'We are richer in experience'

MiD DAY July 30, 2006

'We are richer in experience'

By Suhrid Barua

Bangalore: After the three-day ‘outward learning programme’ ended at the Pegasus Centre of Excellence on the outskirts of the city, the India cricket team returned to base on Saturday and skipper Rahul Dravid dwelled on the specifics of the camp.Allround development“It’s a great challenge. It’s a challenge to see the boys grow not only as good cricketers but also as human beings,” he said.Dravid agreed that not much can change overnight, but the exercise can give the players new food for thought.New experiences“Obviously, nothing much can change in one day or two days. We all know that. The whole stint should at least give the players some new experiences to think about.”Dravid said the youngsters thoroughly enjoyed the innovative programme.“The whole bunch enjoyed the experience and would be richer by it. The youngsters came out and communicated to seniors. They will have a lot going for them from this stint. It will help them develop their overall personality and we will definitely see the effects in the long-term.”Tai Chi?He said Tai Chi sessions were a whole new experience for the boys. “We had a session in Tai Chi, which is like yoga. We had heard about it and we wanted to experience it. Hopefully it might benefit the boys, some might even pursue it,” the Bangalorean said.Sachin was keenDravid made special mention of master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, who is staging a comeback to the side after an injury lay-off.“Sachin showed extreme interest and participated in each of the training methods, which were pretty challenging both physically and mentally.”Dravid, however, feigned ignorance about reports of additional security ring being thrown for the ace batsman.