The spelling of the phrase "taken guard" can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. The first word, "taken," is pronounced as /ˈteɪkən/. The 'a' sound is pronounced as 'ay' and the final 'en' sound is an unstressed syllable pronounced as 'ən.' The second word, "guard," is pronounced as /ɡɑːrd/. The 'g' sound is a voiced velar stop, and the 'ar' sound is pronounced as 'ɑː.' Together, the pronunciation of "taken guard" is /ˈteɪkən ɡɑːrd/.
Taken guard is a cricket term that refers to the action performed by a batsman before facing a delivery from the bowler. It involves the batsman positioning themselves correctly at the crease in preparation for receiving the ball.
When a batsman is about to face a delivery, they assume a specific stance known as taking guard. This stance helps the batsman to correctly position their body and feet, ensuring a solid base from which to play their shots. It also allows the batsman to get a sense of their personal space at the crease, enabling them to make small adjustments according to their comfort and playing style.
To take guard, the batsman usually marks a line or scratch on the ground with their bat to indicate their desired reference point. This reference point helps the batsman maintain their positioning while facing different bowlers or varying types of deliveries. It also aids in determining the off stump, where the batsman's offside play is based.
Taking guard provides the batsman with a sense of stability and confidence as they face the bowler. It allows them to focus their attention on the upcoming delivery, rather than worrying about their posture or alignment. By taking guard, the batsman gains a starting point that helps them adapt and respond effectively to the bowler's actions.