ECB Coaches Association links Inside Edge 6 May 2018 | Page 28

S I R C U R T LY A M B R O S E

“We did a lot of running on the beach, and running
in the water using the resistance to strengthen our
legs. Your legs are so, so, so important, because if
your legs can’t carry you there’s no way you’ll be able
to bowl. Physically bowling fast is not easy, believe
me, and that is why I spent a lot of time working
on my fitness. It may look easy, but if you are not fit
enough you are never going to last the distance”.
And despite the memorable smiles, the Rolls
Royce smooth approach and delivery, and the wacky
celebrations after taking a wicket, he experienced
nerves before the big games. “I did get nervous. It
wasn’t debilitating to the extent I couldn’t get the job
done. It was more excitement about doing well for the
team. The hardest thing to do as a bowler is starting,
because you want to make sure you get through the
first few deliveries without conceding too many runs,
otherwise you are immediately under pressure . If you
can get the first couple of deliveries in a nice area you
will be more relaxed and into the game. Everyone
gets a bit nervous. It is learning to manage the nerves,
and use them positively, that makes players more
successful.”
Curtly Ambrose gives instructions to players Jerome
Taylor, Shannon Gabriel and Kemar Roach during a
practice session.
F I N D I N G R H Y T H M – W I T H T H E N E W B A L L A N D T H E G U I TA R
“People assumed
because I had done
well I didn’t need any
help, but that is not
the right way to go.
From my experience,
it does not matter
how good you are as
a cricketer, everyone
has shortcomings.”
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