The run-up is precise. The delivery is in the zone. Result? A synthetic ball is hit for a six by a Sourav Ganguly or a Virat Kohli residing in every other shopper at Forum mall on Elgin Road!
The adrenaline rush of facing a bowling machine in the nets can now be enjoyed at the shopping destination’s portico, thanks to Howzat!!!, a “virtual cricket zone”, where batsmen rule.
Former Bengal cricket skipper Deep Dasgupta walked in a little before 1pm on Friday to face a few quick deliveries and he was quite bowled over.
“This has great entertainment value and you can test your skills as well,” DD told t2.
Certified by an expert, t2 decided to find out more about the virtual zone.
“Since the place or time to go out and play cricket is limited, this zone offers a great experience. One can come with a few friends, hit a few cricket balls, play a short match and, in the process, test your skills as well. We all love to play and talk cricket, so there is immense opportunity here.”
— Deep Dasgupta, former Bengal skipper
How does it work?
Collect your batting gear (supplied by Howzat!!!) and take guard inside the cricket net (the playing area is 55ft long), which is complete with artificial grass. Facing you would be a video simulator with a bowling machine, which fires synthetic balls. Time for you to give it your best shot.
Fast, medium or spin?
There is spin as well as pace bowling and there are three levels — beginner, club and professional. “The bowlers deliver at speeds between 60km/hr and 150km/hr, so kids and grown-ups can play,” says Animesh Jaiswal, 29, one of the three owners of Howzat!!! The other two are Kundan Jaiswal, 27, and Aniket Roy, 28.
What’s the target score?
It can be generated by the system or punched in manually. Thirty would be the minimum target in three overs.
Four, sixes, singles....
Zones inside the net will be marked six, four and so on. This will help the batsman score easily.
Price of strokeplay?
Rs 200 per game. “Depending on the reaction, we will decide on a website and an app to pre-book slots.”
Timing?
10am to 10pm.
Pictures: Pabitra Das
