hardly hurries batsman when the speed gun shows over 90mph.

 

[MenInG]

I would be interested to hear your views as to why hasnain hardly hurries batsman when the speed gun shows over 90mph.

Ian - Does "hurrying a batsman" require special bowling skills as compared to just bowling fast?

 

[Ian Pont]

I would be interested to hear your views as to why hasnain hardly hurries batsman when the speed gun shows over 90mph.

That depends if you trust the speed guns.....

 

[Ian Pont]

Ian - Does "hurrying a batsman" require special bowling skills as compared to just bowling fast?

Some bowlers have the ability to 'rush' a batsman because they are deceptively fast. Jofra Archer is a prime example as he doesn't appear to be running in hard and exercising brute force. The eyes (the visual system is called 'saccades') pick up clues when you are batting and send signals to the brain. If those signals do not quite match the ball speed out of the hand then a batsman can misjudge speed.

You hear the phrase that "xxxx bowler is quicker than you think or faster than he looks". This is where it comes from.

I know that some bowlers hit the catching mitt a great deal harder than you expect sometimes. This is known as 'bowling a heavy ball' when clearly the ball only weighs 154gms.

But basically it's more about the clues a bowler gives and the style of his bowling...

 

[Savak]

Having twice applied for roles with PCB and not having heard a single thing back, I don't see much point in applying anymore. The PCB have my CV I assume and of course I was in the PSL in year 1. I have a few of the current players on WhatsApp and interact with them as well.

The truth is a governing body can approach anyone they wish, so given I am not invisible I suspect they could choose to contact me if they are on the same page. I still plan to work with TCA in South Punjab so I will be in Pakistan at some stage regardless

Don't agree with your logic Ian. You have to keep applying, keep trying and reaching out. I had been applying to the big 4 accounting firms in the past 7 years and every time I got no response but I kept applying, kept trying and I finally got in. It is the applicant who has to keep knocking on doors at the end of the day

 

[Savak]

Hi Ian. What has your experience been like interacting with Shoaib Akhtar? Do you feel that he actually has a very good bowling brain and that he wasn't just all about pace? Do you think he can be a good bowling coach?

 

[Ian Pont]

Don't agree with your logic Ian. You have to keep applying, keep trying and reaching out. I had been applying to the big 4 accounting firms in the past 7 years and every time I got no response but I kept applying, kept trying and I finally got in. It is the applicant who has to keep knocking on doors at the end of the day

You should know as much as I do that logic rarely applies in these cases .

That said I am not desperate for a job, just pointing out that I can help the PCB if they choose. It's one thing to get short-listed, or even interviewed so people can hear what you can do. It is quite another to not even get an acknowledgement of an application - TWICE.

As mentioned, if the high-ups have an idea of who they want, they can usually approach, announce or chase candidates - sometimes publicly.

 

[Ian Pont]

Hi Ian. What has your experience been like interacting with Shoaib Akhtar? Do you feel that he actually has a very good bowling brain and that he wasn't just all about pace? Do you think he can be a good bowling coach?

All of the above is true

 

[MenInG]

Ian which Pakistan fast-bowler in your view would be most effective on the tour of South Africa?

 

[Guardian]

Ian,
Thanks for the valuable insight. What issues do you presently see with Hasnain. He seems to be a much improved bowler as of late. He's got the height, pace and accuracy one needs to succeed at the highest level. Do you think he will be up there with Shaheen anytime soon?

 

[Ian Pont]

Ian which Pakistan fast-bowler in your view would be most effective on the tour of South Africa?

I always feel in South Africa, a bowler like Mohammed Abbas would do extremely well. He is Pakistan's equivalent of Vernon Philander and bowls with incredible and unerring accuracy, which can be effective on SA surfaces. I know he is out of favour right now due to the faster bowlers being around, but in TEST cricket, his style of bowling can be highly effective.

Shaheen Shah Afridi as a left-arm swing bowler has an advantage too.

I like Haris Rauf.

But in SA you can either go for express pace or great control. But whichever bowler is chosen, they have to have accuracy and bowl the ball in the right area.

