Cricket

99.94 Tips to Improve

Your Game

Ken Davis
Neil Buszard

Human Kinetics
 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Davis, Ken, 1946-

Cricket : 99.94 tips to improve your game / Ken Davis and Neil Buszard.
p. cm.
ISBN-13: 978-0-7360-9078-0 (soft cover)
ISBN-10: 0-7360-9078-9 (soft cover)
1. Cricket--Training. I. Buszard, Neil, 1953- II. Title.
GV917.D38 2011
796.358--dc22
2010052854

ISBN-10: 0-7360-9078-9 (print)

ISBN-13: 978-0-7360-9078-0 (print)

Copyright © 2011 by Ken Davis and Neil Buszard

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The players' statistics cited in this text can be found at www.espncricinfo.com and were
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Contents
Foreword vii • Acknowledgments viii • Introduction ix

Part I Batting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1 Starting an Innings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
2 Seeing Off the New Ball . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
3 Running Aggressively . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
4 Some Rules for Running Between Wickets . . . . . . .6
5 Hitting to the Gaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
6 Dancing With the Spinners . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
7 Backing Up—It’s So Easy . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
8 Improvising—A Risky Business . . . . . . . . . . . 10
9 Reading the Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
10 Farming the Strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
11 Lofting With the Wind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
12 Staying Alert as a Night Watchman: Don't Go to Sleep! . 14
13 Using the Bowling Machine Wisely . . . . . . . . . 15
14 The Communication Triangle When an Injured
Batter Isn’t Running . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
15 Breaks in Batting Equal Breaks in Concentration—
Be Warned! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
16 Ones and Twos Make Sense . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
17 Beware the Full Toss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
18 A Wicket Falls—You’re In! . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
19 Wag the Tail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
20 Staying in by Getting to the Other End . . . . . . . . 22
Part II Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
21 Bowling to Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
22 Shine, Don’t Whine! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

iii
 23 Persist, Persist, Persist: A Bowler’s Mantra . . . . . . . 29
24 Bowling Is Just Like Archery: Hit the Spot
to Win Gold! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
25 Analyse, Don’t Criticise!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
26 Use the Wind to Your Advantage . . . . . . . . . . 32
27 Practise Like Tennis Players . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
28 Learn to Mask Your Deliveries . . . . . . . . . . . 35
29 Variety Is the Spice of Bowling Life . . . . . . . . . 36
30 Six-Packs Can Be Spun for More Fun! . . . . . . . . 38
Part III Fielding . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
31 Anticipating the Shot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
32 Running in Pairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
33 Setting Up the Relay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
34 Back Up, Don’t Muck Up! . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
35 The Value of a Knock-Down . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
36 Percentage Fielding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
37 Taking the Stumps When Appropriate . . . . . . . . 49
38 Be a Fielder, Not a Spectator . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
39 Stay Low, Throw Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
40 Slip It On and Cover Them Up . . . . . . . . . . . 52
41 Slide for Speed, Not for Show! . . . . . . . . . . . 54
42 ‘Bend ze Knees!’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
43 Become a Star Fielder off Your Own Bowling . . . . . 56
44 Making Run-Outs Routine . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
45 Batters Can Spin, Too! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
46 Bounce the Ball Into the Keeper’s Gloves,
Not at His Shins! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
47 Use the Right Throw at the Right Time . . . . . . . . 62
48 Swarm Like Bees to the Honey Pot . . . . . . . . . 64
49 Set the Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
50 Cricket Is Not Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

iv
Part IV Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
51 To Bat, or Not to Bat—That Is the Question . . . . . . 71
52 Avoid Pressuring Bowlers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
53 Get the Angles Right . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
54 Remember the Mid-On. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
55 The Second New Ball—Overrated or Not? . . . . . . 75
56 Be Positive—It's Infectious . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
57 Place Your Fielders Strategically . . . . . . . . . . . 77
58 Create the Unexpected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
59 Declarations Must Optimise Your Chance of Winning . . 80
60 Change Bowlers Before It’s Too Late . . . . . . . . . 82
61 Respect Takes Time to Earn and Just Moments to Lose! . 83
62 The Captain Is More Than a Figurehead . . . . . . . 84
63 Feel the Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
64 Become Your Own Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
65 What Should Coaches Expect From Their Players? . . . 88
66 Train as You Play . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
67 What Should Players Expect From Their Coach? . . . . 90
68 Backyards and Beaches Are Great Nurseries . . . . . . 92
69 Coaching Wicketkeepers Is Often an Afterthought . . . 94
Part V General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
70 It’s Not Offensive to Be Defensive! . . . . . . . . . 99
71 Learn From Mistakes, Don’t Repeat Them. . . . . . . 100
72 Silent Nights Are Golden . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
73 Do More . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
74 Come to Practise, Don’t Turn Up for Practice . . . . . 103
75 Concentrate! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
76 Game-Like Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
77 Bring On the Spotlights: Tips for Playing in Finals . . . . 108
78 The Power of the Leading Arm . . . . . . . . . . . 110

v
 79 There’s no I in ‘Team’ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
80 Be in the Team, Not Just on the Team Sheet . . . . . . 112
81 Team Behaviour on Game Day . . . . . . . . . . . 114
82 Play Other Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
83 Practise With Distractions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
84 When to Watch the Players, Not the Ball . . . . . . . 118
85 Grow a Tree That Produces Fruit Every Year . . . . . . 120
86 Taking It One Step at a Time . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
87 When Things Are Going Badly, Think of the Forest
After a Fire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
88 The Power of Peer Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . 125
89 Playing With Pain Is a Balancing Act . . . . . . . . . 126
90 Evaluating Performance: Moving Beyond Statistics . . . 127
91 Versatility in an Increasingly Specialised World . . . . . 128
92 Winning Premierships: The Ultimate Team Reward
(Neil’s Story) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
93 Kicking Goals to Launch a Season . . . . . . . . . . 132
94 Make Your Home Ground Away From Home . . . . . 134
95 What if Your Nightmares Come True? . . . . . . . . 136
96 Boys to Men . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
97 Body Language Tells a Story . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
98 When David Beat Goliath (Ken’s Story) . . . . . . . . 141
99 Gaining Wisdom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

About the Authors 155

vi
Foreword

S
ir Donald (Don) Bradman and the figure 99.94 are well
entrenched in cricket folklore and synonymous with each other.
Bradman is statistically the greatest cricketer to ever play the
game. His batting average of 99.94 is still almost twice as good as
anyone else who has played Test cricket. Therefore, it makes sense that
a book written about cricket for coaches and players should include
99 chapters.
Neil Buszard and Ken Davis have been playing and coaching cricket
for the past 40 years. As leaders in the game, they challenge conven-
tion to create better players and a better game.
This book is not a typical instructional manual. It is filled with
a variety of views and strategies to help both athletes and coaches
improve their game. It provides useful tips and generates critical
thinking. For some, the points will merely crystallize thoughts. For
others, they may open minds to a much broader appreciation of the
game than just the basics.
If you are looking for the edge on your competitors or you are in
need of some inspiration, Cricket: 99.94 Tips to Improve Your Game
might be just the catalyst you are seeking.
Merv Hughes

Sir Donald Bradman

Matches Inns Runs HS Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 52 80 6996 334 99.94 29

vii
 Acknowledgments

T
o my mum, Lorna; and dad, Ken; who nurtured my love for
sport and encouraged me throughout my career.
To my children, Rhett, Brooke, and Ben, who inspired me to
appreciate the value and fascination of the written word.
To the late George Tribe, who introduced me to the science and
art of cricket. His wisdom and smiling face always greeted me after a
hot day in the field chasing leather.
To Brian Nettleton, my lecturer at Melbourne University, who
showed me how to think creatively about teaching and coaching.
To my brother, Barry, who is a model sportsman, teacher, and a
deep thinker about all the sport we have played together. A champion
to me and others he has taught and coached.
To all the clubs that showed faith in me as a coach, to the players and
colleagues who have provided the environment for me to discover and
apply many of the ideas expressed in this book, I am eternally grateful.
To all the team-mates and opponents I’ve worked with, who have
contributed to the lessons I’ve learned and to a lifetime of wonderful
memories.
Ken Davis

T
o my mum, Gladys; dad, Ernie; and brother, Ian; who have
encouraged and supported my love of sport.
To my wife, Liz, who has had to endure the highs and lows
of playing and coaching—but has always supported my endeavours.
To my sons, Peter and Tim, who share my passion of sport and
inspire others with their dedication to their individual pursuits.
To George Murray and Keith Stackpole, my senior cricket coaches,
and Lyn Straw and David Went, my senior baseball coaches, who
nurtured my skills and who, in their own ways, provided the founda-
tion for my sporting career.
To Frank Pyke and Peter Spence, of the Victorian Institute of
Sport, who helped to develop my coaching philosophy and enhance
my personal growth.
To every team-mate, assistant coach, sports scientist and admin-
istrative assistant who shared their passion of sport and helped me
achieve success.
Neil Buszard
viii
Introduction

T
his book explores aspects of playing and coaching cricket that
do not typically appear in how-to books on the game. Therefore,
you will not find much content about the techniques involved in
the myriad of batting strokes in a batter’s repertoire. You won’t learn
how to bowl an outswinger, leg-spinner, off-cutter, or even a doosra.
However, there is something here for both the elite player and the
grass-roots cricketer.
In order to consistently play cricket well, a strong foundation of
fundamental skills that will stand up under pressure is needed. How-
ever, you must couple this skill with an ever-expanding understanding
of the nuances of the game. For instance, you need tactical sense, a
focused mind, and the ability to adapt to any situation that confronts
you. In short, go beyond the basics in order to excel in the competitive
world of cricket.
Through our years of playing, coaching, and learning about cricket,
we have gathered insights from a number of sources that can benefit
players and coaches alike. We have gained wisdom from fellow play-
ers, athletes we have coached, and most importantly, the sport-science
researchers with whom we have been involved. This information can
set you on the path to cricket excellence. If you follow the concepts
outlined in this book, we have no doubt that you will become a better
player or coach. We hope your thinking about the sport is challenged
and your performance and appreciation of the game is enhanced.
You can pick this book up at any time and read a couple of points.
Some tips are longer than others, which reflects both a fundamental
difference in our writing styles and the very nature of the game. Some
overs take longer than others, some outfielders run more than the slip
cordon, and some batters sprint distances that vary from 20 to 60
metres when scoring. Be prepared for diversity!
Our original intent was to compile a century of cricket tips, but
we changed that when we thought of the man who took cricket
performance to levels that have never been, and probably never will be,
emulated. Sir Don Bradman’s Test-batting average of 99.94 seemed an
apt figure on which to model the number of chapters. We did not see
Bradman play, but we have marvelled at his dominance of opposition

ix
 attacks. His footwork and attacking all-round game would no doubt
have allowed him to excel in any era. He is simply the pinnacle of
batting craft.
We trust you will enjoy reading the book, whether on the train to
work or in the comfort of your own home. We guarantee that heeding
the advice will give you as much enjoyment and satisfaction as we get
from the game that has meant so much.

