All-rounder Johnathan Foo said yesterday that talks with Jamaica Tallawahs players Dale Steyn and Kumar Sangakkara during the 2016 Hero Caribbean Premier League (HCPL) helped him to improve his cricket.
Foo ended the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Jaguars Franchise League three-day tournament as the second leading run scorer with 538 runs from seven matches.
The former Guyana T20 batting star told Stabroek Sport that he has somewhat matured in recent times and especially thanked Sangakkara and Steyn for their advice throughout.
“I was with the Jamaica Tallawahs and I was always close up listening and asking a few questions, looking at little things like how the International players prepare for a game,” he said.
“Speaking to Dale Steyn a lot I found out how he tries to get batsmen out when he has the new ball in his hands so I had a clue if ever I have the opportunity to face the new ball, I will be one step ahead of the bowler.”
The 26-year-old also said advice from world-class batsman Sangakkara gave caused him to score in a more responsible, consistent manner.
“Sangakkara had taught me a few technical stuff with the bat. I came home and worked on and it’s really paying off for me so far so I will keep working on it and hopefully keep getting better and better as days go by,” he said.
Despite his talent, the right-hander has not been able to fully flourish and cement a place in the national team and after several appearances in recent times, he admitted that focusing more on fitness and self-confidence have been key factors in his progression.
“Some of the things that have been contributing to my form presently is the way I prepare myself. My fitness level isn’t really where I wanted it to be but I’m getting there and I’m trying to spend as much time as possible out in the middle and play towards my strength,” said the former Guyana U19 batsman.
“I also set myself small goals like batting towards water breaks and More importantly scoring runs. The intent is always there from ball one so I try to score and play the balls that I have control over.”
Being the first to score a century in the league tournament before going on to rack up another ton in the following match, Foo said that he believes the pitches that were used during the competition were decently prepared and helped him settle nicely into form.
“I’m really enjoyed having a good season with the bat. I must thank the ground staff for the good pitches they provided us with. So far, every time I have had the opportunity to bat, I tried to make the most of it. It was never any pressure situations because I have had enough time to play myself in and see what the pitch was doing.
“Basically I haven’t changed anything with the way I approach my innings except I always try to be positive and try to be on top of the bowling. Sometimes it works sometimes it doesn’t, but when I have that extra confidence and trust given by my coach I feel really good going out to bat with that extra boost,” he declared.
While the Franchise League was a more of a measuring stick for the selectors and coaches who will look to get their best crop of players together before the Regional season bowls off in November, the West Indies A player said he was happy to have achieved his small goals and is preparing himself for the upcoming season, should he be selected.
“Before the tournament started I had set small goals, I was asking myself for two centuries out of the seven games. I don’t have a special format I want to play, I’m open to all formats and looking for every step and opportunity I can have to become a better cricketer.
“It’s very important for me to maintain this form I’m having right now knowing how much cricket is ahead. Having the perfect start to the season is important for me because I can take every opportunity and grab it with both hands and hopefully I can have a successful season,” he ended.
