Tristan Stubbs has disclosed that his prowess in batting is significantly influenced by his experience in playing field hockey during his school days.
Proteas and Delhi Capitals star Tristan Stubbs has acknowledged that his field hockey background has enhanced his skills as a batsman. This season in the IPL, Stubbs has displayed a remarkable variety of shots.
How Hockey Contributes to Tristan Stubbs’ Cricket Technique
Stubbs credits his foundational skills in cricket to his early training in hockey. “I got the basics from hockey,” Stubbs mentioned during a broadcast of a recent IPL match he participated in. “I practice them a lot. The way I turn my hands for the spin and seam is similar to how I hold a hockey stick. Getting both feet down low definitely comes from there [hockey].”
Stubbs played a pivotal role in his team’s recent triumph over the high-performing Rajasthan Royals, contributing significantly with his skillful hitting. He demonstrated his capability to perform rapid innings under significant pressure.
“We came here knowing we needed to win, and also the next two games,” Stubbs explained. Despite having limited time to settle in, he effectively used his time at the crease to score 41 off 20 balls. “I came in and gave myself a few balls to adjust. I was batting with Rish [Rishabh Pant], and when he got out, we took a timeout. The strategy was for me to keep the scoreboard ticking until the last three overs. I found an over to attack, found my rhythm, observed the field setup, and prepared for what was coming. I focused on staying still, looked towards the sight screen, and reacted to wherever the ball was pitched.”
Making an Impact
Stubbs has caught the attention of former Proteas star Robin Peterson, who praised his physical attributes and intelligent cricket approach. “Physically, he’s a big guy,” Peterson shared with ESPNcricinfo. “What stands out is his ability to hit sixes and his bat speed. We’ve discussed how to manipulate the field – like playing your reverse sweep a bit finer, or managing your extra-cover shot, your back-foot shot, or playing spin from the front foot to extra cover.”
Peterson also highlighted Stubbs’ quick hands, a trait Stubbs attributes to his hockey background. “He reads length well,” Peterson noted about Stubbs. “He uses sweeps and reverse sweeps effectively, and always has a plan B to fall back on. He has the capability to manipulate the game, and his fast hands are a big part of his success.”