Key: Abbreviations used in statistical tables

Abbreviation Explanation

HS Highest score—The highest score an individual has made in a particular

format of the game

ODI One day international—A game played between two countries and
consisting of 50 overs per side

ListA One day games—Limited over games played between first class teams

Twenty20 Twenty over games—Games of 20 overs per side

NO Not out—An innings played by a batter whereby they were not dismissed

Econ Economy—The average amount of runs conceded per over bowled

Wkts Wickets—The number of dismissals a bowler takes

5Wkts 5 wickets in an innings—The number of times a bowler takes 5 or more

wickets in an innings

BT Ave The average (batting)—The average of runs made against innings played

BW Ave The average (bowling)—The average runs made against the wicket taken

x
 Batting
B
atting in cricket is both an art and a science. Artistic players like
Brian Lara and Mahela Jayawardene enthral crowds with their
graceful movement and exquisite handwork as they thread the
ball through the fielder’s net. In contrast, scientific batters like Simon
Katich and Justin Langer study the type of delivery and field place-
ments to determine the most efficient way of scoring runs within their
repertoire of skills. In reality, most elite batters use a measure of both
art and science.
Batting caters for the power player and the deflector. Cameron
White and Kevin Pietersen brutalise the ball with raw aggression,
whilst Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar caress the ball with sweet
timing and deft placement. Since every player has to bat, a category
of batters who might be best be described as agricultural or survivors
usually occupy the tail end of the innings. Their role is either to stoutly
defend in support of a more-recognised batter or to swing the bat with
abandon, scoring as many runs as they can in their short batting time.
Given the previously mentioned range of possible roles and styles
of batting, it is little wonder that batting challenges the mind like few
other sporting skills can. It provides a unique range of involvement
that allows the batter to experience extreme emotional highs and lows.
In most bat-and-ball sports, even after a poor performance, players
have a chance to redeem themselves immediately. A baseball player
strikes out and waits for eight other batters to perform before getting
another chance. A tennis player loses 6-0 and serves 20 double faults
but then gets to start afresh in the second set. In contrast, a cricket
batter might only get to face one delivery before being dismissed from
batting for the rest of the day.
However, little doubt exists that batting highs are memorable experi-
ences. There are few better feelings in sport than making a big score
under pressure. You have experienced the satisfaction of mastering an
attack with immense concentration and have more than likely felt the

1
 wonderful joy that ripples through your body when a scorching drive
off the sweet spot of the bat pierces the field and races to the boundary.
Batters of all levels can recall such experiences vividly even when their
careers are long over. Simply put, batting can be great or miserable!
We hope this section gives you more chances to achieve batting highs.
Certain aspects of batting are considered essential. Sound tech-
nique enables the bat to meet the ball in the most efficient manner;
good balance and footwork help you assume the correct position for
playing an array of shots, and concise decision making ensures that
the correct shot is played to the ball being bowled. These essentials
have been previously covered in a structured manner through many
of books and DVDs. This book deliberately avoids the basics. Instead,
we highlight the areas of batting that are commonly forgotten or are
simply misunderstood.
In this section, the art of batting is taken to another level as we
uncover the secrets of being successful. It tells how one of the best
one-day players of all time used the wind to his advantage. It provides
a method for playing spin bowling, outlines guidance for running
between wickets, and uncovers the danger signs for batters in the
search for batting excellence; plus there are additional tips on prepar-
ing and starting innings, choosing placement, and creating innovative
strategies. Making runs is the aim of all batters. By following the 20
points in this chapter, you just might be on the way to improving your
own score.

2
 1
Starting an Innings

A
lthough every batter in the world is most susceptible at the start
of innings, we rarely practice for it. Sir Don Bradman was a
master at scoring a single from the first ball he faced. He was
keen to get his innings underway.
Sachin Tendulkar and Jacques Kallis are also very good at starting
their innings. They are both quick to pounce on anything overpitched
or short, but are very watchful with anything just outside off stump. In
fact, the ability to leave the ball pitched in the corridor of uncertainty
(just outside off stump on a good length) is a skill in itself that should
be practised whenever possible.
Another worthwhile strategy for the start of an innings is to play
within the V. Play with a relatively straight bat and avoid shots that are
square of the wicket. As a general rule, you should always be ready to
score runs, whether you are facing the first ball or the 100th ball. The
only difference is the mindset you take to the crease. If you are nervous,
frightened of failing, or wayward in your thoughts, then you are not
ready to start your innings. On the other hand, if you are comfortable
with your preparation, confident in your ability, and mentally focused,
then you are in the right frame of mind to begin.
Often it is best to maintain one key thought as you stride to the
wicket. This thought varies from player to player. Some prefer to be
conscious of getting right behind the ball, whilst others will remind
themselves to get their feet moving. The key is finding the mental
cue that suits you. This comes from training and playing as often as
you can.
Consider a good putter in golf, who stands over the ball, analyses
the line, and backs himself to make the putt. When you start your
innings, back yourself to play the right shot at the right time. You just
might surprise yourself with a very positive start and a long innings.

3
2
Seeing Off the New Ball

F
ormer Indian star Sunil Gavaskar maintained that the first hour
of a Test match was the bowler’s time, and the rest of the match
was his. He worked very hard to maintain his wicket against the
moving ball so that he could reap the rewards as his innings unfolded.
Of course, such a tactic is more suited to longer forms of the game.
In essence, the opener’s role is to ensure that the bowler’s advantage
(the new ball) is negated sufficiently in order to set up the innings for
the remainder of the team. Naturally, it is hoped that the openers set
up their own innings as well.
In one-day or Twenty20 cricket, there is little time to worry about
the new ball. An opener’s role in these games is not only to dent the
effectiveness of the moving ball, but also to ensure the run rate is
maintained from the start.
All top-order batsmen must be able to turn the strike over with quick
singles or to hit to the available outfield space (the option in the first
10 overs of a limited-overs game). When done well, these measures
ensure more victories than losses.

Sunil Gavaskar

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 125 214 10122 236 51.12 34 45 108

ODIs 108 102 3092 103 35.13 1 27 22

First-Class 348 563 25834 340 51.46 81 105 293

4
 3
Running Aggressively

D
ean Jones, arguably one of Australia’s finest one-day players,
was an outstanding runner between the wickets. He was not
only fast, but also prepared to take extra runs at every oppor-
tunity. He would challenge fielders by being aggressive in his turn.
If the fielder made a slight blunder, he was off for another run. Paul
Collingwood and A.B. de Villiers are two others who consistently run
aggressively.
When running between wickets, you must know where the ball
and fielders are just before you begin your turn. While taking a quick
glimpse, make an objective decision as to the possibility of another
run. Watch your bat slide across the crease as you turn, then explode
from the crease, ready to run.
Note two important points. First, when turning, position your body
to face the ball; don’t look over your shoulder. Second, position yourself
low in the turn so you can push off with your braced foot.
When multiple runs are obvious, you may make your first turn with
the bat in your preferred hand rather than facing the ball, particularly
if this helps facilitate a faster turn.
Of course, you don’t have to run, and you wouldn’t if the ball is
fielded cleanly and is on its return. However, the aim of your aggression
is to pressure the fielder into a mistake and to allow you that extra run.

Dean Jones

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 52 89 11 3631 216 46.55 11 34

ODIs 164 161 25 6068 145 44.61 7 54

First-Class 245 415 45 19188 324 51.85 55 185

List A 285 276 43 10936 145 46.93 19 115

5
4
Some Rules for Running
Between Wickets

A
lthough sensible, aggressive running is vital in an overall
offensive plan, it requires two-way verbal and physical com-
munication. Generally on first runs, the striker should call and
the non-striker, who is in the more advantageous position of backing
up, should react instinctively. The non-striker should assert control
in the following situations:
• The striker loses sight of the ball (the ball hits the pad and bounces
away at an unusual angle).
• The striker does not call immediately.
• There is any hesitation.
• The non-striker is clearly in a better position to assess the run
and is running to the danger end (such as when a ball is fumbled
by a keeper).
Effective running essentially revolves around good judgement, clear
and concise calling, running speed, and turning speed. Efficient run-
ning (making the most of every opportunity) combines the preced-
ing qualities with faith and trust, which evolve from training, match
conditioning, and familiarity with each team-mate’s style of play. Of
course, if there is any hesitation, shout “No” and keep an eye on your
partner. Simply turning your back is not an option.
The strike should be changed as often as possible in order to keep
the scoreboard ticking over, to unsettle the bowlers, and to give each
batter a minor break from ball-to-ball concentration.
Running between wickets is not an exact science because it involves
human judgement. However, it is trainable and very important.

