Coach John Emburey says his players seem to be in good touch and are eagerly looking forward to the start of the new season
AHMEDABAD: Ahmedabad Rockets was formed in the second part of the first season (March) of Indian Cricket League. They were the babies of the league then and failed to make any impact.
Moreover, unlike Lahore Badshahs - another debutants at that time - Rockets had players from every corner of the world, who found it hard to gel. The chemistry seemed missing.
Even coach John Emburey had expressed apprehension when he took charge of Rockets. “It is a disadvantage as we have to try out a few combinations,” Emburey had then said.
In that series, Ahmedabad Rockets had started on a positive note beating Chandigarh Lions. But after that the Rockets failed to make any impact.
Six months later, the scene is different. The coach is looking positive as team is getting its act together.
“We had problems earlier. But now everyone is gelling well. Moreover, everyone is looking in good touch. Local players played a good tournament in Bangalore and the others were engaged with county commitments, which means they have some match practice under their belt,” the former England captain said.
The coach is really impressed with Murray Goodwin, who enjoyed a phenomenal run with Sussex in County Championships. Only worry is captain Damien Martyn’s form, who is short on runs. He is yet to play an innings of impact for the Rockets.
Overall, the batting department looks good, with last year’s top scorer for the Rockets S Sriram and in-form Anshu Jain in middle order.
Inclusion of Ryan Campbell has given captain Martyn more variety. Campbell who has played two ODIs for Australia is likely to be first choice wicketkeeper.
In bowling department, the onus will be on Jason Gillespie. The Aussie had good season with Glamorgan and looked in good rhythm during the five day camp. In Heath Streak, there is another seasoned campaigner in the team. RS Sodhi is the other pace option while in the spin department Sumit Kalia and Bhima Rao are likely to come good.
