Modern batting greats practice ahead of MCC vs ROW clash

Us mere mortals who have never had a chance of watching our cricketing idols practice behind the scenes need not feel dejectedanymore. The 50-over exhibition match between MCC and Rest of the World to celebrate the 200thanniversary of the Lords Cricket Ground has resulted ina galaxy of stars coming together to celebrate the momentous occasion.The match will seethe likes of Sachin Tendulkarand Brian Laraplaying togetheragainstthelikes ofShane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan. Tendulkar, Lara, Dravid etc.have been practising intensely in the nets in preparation forwhat is after all anexhibition game, displaying their professionalism and work ethic. Here are a few glimpses of the batting legends in action in the nets:

#1 Tendulkar\'s trademark straight drive

Tendulkar’s retirement in November last year has deprived cricket fans around the world from seeing the Little Master in action and particularly from seeing his trademark straight drive. The straight drive probably yielded him the most number of runs in his career and one can never tire of seeing it.

#2 Tendulkar\'s back-foot punch

Tendulkar still looks in pretty good touch with the bat and why wouldn’t he. After all, it’s not been long since he called it quits and I suppose, he’s been secretly practising for this marquee game with his son Arjun.

#3 Tendulkar\'s solid defence

When one approximately scores 35000 international runs like Tendulkar has, it’s safe to say that he has a pretty good defence and here Tendulkar shows why bowlers found it so difficult to get the better of him with a copybook defence off the back-foot.

#4 Brian Lara masterclass

Brian Lara entertained cricket fans throughout his career by scoring runs at a fast pace, with a range of strokes at his disposal. Here is Lara showing his range, which made him a nightmare to bowl to.

#5 Lara facing Umar Gul

Brian Lara is currently 45 and it’s been 7 years since he retired from cricket. Yet while facing Umar Gul, a current international cricketer, he seemed to have no problem as he casually tucks him away to the leg side.

#6 Rahul Dravid doing what he does best

Rahul Dravid was known for his technically perfect defensive stroke during his playing days. For him to perfect the defensive stroke would have taken years of practice without doubt. Despite having retired a couple of years back, it’s no surprise then that his defence is well in tact.

#7 Shivnarine Chanderpaul in action

Shivnarine Chanderpaul might not be the prettiest batsman to watch, but he is effective alright with more than 10000 Test runs to his name. He might not be blessed with a lot of natural flair but it’s his hardwork in the nets that has paid off.