6
 5
Hitting to the Gaps

H
ow often do you see a technically efficient batter striking the
ball hard to the fielders, but then failing to score? It happens
at all levels of cricket. Conversely, you may be amazed when
another batter, who has limited shot-making ability, seems to amass
consistently good scores. In such instances, the difference between the
proficient shot maker and the good scorer is the ability to hit the gaps.
When batting, it is very important to learn the art of striking the
ball between the fielders. The shot doesn’t always have to be forceful,
as long as it is well placed. It should also allow for comfortable singles
or twos to be taken. Execute a deft glance by angling the bat in the
direction you wish the ball to go or by using soft hands to drop a ball
into a vacant area close to the pitch. These two methods will help you
score without a big shot.
You will be amazed at how easy it is to keep the score ticking over
by employing this strategy. You will be even more surprised when your
own score starts mounting up. After all, batting is about scoring, not
just playing nice shots to the fielders!
Next time you are in the nets, imagine where the fielders might be
and play to the gaps. This improves your skills in a way that is real-
istic to the game situation. Remember that playing the ball along the
ground greatly reduces your chances of dismissal.

Jaques Kallis

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 140 237 11126 189 55.07 35 53 159

ODIs 303 289 10838 139 45.72 17 78 115

First-Class 230 377 17478 200 53.77 52 91 221

Twenty20 65 65 1920 89 34.28 0 17 24

7
6
Dancing
With the Spinners

T
he art of using your feet to the spinners is one of the great skills
of batting that seems to have lost favour with many coaches over
the last few years. Let’s face it, if you can get to the pitch of the
ball, you will negate spin, a key weapon of every spinner!
The confidence to come down the wicket to a spinner not only puts
pressure on the bowler, but also opens up a variety of scoring options
on both sides of the wicket.
It's not recommended that you dance down the wicket on every ball
because that habit would play into the bowler’s hand. However, if your
mind is programmed to think forward, use your own judgement about
whether or not to advance once the ball leaves the spinner’s hand.
In fact, playing back is also part of the dance. Although you press
forward slightly as you look to go down the wicket, you might actu-
ally use quick feet to get back, based on your judgement of the flight
of the ball. Such footwork can affect a bowler’s length, creating the
loose ball you are seeking.
In recent times, Brian Lara and Michael Clarke have illustrated the
value of dancing feet. They not only dance down the wicket to flighted
deliveries, but also use the crease to play offensively off the back foot.
Quick and decisive footwork is a nightmare for spin bowlers that often
awards the initiative to the batting team.
Learn to read the spin as it leaves a bowler’s hand. This allows some
assurance as to where the ball is turning as you play it. The best play-
ers of spin tend to watch the bowler’s wrist and finger action as the
ball is released. They use these cues to predict the intended spin. For
instance, when a leg-break bowler turns the wrist at delivery so that
the back of his hand faces the batter, or when the ball is bowled from
the back of the hand itself, it will likely be a wrong’un or a top spin-
ner. Alternatively, some batters pick the spin in the air as it is directed
towards them and play their shot accordingly.
Dance to spin and reap the rewards.
8
 7
Backing Up—It’s So Easy

B
acking up is possibly the easiest part of cricket. You don’t have
any pressure from the bowler or the fielders, and you don’t need
to be the best batter. However, plenty of examples of neglecting
this aspect of the game still exist at the highest level.
The rule states that a non-striker cannot be run out once the bowler
enters the delivery stride. Therefore, all non-strikers should watch the
bowler during delivery and leave the crease as he plants his back foot,
just prior to release. They should also increase their momentum so
that they are ready to run, assuming a position approximately 2 metres
down the pitch when the bat impacts the ball.
If the ball is pitched short, a non-striker can actually get farther
down the pitch without fearing that the ball will be struck straight back
to the bowler. However, if the ball is pitched up, it might be struck
straight down the wicket. Therefore, exercise more caution with the
distance used when leaving the crease.
Whatever the situation, you must not be stationary on the batter’s
call. Be ready to run, have some momentum, and be alert to both the
batter’s call and your own assessment of the play.

Sachin Tendulkar

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 169 276 13837 248 56.02 48 56 106

ODIs 442 431 17598 200 45.12 46 93 134

First-Class 272 428 22730 248 59.34 75 102 174

List A 529 516 21150 200 45.87 57 111 169

Twenty20 41 41 1437 89 39.91 0 11 18

9
8
Improvising—
A Risky Business

S
ometimes in a game, a batter has to take the initiative from the
bowler. This can be a daunting task, particularly if you haven’t
scored for a while and the fielders are placed in very defensive
positions. It is therefore crucial that you develop a slightly unorthodox
way of scoring. Many of these shots have now come to the fore since
the advent of Twenty20 cricket.
Some players improvise with a lofted shot, while others advance
down the wicket (even to a quick bowler), looking either to score square
of the wicket or to hit as straight as possible, depending on the field
placements. Another option is to give yourself room by backing away
slightly towards the one side. This allows you to drive a ball square on
the stumps. Another improvisational method is to walk across your
stumps to play to a vacant spot on the leg side. Whatever your style,
watch the ball closely and maintain balance at contact.
One of the more fashionable methods, particularly late in a one-day
game when the bowlers are trying to bowl yorkers, is to position your-
self across the stumps and lap the ball to fine leg. You must practice
this shot thoroughly before executing it in a match. Sachin Tendulkar
plays this shot with aplomb.
Similarly, a reverse sweep is a risky shot. However, if perfected, it
can be a surprise weapon when the outfield behind the wicket on the
off side is vacant.
Switch hitting to heave the ball over midwicket has also evolved.
Kevin Pietersen has perfected this art. Some play this shot with a
normal right hander's grip, but Pietersen changes the position of his
hands to great effect. His left-handed approach often sends the ball
sailing over the boundary, much to the chagrin of the cover fielders.
If you decide to improvise, remember the risks. You must be very
confident in your ability. Also, you can reduce the risk by keeping the
ball on the ground. At least you won’t be caught!

10
 9
Reading the Game

I
nterestingly, most of us seem to be better players off the field than
on it! We see all the mistakes, criticise the performance, and offer
wonderful insights on how something should be done. That is, we
say a lot until we have to actually do it.
Batting is one of the most difficult skills in cricket, simply because
you often only get one chance. You must balance risk with surety,
knowing when to up the attack, when to defend stoutly, and when to
improvise.
In general, the best time to sum up the state of the game is at the end
of each over. Learn the situation of the game by discussing strategy
and exchanging words of advice with your batting partner. Likewise,
when there is time to assess a game situation during a break in play, it
is often useful for a coach or captain to re-emphasise the state of play.
Reading a game incorporates the following abilities:
• Summing up game situations (Is the run rate appropriate to the
situation?)
• Analysing and implementing methods to support the best strategy
(supporting a partner who is scoring freely)
• Adapting to the changing fortunes of a game (reducing risk when
wickets are falling around you and planning to up the rate when
a partnership is established)
• Assessing the opposition bowlers’ strengths and weaknesses in
order to negate or manipulate them (It is also useful to know
which bowlers are more easily attacked.)
Although star batters are not necessarily the best readers of books in
the world, they are the usually the best readers of a game.

11
10
Farming the Strike

T
he ability to turn over the strike is a very important part of
batting. Similarly, sometimes it is just as important to farm the
strike, maintaining it so that your partner is not exposed to a
particular bowler.
An obvious instance is when a recognised batter is batting with the
number 11, and more runs must be scored without concerns of time
or overs. In this case, the recognised batter should work diligently to
keep the strike, neglecting singles until late in an over and protecting
the number 11 from facing many balls.
If, during a one-day game, a batter is left with just one or two wickets
and runs are of high priority, he should work diligently to score twos
or boundaries, looking for a single (or a three) late in an over.
Of course, sometimes the non-recognised batter’s sole responsibility
is to simply support the batter, negating the bowling rather than pro-
ducing runs. Former Australian captain Steve Waugh seldom farmed
the strike, since he believed every player in the team was capable of
supporting him and adding to the team total.
Whatever the case in your particular team, both batters must clearly
understand their responsibilities and have faith in each other to do
the job.

Steve Waugh

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 168 260 10927 200 51.06 32 50 112

ODIs 325 288 7569 120 32.9 3 45 111

First-Class 356 551 24052 216 51.94 79 97 273

12
 11
Lofting With the Wind

H
itting in the air may be dangerous, but the risk of hitting into
the wind is twice that. Many times exist in a game (particularly
in a one-day or a Twenty20 match) in which a lofted shot is a
reasonable option. These include the end of an innings when bound-
aries are required to lift the scoring rate or a situation in which the
fielders are surrounding the wicket area and the best option is to go
over the top. When a large open space is left in the outfield, a lofted
shot to that area is relatively safe.
Whatever the situation, you should always sum up the wind factor.
When possible, ensure that your lofted shots are played with the wind.
It is amazing how much farther the ball will go with the wind’s assis-
tance. Conversely, a ball hit into the wind tends to suspend its flight,
giving fielders time to turn, run, and catch it before it lands.
Former international player Dean Jones was fastidious with his
lofted shots, hoping to tail his loft on side shots (a bit like a draw shot
in golf) when the wind was blowing in the right direction. His abil-
ity to implement this strategy was developed through many years of
practice and refinement. Don’t expect the same results without due
diligence to your own training methods.
In more recent times, with the introduction of power plays and
Twenty20 cricket, the lofted shot has become a major part of the
game. Players like Brendon McCullum, M.S. Dhoni, Albie Morkel,
and Kevin Pietersen rarely make errors with this shot. They sum up
the field, target certain bowlers, and assess which end has the most
helpful wind conditions.
Of course, there are times when hitting into the wind might be the
only worthwhile option. Hopefully, you’ll do this when the boundary is
short, the outfield is empty, and there are plenty of batters still to come.

13
12
Staying Alert
as a Night Watchman:
Don’t Go to Sleep!