 

[Ian Pont]

Ian,
Thanks for the valuable insight. What issues do you presently see with Hasnain. He seems to be a much improved bowler as of late. He's got the height, pace and accuracy one needs to succeed at the highest level. Do you think he will be up there with Shaheen anytime soon?

Hasnain shuts of his feet when he bowls and therefore collapses his front leg. This gives him and inconsistent release point (for control) and also means his bad balls are either into the right handed batmen's pads, or short and wide. Yes he has pace. But it would make sense to make some technical improvements to give him a more stable base to bowl from and allow better control. He will then also be able to access even more speed when he aligned correctly.

Once he is consistent, then he can partner Shaheen in time regularly.

 

[CrIc_Mystique]

Ian, a great insight into pace bowling and the mechanics etc by you, thanks for this.
on a wider topic, what do u think is 'off' with jasprit bumrah especially after the early 2019 WI series in WI? some of the wicket taking deliveries he bowled in that series were simply unplayable and of the waqar type late inswing. Since that series, he got injured and not the same since he has come back in nz 2020 or in aus/eng series - I mean he is not bowling total pies but not as effective. Can you pin pointthis?
-And any chance you would work with India, or on the India U-19 guys or in a consultative capacity at NCA or anywhere else ... - we'd love to have u....Cheers and keep up the good work...

 

[badsha001]

Ian, without giving away too much for the obvious reasons, in your opinion, has the usage of PEDs increased in recent times?

 

[Ian Pont]

Ian, without giving away too much for the obvious reasons, in your opinion, has the usage of PEDs increased in recent times?

I don't see/hear anything about performance enhancing drugs for cricket. Anyone can be randomly drug-tested and benefits of that risk would far outweigh any reason to take them.

Plus of course, Cricket is a SKILL sport rather than an endurance or power based sport.

 

[Ian Pont]

Ian, a great insight into pace bowling and the mechanics etc by you, thanks for this.
on a wider topic, what do u think is 'off' with jasprit bumrah especially after the early 2019 WI series in WI? some of the wicket taking deliveries he bowled in that series were simply unplayable and of the waqar type late inswing. Since that series, he got injured and not the same since he has come back in nz 2020 or in aus/eng series - I mean he is not bowling total pies but not as effective. Can you pin pointthis?
-And any chance you would work with India, or on the India U-19 guys or in a consultative capacity at NCA or anywhere else ... - we'd love to have u....Cheers and keep up the good work...

Sometimes 'off the field' focus can impact a player. I know he recently got married for example, and for some players this has an effect. But I don't see anything technical he has changed to make a difference. It's likely just down to performance, which can vary from series to series - no man is a robot.

I have been coaching in India since 2009. I have seen a big uplift in fast bowling interest during this time, with many of the students at my camps going on to play Ranji Trophy over this 12 year period. I don't feel the BCCI are interested in external coaching consultancy (unless you have an Australian passport) so any work I do would be independent.

I do plan to expand my coaching base in India and potentially run a National Fast Bowling Academy there, as I do in the UK. But as with all these things, sponsors need to turn up as well and back some of these great projects and not just fund the big tournaments where very little coaching is ever done.

 

[UzmanBeast]

Hi Ian,

What are your thoughts on Naseem Shah's bowling potential? Is he as good as people thought when he first burst onto the scene?

 

[Junaids]

It pains me to see Pakistan use a so-called fast bowling coach who was a great bowler but doesn’t have the slightest understanding of the actual mechanics of bowling.

While Ian Pont actually has the skills and knowledge to make Hasnain and Naseem and Haris Rauf into top class bowlers, while at the moment small technical problems are obstructing their development.

 

[Ian Pont]

It pains me to see Pakistan use a so-called fast bowling coach who was a great bowler but doesn’t have the slightest understanding of the actual mechanics of bowling.

While Ian Pont actually has the skills and knowledge to make Hasnain and Naseem and Haris Rauf into top class bowlers, while at the moment small technical problems are obstructing their development.

I am always baffled why national boards, franchises and other elite levels of cricket turn to an ex-superstar player to coach rather than an expert technical skills coach.

A world-class cyclist probably doesn't understand the gearing system and dynamics of his bike that allow him to be a world-class cyclist - in the same way a fast bowler doesn't understand the mechanics and kinetics of his action that makes him a world-class cricketer.

