Tim David 'Working Really Hard' on His Legspin Ahead of Super Eight Clash

As the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 progresses, Australia's Tim David is expanding his skill set by honing his legspin bowling. Known for his prowess as a big-hitting finisher and part-time offspinner, David revealed that he has been diligently working on legspin over the past nine months, aiming to provide his team with an additional bowling option.

David, who has yet to bowl in the tournament, emphasized the enjoyment he finds in bowling, stating, "I started bowling legspin in nets about nine months ago, and they came out really well. It's more fun in the game than just sitting there for 20 overs in the field."

In preparation for Australia's first Super Eight game against Bangladesh in Antigua, David has been collaborating with frontline spinners Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa to refine his technique. He has also been receiving insights from bowling coaches, tailoring the advice to suit his style.

Australia is grouped with Bangladesh, India, and Afghanistan in the Super Eight, and they anticipate a heavy reliance on spin bowling from their opponents. David highlighted the challenge posed by Bangladesh's legspinner Rishad Hossain, whom the Australian team has not encountered before. "I don't think anyone in our team will have played against him. So we're going to take him on," David asserted.

In addition to bowling, David has been focusing on facing spin in the nets. However, as game day approaches, he prefers not to overthink his preparation, aiming instead to maintain a good feeling and have fun during training.

One key factor David is considering is the direction of the wind at the ground. He noted, "The wind's really important. You hit the ball into the wind, it goes 50 metres shorter; you get one downwind, you can't stop it."

As Australia prepares for their crucial Super Eight matches, David's development as a legspinner and his strategic approach to both batting and bowling could prove vital for the team's success in the tournament.