B
eginning an innings at the end of a day’s play is often a batter’s
worst nightmare. We can all visualise the scene: There are 20
minutes to stumps, a wicket falls, and you have to see out the
day’s play. As a recognised batter, you don’t have enough time to
really start your innings, and you just wish the captain had used a
night watchman. What if you are the night watchman? What are your
responsibilities? How do you prepare? What tactics do you employ?
Of course, the answer to these questions can vary according to the
conditions, the state of play, and individual batting characteristics.
However, every night watchman should adhere to some basic expec-
tations.
First, a night watchman must want to bat. Going out to bat with a
defeated attitude is a recipe for disaster. You must approach the task
with enthusiasm, courage, and confidence, seeing the situation as an
opportunity rather than a burden.
Second, being a night watchman often elevates a batter up the order,
giving him a chance to make a score the next day if he can survive
those last few overs at the end of a day.
Third, the night watchman must know the best method of defence
and use attacking strokes carefully. This doesn’t mean that you close
up and fail to look for scoring opportunities. Since the field is often
up around the bat, there are plenty of gaps in which to score. Take
runs when you can, putting pressure back on the fielding team. A
sound defence, coupled with controlled stroke making, is always the
preferred option.
Whether the established batter or the night watchman should seek
more of the strike is often debated. Our preference in most instances
is for the better player to take responsibility, since he has the better
technique and temperament to survive.
14
 13
Using the Bowling
Machine Wisely

I
n the last 10 years, the bowling machine has become a necessity,
rather than a luxury, for the serious trainer. It has relieved the
bowler from overtraining and has enabled all players to get plenty
of bat-on-ball practice to improve their technical skills, particularly
in problem areas.
For instance, players can set the machine for short-pitched balls
in order to practice their back-foot work. Conversely, if a player is
struggling with drives, the machine can provide repetitive deliveries
in a designated area. Hitting more than 100 balls in just 30 minutes
certainly assists skill development, as long as the skill is being practised
correctly. This method of learning is often called blocked practice.
The machine can also be used to subtly change speed, length, or
direction so that the batter learns to respond to varied deliveries. This
type of random practice more realistically simulates the way that bowl-
ers try to deceive the batter.
Once batters become accustomed to a bowling machine, they may
want to seek other challenges. For instance, if the machine is set to
pitch the ball on a good length, batters may use their feet to make the
ball fuller. They can also try to work the ball for runs, which might
be required in the latter stages of a one-day game, or hit it into a des-
ignated gap in the field. They may specifically use it to practice more
unorthodox shots, such as the lap shot to fine leg or the reverse sweep.
These types of drills develop batters’ capabilities, helping them
extend their talents beyond the normal defensive shot to a well-pitched
delivery.
Be warned that the best players use vital cues, such as body posi-
tion, arm angle, and ball release from bowling actions, to initiate their
shots. Use the bowling machine wisely, since nothing can replace the
real bowler.

15
14
The Communication
Triangle When an Injured
Batter Isn’t Running

A
lthough it might not happen a lot, you may be asked to run for
an injured batter. You will need to adjust many of your calling
principles, particularly when you are standing at square leg.
First, you must present yourself at the wicket in protective gear that
is identical to that of the injured batter.
Second, when the injured batter is facing, you must stay behind
an imaginary, extended popping crease (usually in a square-leg posi-
tion) until the ball is played. If you fail to do so, you can be run out
or stumped at any time.
Third, you must run a little more conservatively, only responding
and calling when definite runs are to be taken. Since three callers
may be involved, remember the old saying that ‘too many cooks spoil
the broth.’
As a general rule, the batter should continue to call the majority
of runs. Both the runner and the non-striker should respond accord-
ingly. Of course, the non-striker can still take responsibility when a
call is late or when the ball is deflected off the pads or goes behind the
wicketkeeper. In all instances, the calls must be given loudly and often.
The two runners must call during multiple runs, since they may be
as far as 20 metres apart. The injured runner should be aware of the
situation, assisting with a call if necessary.
Running for an injured batter, particularly when he is on strike,
involves the utmost concentration. Since this skill is not practised,
you must rely on your own assumptions, awareness, and a very clear
communication triangle.

16
 15
Breaks in Batting Equal
Breaks in Concentration—
Be Warned!

I
f we accept that starting an innings is the toughest part of batting,
then we must also acknowledge that restarting an innings after a
break is one of the most vulnerable times for any batter. At this
stage, the batter is often comfortable—the innings is starting to bloom,
some momentum is building in a partnership, and the bowlers might
be starting to lose their edge. Batters beware!
The most noted mistake is the loss of a wicket directly after a
drink break. During this over, all batters need to be diligent in their
concentration.
Before a drink break, if a batter has been in for awhile, he is usually
well settled, very focused, and, if runs are flowing, in a batting zone. He
is ready and able to pounce on anything loose and to punish it accord-
ingly, but he is also able to maintain a sound defence. After a break in
play, his concentration may be relaxed, with dire consequences. When
you restart your innings, flick the switch. Practise mental imagery at
the end of the break to prepare yourself for play.
Batters must always resume an innings as if they are starting it
again, with the utmost diligence and concentration. There is no room
for complacency. If the little man in your head starts saying things
like, ‘I’m settled now, this is easy,’ watch out! The break in play might
bring a break in concentration.

Brian Lara

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 131 232 11953 400 52.88 34 48 164

ODIs 299 289 10405 169 40.48 19 63 120

First-Class 261 440 22156 501 51.88 65 88 320

17
16
Ones and Twos
Make Sense

F
or most centuries made, at least half the scoring shots are ones
and twos, not threes, fours, and sixes. Therefore, unless you are
practising for a Twenty20 game, work on controlled shots to gaps
rather than big shots over the top.
Scoring singles can be the easiest part of batting, as long as you are
always ready to run. Just as a deft deflection to fine leg or third man
can be productive, a perfectly played, block-and-run defensive shot
can produce a run. This art of turning over the strike is as important
as making any boundary shot, simply because it happens a lot more
frequently than the big cover drive does. Therefore, spend more time
on the finer skills of your batting than on practising boundaries.
In the nets, imagine that every shot you play is a scoring shot. Make
a call each time you strike the ball, even if you have blocked it down the
wicket. Get in the habit so that you are ready for the quick run when
the ball finds the gap or when it is hit into the infield slowly enough
that a fielder would have no chance to run you out.
In recent times in one-day cricket, scoring twos when the fielders
are closer to the boundary has become more of a focus. A slowly struck
ball often means that outfielders must cover 30 metres or more before
reaching the ball, enabling a two to be run quite safely. Balls hit wide
of fine leg and third man also create opportunities for twos to be taken.
Consistent ones and twos will both improve your ability to make
runs and make your batting more enjoyable. The ability to score from
a defensive prod is very annoying to a bowler, but is very productive for
your team. In essence, don’t give away your big shots, but understand
the importance of the clever ones.

18
 17
Beware the Full Toss

A
s a rather erratic part-time spinner, I learnt at an early age never
to underestimate the power of the full toss as an attacking part of
my repertoire. Early in my career, my teammates would often emit
a loud shrill as the fullie floated down towards the wide-eyed batter. Often
they would cover up all delicate body parts, turn their backs on the contest,
and rarely make eye contact with me as they shook their head in disdain
at my ineptness. As I got older, I still seemed to bowl high, full tosses, but I
was able to camouflage them as part of my strategy because so often they
had brought success.
(Ken Davis)
It is very difficult not to hit the high, full toss in the air. Batters typi-
cally try to belt the cover off the ball, only to see it lob into the waiting
hands of a fielder in the deep. The secret to playing this delivery is to
recognise the inherent dangers as it approaches. Hit down on the ball,
but do not use full power. Place it in a gap and aim for a boundary,
not a six. You can score off the ball, but make sure you see the caution
light as it spirals towards your bat!

Brendon McCullum

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 52 87 2862 185 34.9 5 16 162

ODIs 171 145 3569 166 29.01 2 17 189

T20Is 40 40 1100 116 33.33 1 6 125

First-Class 95 163 5339 185 34.66 9 30 267

Twenty20 98 97 2695 158 32.08 3 14 48

19
18
A Wicket Falls—You’re In!

O
ften, as you wait with your pads on for a wicket to fall while
chatting to team-mates about all sorts of unrelated matters,
you can be lulled into a very relaxed state. Although such
engagement can lighten any tension you may be feeling, it makes it
difficult to perform when a wicket eventually falls. In essence, you
have two minutes to get yourself physically and mentally ready to
face your first delivery against a bowler, who is on top of the world at
that moment.
Just as golfers and tennis players have pre-shot routines, batters in
cricket must develop routines to ensure they do not drift into the contest
with inappropriate focus. These are the recommended steps to follow:
• The moment the wicket falls, take a deep breath and loosen up
your shoulders to relax a little.
• Stay seated and imagine the way you want to start your innings. If
facing pace bowling, you might see yourself playing with a short
backlift, presenting a full face, and leaving a ball that doesn’t need
to be played. Imagine moving your feet quickly.
• Stand up and do some running on the spot to rid your body of
any lethargy.
• Walk out to bat with positive energy and practise some shots.
• Take your guard from the umpire with an authoritative tone in
your voice: ‘Two centres please, umpire.’
• Be quick to assert yourself on the game with strong and decisive
calls. You will soon be in a flow state and on your way to another
ton.
In essence, walking to the crease is a lonely exercise, full of nervous
anticipation. Those who are ready to bat, both mentally and physically,
are a step ahead of the rest.