I hope the days of appointing 'poster boys' in cricket to important coaching roles, simply based on who they were as players, will soon be over.

 

[Ian Pont]

Hi Ian,

What are your thoughts on Naseem Shah's bowling potential? Is he as good as people thought when he first burst onto the scene?

As I have mentioned before, he has the potential to be a world-class bowler. But you have to nurture that talent and natural abilities by honing it technically, so he is able to perform under pressure. If there are errors he can fix to help improve then these should be made. If there are 'workarounds' he can use to eliminate difficulties then those must be constructed and trained.

My fear for many young quicks everywhere, is the lack of assistance in improving their technical skills to compete consistently. It is only by improving that we succeed

 

[Firebat]

Hello Ian,

I wanted to ask what are your impressions of Mohammad Abbas? More specifically, his dramatic drop-off in form?

In November 2018, he injured his shoulder fielding. These are his stats pre- and post-injury.


12 matches pre-injury:

61 wickets
16.62 avg
42.4 S/R
4 5-fers
1 10-fer


11 matches post-injury:

23 wickets
39.21 avg
93.3 S/R
0 5-fers
0 10-fers


Do you believe that horrible drop-off is due to an injury hangover? If so, is that a coaching/physio failure?

Or is he just not as good a bowler as his first 12 matches indicated, and he is ineffective once international batsmen figured him out (many have stood outside their crease and neutralised him recently)?

 

[UzmanBeast]

As I have mentioned before, he has the potential to be a world-class bowler. But you have to nurture that talent and natural abilities by honing it technically, so he is able to perform under pressure. If there are errors he can fix to help improve then these should be made. If there are 'workarounds' he can use to eliminate difficulties then those must be constructed and trained.

My fear for many young quicks everywhere, is the lack of assistance in improving their technical skills to compete consistently. It is only by improving that we succeed

Agreed. I still think it was unfair on the kid to rush him in Australia, a top class cricketing nation, and especially in test matches. He needed more time in the FC system to learn his own strengths and weaknesses, and it was quite evident on tours to England and New Zealand that he had no idea where to bowl in certain situations.

Player-to-player management is poor in Pakistan, and a growing concern is that the medical panel is a liability to the cricket board. It was said that Naseem sustained multiple injuries, and did so repeatedly. Given that the kid is about 17 years old, it baffles me as to why he was continuously asked to bowl in foreign conditions instead of being rested and training reasonably at the NHPC.

 

[BunnyRabbit]

Now finally a professional coach who can provide proper technical analyses of the fast bowlers. Had become pretty tired of arm chair trained bowling coaching posters on PP providing their deep and illogical insights.

I would rather listen to Ian's analysis and breakdown of bowling actions and other stuff about fast bowlers.

I do have a question though, why couldn't ECB help Steven Finn remedy his knocking over the stumps during his run up despite having a good developing system with all available personnel? He was a very good all format bowler for England with pace and swing. With his break down of bowling action/run up, he lost his pace and swing within a year or two.

 

[BunnyRabbit]

They were all the bowlers. .

At this time there was already a bowling coach in place, although not one who was a technical one. Dav was very keen to get the biomechanics lab going again I believe. This sadly never happened and so an opportunity missed I fear

So they wanted you to do the analysis and work that the bowling coach was being paid for?

I believe Mohammad Akram was the bowling coach for the majority of Whatmore's tenure.

 

[Ian Pont]

I believe Mohammad Akram was the bowling coach for the majority of Whatmore's tenure.

Sarfraz I believe

 

[CaptainIce]

Hi Ian what do you think about Faheem Ashraf's action? It seems as though he he leans forward in his gather

 

[BunnyRabbit]

Sarfraz I believe

no Mohammad Akram worked as the bowling coach from 2012-late 2013. He seems like an honest person who is good at managing the squad and creating a healthy environment as seen through his quite successful tenure with Peshawar Zalmi. In regards to technical aspect of coaching, I don't think Pakistan has a single level 3 or 4 accredited coach for fast bowlers apart from Azhar Mahmood.

 

[MenInG]

Hello Ian,

I wanted to ask what are your impressions of Mohammad Abbas? More specifically, his dramatic drop-off in form?

