But Buchanan adds that a coach also needs to be flexible when dealing with players with diverse backgrounds and status. It’s a line the Aussie coach has stuck to here while dealing with a troubled youngster like Stuart Clarke or a star like Glenn McGrath, who was keen to get it right on field after a long layoff. While Clarke got a long net session after a nightmarish spell, McGrath and Buchanan had a late afternoon pool session with the coach drawing imaginary lines on wet tiles to emphasise the importance of bowling in the right area.

Buchanan says that he tries to understand his wards as “persons and not cricketers’’. “Everybody is a different person and it is important to understand them individually as people, and try to assist them as individuals. Hopefully, if we do that, their game blossoms,’’ he says.

But is it tough handling the mega stars and legends in the team ? “Look, I think every coach will do that differently. For me, it is trying to establish a relationship with the person. And that’s what I continue to try to work on. So if I understand and develop that relationship, it gives me a better way and means to understand what they are going through and hopefully, I can assist that person to develop,’’ he says.

Buchanan adds that to develop this bond a constant effort is required, which means being in touch with them constantly. “Our players are spread around the country, some are overseas. As much as I can do, I do stay in touch with them either by phone or email or SMS. And obviously, meeting them whenever it is possible,’’ he says. Does it also include calling them on birthdays and anniversaries? “Yes, why not?’’ he asks with a smile.

... contd.