20
 19
Wag the Tail

A
ustralia’s success in world cricket during the late 1990s and
early 2000s indicates the value of tail-end players who bat with
determination, defiance, belief, and even skill. During this
period, Australia recovered from a precarious position many times to
control the game through the efforts of players, such as Shane Warne,
Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, and Jason Gillespie.
Opposition bowlers have difficulty countering two styles of tail-end
batting. The first is epitomised by Warne, who, it has to be said, was
more than a typical tail-ender. His boldness and unorthodoxy often
resulted in quick runs and eased the pressure on the batter in the
partnership who was more experienced. Whilst Warne was scoring
freely, his partner was able to work the ball around with minimum risk.
The standard approach is to develop a rock-solid defence and the
ability to work the ball for the paramount objective. You must know
how to use your pads to defend balls outside the danger zone, and you
should not play at balls that are not on the stumps. Most importantly,
you must be a good runner. Back up and remain alert to the situation
in the over to facilitate the better batter receiving more of the strike.
Gillespie typified this style, impressing with his ability to play late and
to move his feet both forwards and backwards when required.
We teach tail-enders to defend first and to develop shots once they
have improved their technique. Since a tail-ender invariably partners
a better batter, a safe, resolute, Gillespie-like approach is the most
reliable way of thwarting opposition bowlers. The Englishman Ashley
Giles also typified this approach.
If you are a bowler, make it your goal to win games through your
batting. In a season of cricket, you can rest assured that tail-enders will
have many of these opportunities, so wag your tail and become a hero.

21
20
Staying in by Getting
to the Other End

P
ressure builds on a batter as more dot balls are delivered. He hits the
ball repeatedly to the fielders, or is unable to make adequate contact
with the ball. A quick glance at the scoreboard shows that the score is
stagnating, time is dwindling, and the target is getting out of reach. Look
out, a wild shot is coming!
(Ken Davis)
We suspect that the preceding scenario is seen in most cricket games.
We all know that the way to relieve scoreboard pressure is to create
singles, but do we know how to execute that plan?
The first strategy is to look for the spaces in the field. Don’t look
where the fielders are; look at the gaps. With every forceful stroke,
intend to hit the ball through the gaps by subtly changing the bat
angle at contact. It can be bemusing when players instinctively play
a shot to the delivery without any apparent quest to score. If it goes
to a fielder, they say ‘Well, that was the shot the ball demanded. Nice
shot that, timed it beautifully. Well bowled, old chap.’ Still, the player
didn’t score! Try something different next time. Use your wrists to
direct the ball to space so you can get to the other end for a breather.
The second strategy in our search for singles is to look for tip-and-
run opportunities by using soft hands at impact with the ball. Make
sure your partner is backing up, let the ball come to you, and give a
little at impact. Drop the ball into an area that is close to the bat but
not in line with any fielder, including the bowler, and then run like the
wind! For extra insurance, try to position yourself between the likely
thrower and the wicket to which you are running.
The third strategy is to hit the ball to the side of the pitch with fewer
fielders. Although this is typically the leg side, it may vary. If you prac-
tice turning the ball on the leg side to balls pitching on line with the
stumps, you will significantly increase your capacity to score singles.

22
 The fourth strategy is to consider the dab through the slips area if the
field is not too attacking. This shot is not recommended on a bouncy,
fast wicket. If the shot is considered relatively safe, let the ball come
to you. Play off the back foot and use the pace of the ball to guide it
through the slips area. Close watching of the ball is paramount and
soft hands are an advantage.
The fifth strategy is to dance down the wicket to medium-pace
bowlers or spinners and to hit wide of mid-on or mid-off. Since the
momentum gained from the shot decreases the running distance
compared to playing from the crease, you can often reach your ground
quite safely.
Once you are locked into finding solutions with singles, you will
always be up at the other end. A century is on the way.

Kevin Pietersen

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 66 117 5306 226 47.8 16 20 39

ODIs 104 94 3332 116 42.17 7 20 32

T20Is 28 28 911 79 37.95 0 5 10

First-Class 153 255 11686 254 49.3 38 49 119

Twenty20 57 57 1636 79 32.72 0 9 19

23
This page intentionally left blank
 Bowling
I
n the middle of the 18th century, an innovative cricketer developed
the overarm bowling action to replace the traditional underarm
delivery. At that time, he could not have imagined the changes
that would occur in the next 250 years of cricket bowling in coun-
tries around the world. During his last Test match when W.G. Grace
sauntered in from the nursery end at Lord’s Cricket Ground with his
shirt flapping in the breeze around his substantial waistline, he could
not have predicted how the simple movement he had perfected with
unerring accuracy could evolve into the complex bowling of today.
As Test cricket began its journey in the late 19th century, the impos-
ing figure of W.G. Grace took centre stage. Although he was revered
more for his batting, Grace started out as a fast bowler of some renown.
Throughout his distinguished career, as corpulence took over from
athleticism, the pace of his roundarm deliveries subsided considerably.
I imagine that in his later years, he barely got out of a trot as he
approached the wicket (my apologies to the Grace family for my
poetic licence). He would have rolled into a side-on position rather
than a launched one, his bowling arm would have been straight, and
his roundarm delivery would have been steered. At 50 years of age,
he would not have hurled the ball towards the batter.
If you contrast that image to the thundering aggression of D.K.
Lillee or Malcolm Marshall, the scything swing of Sir Ian ‘Beefy’
Botham or James Anderson, and the prodigious spin of Shane Warne,
you can see that bowling has evolved into an art form that is blessed
with both raw aggression and subtlety.
Nowadays, we have doosras, zooters, knuckle balls, fast bouncers,
slow bouncers, the inswing, the outswing, the reverse swing, arm
balls, top spinners, and wrong’uns. The bowling arm can be straight
or bent to 15 degrees. You can sling like Tait, mesmerize like Mendis,
or bounce like Broad in the continual search to explore bowling’s
outer limits.

25
 This section aims not to discuss the techniques of bowling, but
to focus on becoming a smarter bowler in terms of both preparation
and performance. In addition to discussing bowling plans, it speaks
to looking after the ball like a favourite toy. It stresses persisting while
controlling and masking subtle changes in each delivery. Finally, it
shows the importance of adapting your bowling to cope with a variety
of environmental conditions.

26
 21
Bowling to Plans

A
lthough the coaching staff might do the pre-game planning
and the captain controls the on-field tactics, it is the bowler
who initiates the play. Subsequently, when a team strategy
is put into place, it is the bowler’s responsibility to ensure the ball is
delivered to suit the plan.
Consider the following examples:
• Keeping a batter on strike. A bowler might deliver a bouncer or a
yorker at the end of an over to ensure the non-striker (who may be a
weaker batter, or even a new batter) is kept on strike for the next over.
• Bowling yorkers at the death. With the field positioned fairly straight,
the bowler aims at the batter’s crease, hopefully forcing the batter to
play only off or on drives. This is particularly effective during the
last few overs of a one-day game, when the bowler must ensure that a
batter cannot lift a ball over the field for a boundary.
• Bowling a slower ball. Changing pace is a crucial tactic, particu-
larly in a one-day game when the batting team is on the offensive. It is
employed to upset the batter’s timing in full swing, hopefully creating
a mistimed lofted shot. It may even deceive the batter to the extent
that he completely misses the ball.
Like pitchers in baseball, the bowler is solely responsible for put-
ting the ball into play. Therefore, he must be diligent in his execution,
aware of the batter’s strengths and weaknesses (when possible), and
able to adjust to set plans as required.
Although the coach and captain are the architects who draw up the
plan, the bowler starts the building process.

Sir Richard Hadlee

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 86 150 21918 9611 431 22.29 2.63 36

ODIs 115 112 6182 3407 158 21.56 3.3 5

27
22
Shine, Don’t Whine!

I
t is often wrongly thought that a fast bowler is the only person
responsible for shining the ball. In fact, the whole team is respon-
sible for ensuring that one side of the ball is continually kept shiny.
This intent not only allows fast bowlers to swing the ball when it is
new, but also ensures that the ball is maintained in a condition that
will eventually assist the phenomenon of reverse swing.
Reverse swing occurs when the two sides of the ball substantially
differ in condition. One side is usually rougher and duller than the
other, which is hopefully smoother and shinier. When bowled with the
right velocity and the correct seam placement, the ball tends to swing
in the direction of the shiny side.
The ability to bowl a reverse swing depends on the playing condi-
tions. A dry, barren pitch tends to rough up balls quickly. If enough
shine can be imparted to one side of the ball, reverse swing is definitely
possible.
On the other hand, grassy conditions of play cause little ball abra-
sion, so a normal swing is a much better option.
Whatever the case, shine the ball whenever you get a chance. It just
might provide the edge you are seeking.

Glenn McGrath

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 124 243 29248 12186 563 21.64 2.49 29

ODIs 250 248 12970 8391 381 22.02 3.88 7

First-Class 189 41759 17414 835 20.85 2.5 42

Twenty20 19 19 432 492 20 24.5 6.83 0

28
 23
Persist, Persist, Persist:
A Bowler’s Mantra

A
t the end of each season, a bowler is generally rated by his
average or by the number of wickets he has taken. Whatever
the case, if bowlers have done well at either, they have usually
had a good year. However, bowlers’ strike rates and economy rates are
probably neither understood nor often considered.
For example, the great leg spinner Shane Warne holds countless
records for wickets taken. He has done so with few runs scored against
him. Although Warne’s record has been amazing, very few people know
his strike rate. (Have a guess! The answer is in the next paragraph. If
you haven’t looked yet, here’s a clue: It is not as low as you would think!)
To be a great bowler on very good wickets and against accomplished
batters, you must persistently land the ball on a good length and on
a good line, with enough subtle variation to pressure the batter into a
mistake. Warne has been a master at this. Although he (and others)
may have expected a wicket every time he bowled, he had the ability
and guise to set batters up by continually landing the ball in areas of
uncertainty. He didn’t claim a wicket every over. In fact, it took him
approximately 10 overs to get a wicket! His strike rate was just under
the 60 mark.
Also, because he was so accurate, he had a very low economy rate.
This meant that the opposition always had to force the pace if they
were to amass a respectable score. Since they were never given easy
runs, they were always under pressure.
Two of the greatest bowlers of all time, Sir Richard Hadlee and
Glenn McGrath, were Scrooge-like when giving away runs. They also
only averaged a wicket every 50 balls or so.
So, the next time you have a chance to bowl, don’t expect a wicket
every time. Bowl your type of delivery with appropriate pace, swing,
or spin. Bowl accurately and on a good length, and do so consistently.
Before you know it, you will be getting more wickets than you thought
possible, with a respectable economy rate.
29
24
Bowling Is Just Like
Archery: Hit the Spot
to Win Gold!