In November 2018, he injured his shoulder fielding. These are his stats pre- and post-injury.


12 matches pre-injury:

61 wickets
16.62 avg
42.4 S/R
4 5-fers
1 10-fer


11 matches post-injury:

23 wickets
39.21 avg
93.3 S/R
0 5-fers
0 10-fers


Do you believe that horrible drop-off is due to an injury hangover? If so, is that a coaching/physio failure?

Or is he just not as good a bowler as his first 12 matches indicated, and he is ineffective once international batsmen figured him out (many have stood outside their crease and neutralised him recently)?

[MENTION=131682]Ian Pont[/MENTION]

Your views on this please.

 

[MenInG]

Ian - your views on the workload on Shaheen Shah Afridi - should he not be rested now?

 

[ataullah]

Ian why do u think Hasnain has lost so much pace? Can he sustain his pace while trying to swing the ball at the same time? Is his woes due to long strides in his run up?

 

[Nikhil_cric]

Ian why do u think Hasnain has lost so much pace? Can he sustain his pace while trying to swing the ball at the same time? Is his woes due to long strides in his run up?

He is the second fastest bowler in T20's this year. Only Mark Wood is quicker.

 

[Titan24]

Ian has been hired as fast bowling consultant by Southern Punjab Region

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I am very much looking forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/AizazCheema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AizazCheema</a> and his fast bowling crew <a href="https://twitter.com/southern_punjab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@southern_punjab</a>. A massive thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/aliktareen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aliktareen</a> for setting it up. A great sharing of knowledge, drills, training and technical inputs to help assist everyone there. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fastbowling?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fastbowling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistan</a></p>— Ian Pont &#55356;&#56812;&#55356;&#56807; (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1440619798136700929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[shamaan]

Ian has been hired as fast bowling consultant by Southern Punjab Region

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I am very much looking forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/AizazCheema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AizazCheema</a> and his fast bowling crew <a href="https://twitter.com/southern_punjab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@southern_punjab</a>. A massive thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/aliktareen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aliktareen</a> for setting it up. A great sharing of knowledge, drills, training and technical inputs to help assist everyone there. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fastbowling?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fastbowling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistan</a></p>— Ian Pont ���� (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1440619798136700929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hopefully this a step in the right direction.

 

[Guardian]

Ian has been hired as fast bowling consultant by Southern Punjab Region

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I am very much looking forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/AizazCheema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AizazCheema</a> and his fast bowling crew <a href="https://twitter.com/southern_punjab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@southern_punjab</a>. A massive thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/aliktareen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aliktareen</a> for setting it up. A great sharing of knowledge, drills, training and technical inputs to help assist everyone there. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fastbowling?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fastbowling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistan</a></p>— Ian Pont &#55356;&#56812;&#55356;&#56807; (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1440619798136700929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Perfect! He'll be able to develop Naseem Shah now

 

[sweep_shot]

Ian has been hired as fast bowling consultant by Southern Punjab Region

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I am very much looking forward to working with <a href="https://twitter.com/AizazCheema?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AizazCheema</a> and his fast bowling crew <a href="https://twitter.com/southern_punjab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@southern_punjab</a>. A massive thanks to <a href="https://twitter.com/aliktareen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aliktareen</a> for setting it up. A great sharing of knowledge, drills, training and technical inputs to help assist everyone there. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fastbowling?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fastbowling</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pakistan</a></p>— Ian Pont ���� (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1440619798136700929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

All the best to Ian Pont and Southern Punjab.

 

[MenInG]

In an article for PakPassion.net, Ian Pont explains his role at the SPCA and what he intends to achieve with this assignment.

I was approached recently by Ali Khan Tareen to consult with Southern Punjab Cricket Academy, as a fast bowling advisor. This was following a successful trip to the Tareen Cricket Academy (TCA) in Lodhran in 2019 where I first met up with Mohammad Ilyas at that training camp. And during the past 2 years, I have been helping his development from afar.

The role I currently have at South Punjab Cricket Academy (SPCA) is assisting my former student Aizaz Cheema, who I was with at PSL with Quetta Gladiators. He now has the role of bowling coach at the SPCA. So, it is really great to be working with him.

