Page:Jubilee Book of Cricket (Second edition, 1897).djvu/27

Rh think what he intends doing. In the case of fieldsmen, he must show them how to pick up balls, both when they are coming straight and when they have to be run after; how to catch the ball; how to pick it up; the duty of running at top speed and returning it as quickly as possible; and other things which help to make a man perfect in fielding.

The subject of outfit in connection with school cricket must not be omitted. It will do much towards success. All distinguished cricketers have been careful as to their costume and cricketing material. Every one will agree that we must suit our dress to the demands of ease, convenience, and comfort, as well as of health and cleanliness. The shirt ought to be of canvas, wool, or flannel. Flannel is always preferable if the wearer can put up with the irritation. In this respect the schools are well looked after by the masters. Both trousers and shirts must be made so as to fit loosely, but not flappingly. Boys are in the habit of putting on belts. This is a mistake, since the noise the belt makes may at times be mistaken for a catch at the wicket. I advise instead scarves or sashes, which also have a smarter appearance. For the sake of discipline, too, boys will do well to wear their school uniform or colours in turning out for cricket games: it shows keenness and pride in the school. It is not necessary to speak of head-gear, as caps are in general use at schools. It would be better for boys when in the field or at the wickets always to keep them on, as it will render them less liable to sunstroke. I strongly condemn the practice of playing cricket in straw hats; they are both cumbersome and uncomfortable. When the sun is too powerful for caps, felt or sun hats are the best. For cold days every one should be furnished with a jersey or sweater; but it is not advisable to use the sweater while batting, as it tends to cramp the movements. Blazers also are very necessary when one is not actively pursuing the game—e.g., during the luncheon interval or while awaiting your turn to bat. Boots, not shoes, should be worn, as they give better support to the feet and ankles. They are generally white in colour, and ought always to be kept clean by the use of whitening or pipeclay. Nothing is more disagreeable than to see a member of a team wearing a dirty pair of boots. It is not necessary for a batsman to have many nails in his boots, but for a bowler it is