T
he ability to hit a bullseye with a bow and arrow is mandatory
for any archer who wants to win an Olympic gold medal. Simi-
larly, a dart thrower who can repeatedly pinpoint a triple 20 and
a shooter who can hit a clay target within seconds of its release will
both win many competitions. To even come close to achieving these
results, athletes must train day after day, hour after hour. Can the same
be said about bowling? The answer is obviously no, simply because
more physical demands are placed on a bowler than on archers and
dart throwers, who can repeat their skill without experiencing physi-
cal duress.
However, these more passive sports can teach us how to maintain
concentration in order to record perfect scores on a consistent basis.
Every top-line bowler in the world, from the time of Test cricket to
the fashionable, shorter games of today, has been able to bowl the ball
on the spot where he intended it to land. This ability does not develop
without practice.
Whether you are an up-and-coming youngster or a trained pro-
fessional, you must continually master your craft. Just as a baseball
pitcher often practices by throwing at targets on a wall or to a catcher’s
glove position, a bowler should practice the skill of bowling without
interference. This means that you should direct some of your training
at targets on the pitch or to the hands of a wicketkeeper, rather than
against batters. By doing this, you can perfect your accuracy without
outside influences or the pressure of a batter. Obviously, your next test
will be against a batter in the nets. Once you are confident, you can
take your learned skill into the match.

30
 25
Analyse, Don’t Criticise!

A
lthough it is very easy to blame others when something goes
amiss, the better player looks at a performance with analytical
eyes rather than critical ones. Statistics are useful indicators
of performance; however, for the players and those closely connected
to the team, the figures only tell half the story.
For instance, a bowler who bowls at the death in a one-day game
may end up with some easy wickets, since the batting team take mul-
tiple risks in order to increase the scoring rate. For this reason, the
economy rate would be a better indication of a bowler’s performance
in a one-day game than the wickets he took. Obviously, the ideal situa-
tion is a combination of wickets with a low economy rate. However, the
economy rate is rarely displayed, particularly at lower levels of cricket.
Therefore, many bowlers are given false rewards for their wicket haul.
In analysing a bowler’s performance, look beyond the final figures
in the right-hand column of the scorebook. The following questions
must be asked of each bowler:
• Were the batters top- or lower-order players?
• At what stage of the game did he bowl?
• Did he bowl to a team plan (The object may have been to bowl
negatively to certain players and more aggressively to others.)?
• Was he able to do specific jobs (Did he keep certain batters on or
off strike at the end of an over?)?
Coaches who are evaluating a game closely may find it beneficial to
subjectively rank each ball as good, OK, or poor. Often, perfectly
executed balls (which would be ranked as good) are dispatched to the
boundary along an edge or by a cross-batted slog over the leg side.
Analysing bowlers in this way at least provides them with feedback on
their execution, rather than just their effectiveness.
Those who are technically minded (and all coaches should be) can
take advantage of the many software programs available that provide
appropriate statistics.

31
26
Use the Wind
to Your Advantage

O
n windy days, a fast bowler’s first reaction is usually one of
delight, especially if he is going to bowl with the wind behind
him. Speed is at the forefront of his mind. Of course, some-
one has to bowl from the other end into the wind. That job is often
given to the pace bowler, who is slower and more controlled. If this
particular bowler can swing the ball, he should be licking his lips.
The wind actually becomes a natural weapon that assists the swerve
or swing of the ball. Of course, the ball will not swing just because of
the wind. It still needs to be released with the correct seam position
and the appropriate wrist action.
It is also worth noting that many of the fastest bowlers in the world
bowl into the wind in the last overs of a one-day game. A sharp yorker
is the most difficult ball to play, so it makes sense to use your best (and
fastest) bowler when batters are having free swings.
Similarly, spin bowlers should be encouraged to bowl into the wind
as much as possible. Nothing is harder to play than a perfectly delivered
ball that dips in the air and spins on landing.
Some leg-spinners are adamant that the best condition is when
the wind blows down the wicket from a leg-slip to a mid-off position
(assuming that the batter is right-handed). In this instance, if the ball
is given sufficient spin and delivered with appropriate flight, it will dip
quickly as it reaches the batter. Hopefully, it is delivered with enough
deception to create an error. More overspin on the ball will produce
more dip.
Some bowlers prefer the wind to come from a first-slip position
(assuming a right-handed batter). These leggies feel that such a wind
produces a drifting effect that moves the ball slightly from left to
right. The wind also slows the ball. This effect can produce a caught
and bowled chance, since the batter plays too early. The ball drifts in

32
and turns away from the batter, increasing the challenge of playing
the right line.
Off-spinners, left-arm wrist spinners, and finger spinners can create
similar results by using the wind to provide variation in the flight of
the ball.
Whatever the case, spin bowlers must practice in all types of condi-
tions to determine which wind direction suits them best. They must
prepare a plan for bowling in any condition.

33
27
Practise Like
Tennis Players

T
ennis players typically practise their craft every day for at least
a couple of hours. If you average a forehand every five seconds
of a practice session, then a session of two hours yields around
1,400 forehands. It is no surprise that Roger Federer and Andy Murray
hit the ball so precisely under pressure.
A typical cricketer at club level practises twice per week, with lim-
ited work in the off season. At most, that habit produces around 150
deliveries per week. It’s no wonder that young spinners can’t land the
ball with the precision of Rafael Nadal’s serve!
We recognise that pace bowlers need to be concerned about overuse
injuries. However, if they learn a safe bowling technique, then perhaps
they can undertake more skill practice. Spinners do not experience
as much wear and tear on the body, so they may be able to practise
more frequently.
At any rate, if you can’t land the ball where you want, you are giving
the batter a free hit. Why not save yourself the trouble and give him a
batting tee so he can slam the ball to the boundary? Spinning the ball
is one thing, but control is essential. It builds pressure on batters who
are waiting for a loose ball to attempt a scoring shot.
Bowling is both a tactical and physical skill. Physically, it is a target
sport, much like the serve in tennis. If you practise bowling to a spot
on the pitch every day, your techniques will be more likely to stand
up under pressure. Shane Warne, Andrew Flintoff, and Anil Kumble
are magnificent examples of the value of control when building up
pressure on a batter. Commit yourself to a daily practice of your craft,
and you will also be able to make the big serve when needed.

34
 28
Learn to Mask
Your Deliveries

I
t is often debated whether bowlers should worry about deceiving
batters with their variation deliveries. Some argue that it doesn’t
matter, since the batters still have to deal with different deliveries.
Surely, this is an excuse from bowlers who have very obvious change-
ups. Subtle changes can mean that the batter will pick up cues later in
the delivery, inhibiting the plan of attack.
Typically, spinners try to conceal their wrong’uns or doosras so
that batters are deceived by the delivery. Most good players become
excellent at reading the spin in the air. From a bowler’s perspective,
however, later detection creates more uncertainty for the batter. Play-
ers who read the spin well should be given a different look at the same
style of delivery. For these players, bowl across the seam as well as
along the seam.
Wrist spinners should learn to bowl big-spinning deliveries, as well
as those that spin marginally, by altering the wrist position at release.
Another useful strategy might be to bowl a very obvious wrong’un,
followed by one that is more difficult to detect. Some spinners, such
as Harbhajan Singh, spin both along the seam and across the seam.
These deliveries, which are essentially the same, create different looks.
Fast bowlers should sometimes hide their grip on the ball with
the non-bowling hand as they run in. This deters early detection of
a change-up delivery. India’s Zaheer Khan effectively utilises this
strategy, often surprising batters with the swing direction he achieves.
Faster bowlers should also try to approach the wicket with consistent
velocity patterns, regardless of delivery type. The bouncer is often
accompanied by an energetic run-up that does little to mask the
delivery.
A good test is to ask experienced batters what they look for when
studying variation balls and whether they can easily detect differences.
Next, work on masking your technique to confuse everyone but the
wicketkeeper!
35
29
Variety Is the Spice
of Bowling Life

O
pposite points of view often both have merit. In bowling,
popular opinion seems to support the notion that control of a
stock delivery is the lynchpin for success. Of course, bowlers
should develop a consistent delivery that can land the ball on the spot.
If practiced ad infinitum, these deliveries are more likely to stand up
under pressure.
Having said that, some players possess the artistic talent to explore
the wide variety of deliveries at their disposal. They challenge the
boundaries and discover new techniques. Although these bowlers typi-
cally have less control over their deliveries because of the high degree
of difficulty, they may be more potent in terms of wicket taking. Such
players may take longer to control their art, but can form effective
partnerships with tighter, more controlled bowling.
Recently, we have had the good fortune to work with an outstanding
junior spin bowler. His physical assets, combined with artistic talent
and intellect, are second to none. There is no doubt that he can do
things with a cricket ball that even the great Shane Warne can’t do.
It was inevitable that he would be judged harshly by the more
conservative players in our fraternity when he entered adult cricket.
He was criticised for bowling ‘liquorice all sorts’ in his ever-constant
desire to confuse batters with subtle changes. He took a few beltings
that affected his confidence. Although it was agreed that he needed
to harness his quest for bowling thrills, he still needed encouragement
to develop his craft and to keep from eliminating balls over which
he had limited control. His thirst for discovery and experimentation
needed to be nurtured. We also alerted him to the need for a reliable
leg-break delivery. In short, we needed a balanced view on this issue.
At the international level, Muttiah Muralitharan and Nathan
Bracken have built their substantial reputations on their ability to bowl

36
variety balls. It remains to be seen which method works best. Clearly,
we need bowlers with control because they won’t be retained by cap-
tains if they don’t have it. However, the artist needs more time. He
should spend a portion of every training session playing with the ball to
add variety to his repertoire. Those who possess the art are indeed rare.
We should avoid developing clones who bowl with optimum control
but limited variation. If bowling attacks are the cream on afternoon
tea cakes, variety is the spice in the cream!