At this time, I am consulting on the technical aspects of the bowling actions and watching matches, plus assessing videos for Aizaz and his team to make improvements. I will pass some thoughts on planning and also make sure the actions have been correctly improved - but of course it will be up to Aizaz and the players to implement this.

On another note, I was thrilled to read that Naseem Shah has joined SPCA. He is a terrific prospect. And with the right technical support, can be a huge force for Pakistan Cricket. Along with Zia-ul-Haq, Zain Abbas, Aamer Yamin, Dilbar Hussain and Mohammad Imran, there is some good local talent for me to work with and help out with.

Of course, all this will take time, and much can be done remotely. It isn’t just about looking at videos and assessing. It is inputting in real-time where required and advising on strategy planning and workloads, drills and training, if needed. You don’t always have to be on site to make a difference. Plus of course, Aizaz and I have worked together previously and so I am confident he can make a positive impact with these guys.

Initially, I will get involved as much as the management at Southern Punjab need it. I am on hand 24/7 for them. But it is up to them how much they need that support.

We must also remember that in cricket, especially in T20, it can be a lottery. As long as players have trained correctly and deliver their skills properly, they have the best chance of being successful. They will always make mistakes and they will always lose matches. But if they take responsibility for performances, then that’s when they can really learn and get better.

As soon as I am able to, I am happy to come back to Pakistan and do some more important work. The COVID-19 situation has meant that Pakistan has only just recently come off the red list from travel from the UK. As such travel restrictions ease, it will be more straightforward to visit, should SPCA require it. And I really look forward to returning to Pakistan as soon as possible, whilst working around my UK commitments as Head Coach on The National Fast Bowling Academy here in the UK.

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Still have be coached correctly. Always been plenty of high profile schemes. 'Talent Hunts' & 'Pathways' alone don't do it. It's the content of coaching that makes the difference.</p>— Ian Pont &#55356;&#56812;&#55356;&#56807; (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1473640965797814279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[finalfantasy7]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Still have be coached correctly. Always been plenty of high profile schemes. 'Talent Hunts' & 'Pathways' alone don't do it. It's the content of coaching that makes the difference.</p>— Ian Pont ���� (@Ponty100mph) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ponty100mph/status/1473640965797814279?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

this is what i said about hasnain - requires a bowling mentor /coach.

Hope rameez brings point back

 

[MenInG]

Hasnain has been a little disappointing but am sure needs some expert advice to fix himself.

 

[MenInG]

Musa Khan on Day 1 of the QeA22 final

<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.250%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/rw67js" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>

 

[Major]

Musa Khan on Day 1 of the QeA22 final

<div style="width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.250%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/rw67js" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="100%" allowfullscreen style="width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div>

I have been skeptical about short heighted bowlers, especially after Bilalwal Bhatti came into the scenes. But than after seeing Sam Currans success who oftens picks up 3-4 wickets in a match, I hope Musa can improve and have success in international cricket

 

[BunnyRabbit]

He has a good bouncer and that's it. He hasn't improved one bit in 3 years.

 

[BunnyRabbit]

I have been skeptical about short heighted bowlers, especially after Bilalwal Bhatti came into the scenes. But than after seeing Sam Currans success who oftens picks up 3-4 wickets in a match, I hope Musa can improve and have success in international cricket

It's about how you use your height to your advantage. A shorter pacer can perfect flat yorkers which are more difficult to hit than regular ones. With flatter trajectory, hitting scoops or ramps becomes quite difficult.

He has more pace than Sam but he hasn't improved his control and developed any swing or seam. A good bouncer and that's about it. Turning out to be an inferior Mohammad Sami.

 

[MenInG]

Stand by for another insightful interview with Ian Pont, very soon.

 

[MenInG]

Stand by for another insightful interview with Ian Pont, very soon.

One clip from this fascinating interview.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1746190364749299826

 

[Asad T]

One clip from this fascinating interview.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1746190364749299826

Perhaps he has overbowled, or maybe he needs to do more strength training?

We hardly played any ODI's or Tests in 2023 compared to other countries. It could also be a relic of his previous injury that he hasn't 100% recovered from.