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Net Session
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Wicket Keeping Gear
[Description of Wicket Keeping Gear - Video]
Gloves:
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The glove chosen by a keeper has to feel like the natural extension of
the arm. The rubber facing should be pimpled and should not have any
smooth spots. The fingers must reach the end of the glove, which is
usually protected with foam padding.
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The palm should be well padded and at the same time, allow the
formation of the `cup' quite easily. The webbing between the thumb and
forefinger must be sufficient to prevent the ball from escaping after
it has been caught.
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Depending on personal preference, gloves with loose floppy fingers or
with the fingers attached at the base, can be used.
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Inner gloves are recommended to be worn and the number again depends
on the keeper's comfort. Generally one pair of inner gloves made of
chamois leather with some padding will be ideal.
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Earlier keepers used to wet the inner glove (which was generally made
of cotton) but now its better to take a few catches before going in to
keep, as this facilitates sweating and makes it supple and flexible.
Pads:
Pads & Other Gear:
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The pads worn are generally the ones with the top flaps shortened and
held by only two straps. Care should be taken to see that the knee
roll is sufficiently padded to prevent injury while gathering low
balls rolling on the ground. The pads should preferably be light with
extra foam padding at the shin, as this is the place the ball strikes
most often if it is missed.
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An abdomen guard must be worn inside the pouch of the supporter (jock
straps) at all times and its position must be checked and adjusted if
necessary before every ball.
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On bouncy turning pitches, when you have to keep up to the spinners,
it is advisable to wear a helmet with a visor to increase your
confidence in getting behind the line of the ball to gather it. At all
others times a cap or hat is a must to keep away the sun and help
concentrate on the action.
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A good pair of shoes is also very essential. Generally good rubber
spiked shoes will suffice quite nicely, though if the conditions are
damp and slippery, it is recommended to use half spike shoes. The
metal spikes in front will give you the grip to move or dive when
standing back to fast bowlers.
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