Questions Answered
Below are selected questions and answers that could be beneficial to you.
Q: I am coaching under 14's at my club and there are a couple of kids who really need help with there bowling do you have any suggestions that may fast track them? I think if I can't help them that they may quit, as they are not enjoying this part of thier cricket. Paul, Ascot Vale
A: Thanks for your question Paul. Bowling should be a very enjoyable part of cricket, particularly with so many different styles to choose from. The first step would be to ask your bowlers to find a style of bowling they find enjoyable i.e. Leg spin, swing or fast bowling. Then encourage them to practice the main skill of that style to the best of their ability. For example, let your leg spinner try and spin the ball as much as he or she can from leg to off, regardless of accuracy to start with.
The same with pace bowlers, if they can bowl pretty quickly, do not discourage them because they may not be very accurate or get many wickets. Bowlers will enjoy their job if they aren't under pressure or feel restricted as to what they can do. It will certainly take some patience from you as the coach, as well as the bowlers. But in the long run this will make the game more enjoyable and you will really see some development in your players.
Finally, remind your players the importance of the bowler in any cricket match - remember, bowlers start the game with their first delivery, not the batsmen!
Q: When batting, how do you judge the line of the ball? Also, when do you step to the ball? Ryan, Wonwondah
A: Very good question Ryan. Do not underestimate the power of watching the ball super hard when you are batting. 'Keep your eye on the ball' is a common, old saying in cricket, but is often taken for granted. It is very important that you focus hard on the ball out of the bowler's hand. One tip is to watch the seam of the ball, not just the ball itself. Looking for the less visable seam makes you focus extremely hard on the ball. Also keep your head quite still as the bowler runs in and delivers, this will assist your focus on the ball. You need to play the line you think the ball is taking, you cannot control weather it will swing or cut or spin. Obviously it does help if you have some idea of what movement the bowler is getting with the ball.
Stepping to the ball should occur after you have 'found' the ball and the line and length it is on. This does happen very quickly, but generally you should step towards deliveries that are pitched 'fuller', up towards you. You need to avoid 'planting' your foot to early, but also moving too late. My advice is to watch the ball hard, 'find' it and then react while keeping your head as still as possible. You can combine practice and your natural instincts to become confident with this part of batting. Good luck with the 'stick' Ryan and most importantly, enjoy your cricket!