Andrew Flintoff

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 79 137 14951 7410 226 32.78 2.97 3

ODIs 141 119 5624 4121 169 24.38 4.39 2

First-Class 183 22799 11059 350 31.59 2.91 4

List A 282 9416 6536 289 22.61 4.16 2

Twenty 20 29 25 525 609 30 20.3 6.96 0

37
30
Six-Packs Can Be Spun
for More Fun!

T
he repetitive nature of skill practice often leads athletes to simply
go through the motions in training sessions. When bowling,
players are often not accountable for their actions because no
one else knows their target. To give bowlers more purpose and moti-
vation, try a group of deliveries bowled in a sequence of six (an over).
These limitless six-packs challenge the bowler’s imagination. Essen-
tially, the task involves developing a pattern of deliveries that can be
utilised in a game to deceive the batter. The following examples have
been used with young wrist spinners:
• Five stock leg breaks on an off-stump line, followed by one that
is higher, slower, and wider (often effective with tail-end batters)
• Five leg breaks to a left-hander, followed by a wrong’un to entice
a drive
• A sequence of three overspinning leg breaks, one big spinning leg
break, one top spinner, and one overspinning leg break
• Four flat leg-spinners, one flighted leggie outside off, and a flighted
top spinner
• A starter over: six balls delivered one-third of a metre outside off
stump that are full length
• Four flighted leg-spinners (on or outside off stump), one top
spinner that is shorter and wider outside off stump, and then a
wrong’un on the same line
• Four short-of-length leg-spinners outside off stump that entice
the cut shot, one short-of-length wrong’un, followed by leg break
that is wider, fuller, and slower to entice catch-in covers

38
 • Six leg breaks on the same length, starting on the leg-stump line
and moving a little more to the off side with each delivery
• Five leg breaks followed by a backspinner (flipper or zooter)
The same approach could be mirrored with pace bowlers. When play-
ers practice these six-packs, their practice is more purposeful. They
are learning to develop combinations of deliveries that might be use-
fully employed in games. Spin a web of six-packs and do more than
impress the opposite sex!

Sir Garfield Sobers

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 93 160 21 8032 365 57.78 26 109

First-Class 383 609 93 28314 365 54.87 86 407

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 93 159 21599 7999 235 34.03 2.22 6

First-Class 383 70789 28941 1043 27.74 2.45 36

39
This page intentionally left blank
 Fielding
T
he old cry that ‘catches win matches’ is only part of the suc-
cess story for today’s cricket. In the modern game, batters and
bowlers contribute to the overall outcome of a game. In addi-
tion, athletic ground fielding from all players has become mandatory.
Of course, taking catches helps as well. It is no longer acceptable for
fast bowlers to park themselves on the boundary, chatting to the fans,
while making the occasional leisurely stroll in to field a ball that has
been hit in their direction. We can no longer tolerate the presence of
a portly batter who does little more in the field than walk from first
slip to first slip at the change of overs.
It has taken a long time for cricketers to realise that the game is an
athletic pursuit rather than a gentleman’s pastime. If you don’t hop
on the athletic fielding train in the future, then you may be left at the
station. Such is the intensity of 50-over and Twenty20 cricket that the
goal for players is to be actively engaged for every ball: trying to save
runs, making the most of run-out opportunities, and endeavouring to
be in position to back up any errant throws that could potentially add
to the opposition’s score. Good teams apply pressure in the field by
consistently stopping boundaries, making great catches, and throwing
accurately to create run-out opportunities.
Today’s cricketers are multi-skilled. Selectors now insist that players
be good at two of the three main components of the game (batting,
bowling, and fielding). They should also be competent in the third. A
batter or bowler who is a poor fielder is often overlooked for a player
who complements his major skill with an outstanding presence in the
field. Complete cricketers need to develop all aspects of their fielding.
This includes a sound throwing technique, the ability to catch a variety
of high and low balls, and the speed to gather a hard-hit ball. These
qualities must be practiced continually. Plenty of manuals provide
coaching tips to assist your learning.
This section highlights 20 different aspects of fielding that will take
all players and coaches to a higher level of efficiency. It does not talk

41
 about the basics. Rather, it delves further, addressing issues that most
players don’t even contemplate. Such aspects as anticipating the spin
on the ball, backing up, positioning for relay throws, adopting a slid-
ing technique, and utilising knee bend are some of the areas discussed
that emphasise that fielding strategy and technique have come a long
way in recent times. Once you have read through this chapter, your
understanding of fielding will take on a new meaning. You will be on
your way to becoming a complete cricketer.

42
 31
Anticipating the Shot

L
ike the best batsmen in the world, the best fielders seem to have
time on their side. We often think that this is an innate quality.
However, if you watch good fielders, you will notice that they
often move to the correct position as a shot is played. They anticipate
how a batsman will play a particular ball.
For instance, if you are fielding in a point position and watching the
trajectory of the ball in flight, you have two options. You can brace
yourself for a forceful back-foot shot if the ball is short. You can move
forward into an attacking position if the ball is pitched up, given that
the batsman will either defend or drive the ball forward. This is most
relevant when a spin bowler is in action, since it can prevent the bats-
man from stealing runs from defended prods toward the point area.
Jonty Rhodes, the former South African player, was a master at this.
Today, the likes of Michael Clarke and Paul Collingwood will pounce
on anything within their reach.
Also, if you know that a particular ball is being bowled, you can
anticipate the possible outcomes. Imagine that you are fielding at
mid-off or mid-on. A slower ball is being bowled. You shouldn’t rush
forward, since the batsman might loft the ball to your position if he is
deceived during the ball’s flight.
Reading the game and knowing the way that certain players bat
are also key elements in anticipating outcomes. For instance, if a
batter is well known for stealing short singles, you may want to field
a little closer. Conversely, a batter who is obviously a slow runner can
be given a little more latitude. Whatever the situation, stay alert and
anticipate accordingly.

Bill Lawry

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 67 123 12 5234 210 47.15 13 30

First-Class 249 417 49 18734 266 50.9 50 122

43
32
Running in Pairs

W
hen a ball is hit into the outfield, it is most desirable to have
two fielders chasing it, particularly if the chase looks likely to
be close to the boundary. In such instances, the fielder who
reaches the ball first will either dive or slide to stop it from reaching
the boundary. If appropriately placed, he may flick the ball back to the
second fielder. The second fielder should be in the stronger position
to throw the ball, simply because he is not sprawled on the ground.
Also, fielders often run sideways and backwards to stop the ball.
Another fielder coming from an opposite direction towards the pitch
can take a flick pass in order to have forward momentum for the throw.
In some cases, the second fielder may not be required. This is based
on the judgment of the first fielder to the ball, and it is regarded as an
unrewarded running scenario since the second fielder has no direct
effect on the play. However, running in pairs is vital for team spirit and
defensive strategy. Therefore, it should be an expectation, rather than
a possibility. A second fielder should always be ready to be involved.

Sir Ian Botham

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 102 161 6 5200 208 33.54 14 67 120

ODIs 116 106 15 2113 79 23.21 0 44 36

First-Class 402 617 46 19399 228 33.97 38 354

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave 5Wkts

Tests 102 168 21815 10878 383 28.4 27

ODIs 116 115 6271 4139 145 28.54 0

First-Class 402 63547 31902 1172 27.22 59

44
 33
Setting Up the Relay

R
elay throws are important, but they should always be based on
the strength of the thrower and the length of the throw. Relay
throwers should position themselves approximately one-third
of the throwing distance from the target, with their hands raised to
provide a focal point for the throw. They should be in line with both
the thrower and the target.
The responsibility of relay throwers is to ensure that they are in a
ready-to-throw position. From there, they can throw to either end of
the pitch, depending on the call from the wicketkeeper or from the
close-surrounding fielders.
If you are throwing to the relay position, aim to keep the throw low
and sharp. Don’t throw high for distance. Ideally, if the throw is on
target, it should skip bounce to the intended spot unless it is taken by
the relay thrower.
However, always remember that a fielder who has a strong, powerful
arm should aim to reach the target directly if it is within his throwing
distance. This will always be faster than the relay option.

Paul Collingwood

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 63 109 10 4176 206 42.18 10 24 87

ODIs 186 170 35 4908 120 36.35 5 72 103

T20Is 33 31 2 561 79 19.34 0 24 12

First-Class 188 325 26 10977 206 36.71 24 0 214

Twenty20 52 47 5 855 79 20.35 0 39 16

45
34
Back Up, Don’t Muck Up!

I
n every run-out situation, the fielding team must have someone
backing up the throw. Therefore, it is every fielder’s responsibil-
ity to ensure that, if he is not in the act of fielding the ball, he is
assuming an appropriate position to back up or assist at the stumps
at the bowler’s end.
When backing up stay at least 20 metres from the stumps, if pos-
sible, to have space and time to stop any errant throws. It is also pref-
erable to have a second fielder behind the initial back-up fielder. This
provides added security, ensuring that no extra runs are conceded
from overthrows.
Also, be aware of ricochet possibilities when a throw makes contact
with the stumps. Although you cannot plan exactly for the direction
a ball might take, you should still be ready for the unexpected deflec-
tion. Pounce on the ball to prevent any extra runs from being taken.
Therefore, there should be one player directly in line with the throw
and two players strategically placed at 45-degree angles to the stumps
to cover the deflected ball.

