The Role of the Wicket-Keeper

My Grandfather would worry when the England wicket-keeper played a good innings, warning that if he spent too long batting he would struggle to adjust to his proper job of keeping wicket.

I am reminded of his insight when considering the recent performances of Geraint Jones. The improvement of his wicket-keeping has gone largely unnoticed as his batting average has declined. This indicates just how difficult it is for any glove man to be a genuine all-rounder. In both jobs every delivery demands total concentration, but a moment's lapse can ruin a performance.

The wicket-keeper is the soul of the fielding side. No other player is so constantly involved. No other player is in a better position to give insightful advice to the bowlers or to give encouragement to the team when they most need it. Perhaps this is why Jones remains in the side. Read may be the better batsman and the better wicket-keeper, but Jones does the unquantifiable work far better.