A.B. de Villiers

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 61 105 12 4232 217 45.5 10 25 86

ODIs 101 97 14 3616 146 43.56 7 58 63

T20Is 30 29 6 579 79 25.17 0 20 32

First-Class 85 148 17 6081 217 46.41 13 132

Twenty20 69 65 12 1574 105 29.69 1 48 62

46
 35
The Value
of a Knock-Down

A
lthough all fielders endeavour to field the ball cleanly, some-
times a knock-down is just as effective. This is most evident
when a batter strikes a ball with great force directly to a fielder
and calls ‘wait,’ hoping that the ball may get through and a run can
be taken. A knock-down puts hesitation into the minds of both the
batter and the runner. In such an instance, it is certainly an effective
method of defence.
Quite often, a knock-down can be as valuable as a clean take. It
can stop a boundary and keep a batsman on strike. Above all, it sets a
standard of giving nothing away in the field. Diving on a ball to affect
a save and knocking it to the ground can also create hesitancy in the
batter’s calls, often leading to run-out possibilities.
The knock-down can also be used effectively when backing up a
sharp throw at the stumps. In this situation, the runner is usually
scampering for a single. He will not be in a position to take another
run as long as the ball is knocked down in the backup. In essence,
don’t ever underestimate the value of the knock-down in curtailing
runs scored by the opposition.

Andrew Symonds

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 26 41 5 1462 162 40.61 2 28 22

ODIs 198 161 33 5088 156 39.75 6 103 82

T20Is 14 11 4 337 85 4814 0 10 3

First-Class 227 376 33 14477 254 42.2 40 159

Twenty20 78 72 13 1980 117 33.55 2 80 37

47
36
Percentage Fielding

Q
uite often, a ball is struck to a fielder and the batter cannot
take either a single run or an extra run (if the ball is being hit
to an outfielder). In these situations, it is appropriate to play
the percentages to ensure the ball does not get through your grasp.
Use a more traditional fielding set-up, positioning your body and legs
to stop the ball in case of a bad bounce, which may cause the ball to
spill from your hands.
In general, percentage fielding is a defensive action that is very situ-
ational. It is based on variables, such as the following:
• Game situation. It is late in a game and conceding just one run, as
opposed to further runs if fumbled, is the best option.
• Batter’s intent. A batter is jogging through for the single and is
clearly taking only one run.
• Ground surface. The ground is not smooth. A clean pickup is going
to be tough, and the result does not hinge on a run-out!
Overall, you should play the percentages when a run-out is simply
not possible.

David Gower

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 117 204 18 8231 215 44.25 18 10 74

ODIs 114 111 8 3170 158 30.77 7 22 44

First-Class 448 727 70 26339 228 40.08 53 280

48
 37
Taking the Stumps
When Appropriate

I
n most instances, a fielder will only take the stumps for a run-out
opportunity when an obvious mix-up with the batters exists and a
safe, straight throw to a fielder at the stumps rather than a direct
hit is required. Other times, a close-in fielder (such as one in a bat-pad
position) can get to the stumps to assist with a run-out quicker than
the wicketkeeper can. In most instances, however, it is the responsibil-
ity of the wicketkeeper or the bowler to take the stumps on attempted
run-outs.
When taking the ball, provide a target that is just to the side of the
stumps, rather than directly over the top. Receivers often miss balls that
are thrown too close to the bails because they baulk at the possibility
of being hit with a flying ball or bail. It is simpler and quicker to strike
the stumps with a sideways movement rather than a downward one.
Also, many errors occur at the stumps when players forget to watch
the ball during a catch. The courageous player stands his ground,
takes the ball first, and then removes the bails.
In recent times, another method of receiving a ball has emerged.
The receiver positions his hands in front of the stumps in the path
of the throw, and then catches the ball while moving his hands back
toward the stumps. This necessitates earlier contact and a safe, giving
motion of the hands in the desired direction of the stumps.
Whatever technique you apply, you must be courageous, taking the
ball in a positive manner and making sure you catch it before break-
ing the stumps.

49
38
Be a Fielder,
Not a Spectator

F
ielders have a responsibility in every play in which a ball has been
struck into the field. The roles include the following:
• The active fielder (the one fielding, chasing, or throwing the ball)
• The second fielder, who is part of a pair when chasing a ball to
the boundary or who is simply close to the active fielder in the
course of play
• The receiver at the stumps, whether that be the wicketkeeper,
bowler, or another fielder (when appropriate)
• The relay thrower (when a ball is hit deep into the outfield), whose
responsibility is to be positioned approximately two-thirds of the
way along a direct line between the thrower and the target
• The backing-up fielders, who are generally on the opposite side
of the pitch to where the ball has been played (As well as backing
up an errant throw, these players can also assist the fielder by
calling the end to which they think the ball should be directed to
provide the best opportunity for a run-out.)
• The third fielder, who can also call the end to which the throw
should be directed
Despite the fact that most fielders are only directly involved in the
play for a small percentage of total fielding time, all players must be
prepared to initiate movement to the appropriate position based on
the situation. In football terms, this is often called unrewarded running.
Players chase opponents to maintain pressure without actually being
involved in the play.
Be prepared for the time when your unrewarded running puts you
into the play. Hopefully, it creates a wicket or at least saves another run.

50
 39
Stay Low, Throw Low

T
he best fielders in the world have a low, dynamic centre of gravity,
giving them good balance. They can stay close to the ground,
move quickly in any direction, pounce on a slow roller, dive in
either direction, and block a forceful shot, all because they are in a
low position and ready for action.
Likewise, whenever they are in the field, they throw low. This is
commonly referred to as a flat throw. They also use sufficient speed
to effect a run-out. The speed of the throw must be determined by
the situation. If a direct-hit run-out is required, the throw will usually
be quite hard. On the other hand, if a batter is stranded, then a firm,
accurate throw to a receiver would suffice. Good fielders make that
choice on the spur of the moment.
Also, be aware of your team-mates’ calls. Usually, a shout of ‘hit’
means that the ball needs to be thrown directly at the stumps. Con-
versely, a call of ‘keeper’ or ‘bowler’ may well indicate a throw to be
over the stumps or to the side so that the relevant receiver can catch
the ball and remove the bails.
When near the boundary, good fielders also ensure that their throws
are flat, even preferring to bounce throw the ball to the receiver. The
days of the old lob throw are numbered, simply because of the extra
time it takes for the ball to reach its target.
The next time you are practicing your fielding techniques stay low,
sum up the situation, and keep the throw down.

Anil Kumble

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 132 236 40850 18355 619 29.65 2.69 35

ODIs 271 265 14496 10312 337 30.89 4.3 2

First-Class 244 66931 29347 1136 25.83 2.63 72

Twenty20 49 49 1125 1258 54 23.29 6.7 1

51
40
Slip It On
and Cover Them Up

P
laying cricket can be a health hazard in more ways than one.
When batting, a blow to the body by a fast, rising ball can cause
serious damage. A knock on the finger when fielding can also be
dangerous. Tremendous stress and strain are placed on a fast bowler’s
back when he is in the delivery stride. Of course, all these possibilities
are just part of the game. Although we hope to avoid them, we accept
them if they occur.
One area of concern for all cricketers is the time spent in the sun,
particularly for games played in places like Australia where the inci-
dence of skin cancer is rising dramatically. Therefore, all players
must apply sunscreen regularly during a day’s play. This non-invasive
precaution should be compulsory.
Similarly, you must consider using sunglasses to protect your eyes
from harmful rays. In the past, sunglasses were seen as fashionable
rather than smart, but times have changed. Now the wearing of sun-
glasses has become an acceptable, intelligent precaution.
However, the advantages of wearing sunglasses must be weighed
against the possible impediment to performance. Interestingly, very
few (if any) batsmen wear sunglasses, yet most fielders do. Is not the
catch, which might fly to a slip fielder at considerable speeds, as impor-
tant as the first ball faced in a match? Why does a player see the two
as different? Wearing sunglasses is certainly advantageous for your
health, but is your performance assisted or hindered?
If you do wear sunglasses, ensure that you practise in them. Players
often use sunglasses during a warm-up and then discard them when
they take the field. Alternatively, they use their naked eyes in the
lead-up to a game, but then don sunglasses when in action. Another
misuse of sunglasses can often be seen in the batting warm-up. Why

52
on earth would a batter take throw-downs while wearing sunglasses
when he has no intention of batting with them?
Although we emphasise the importance of covering your eyes, we
also stress the need to be fully confident in having an artificial barrier
between your eyes and the action. ‘Practise as you play’ is a commonly
accepted mantra of all professional sportspeople. If you are going to
wear sunglasses, do so at training to ensure you do not compromise
your performance.

Andrew Strauss

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 77 140 5777 177 43.11 18 86

ODIs 113 112 3692 154 35.50 5 49

T20Is 4 4 73 33 18.25 0 1

First-Class 199 353 14061 177 41.84 35 175

List A 240 233 7118 163 32.50 9 82

Twenty20 28 28 519 60 18.53 0 12

53
41
Slide for Speed,
Not for Show!

W
hen running down a ball in the field, it has become almost
fashionable to slide, pick up, and throw. There is no doubt
that this modern technique, if performed correctly, is an
efficient fielding method. It can make the runner hesitate, and it is
fast and effective. Also, if it is just outside the 30-yard inner circle,
it allows a fielder the opportunity to get into position to throw with
a certain degree of ease, particularly when using the bent-knee or
figure-four slide.
You must read the play when considering the slide. If it will poten-
tially help you save a run or effect a run-out, you can slide. However,
if no advantage is likely to be gained, a simple pickup might save you
from possible injury and dirty clothes!
When sliding near the boundary, make sure you time your slide to
stop the ball. Your main aim in this situation is to stop extra runs, not
to effect a run-out. The method is less crucial, but the save might be
a match winner. Go for it with confidence and purpose. Hopefully,
whilst you are sprawled on the ground, another fielder will be nearby
to pick up the ball and return it.
Also, be aware that sliding on hard grounds is not advisable.
Although first-class players have the luxury of a soft, smooth surface,
most local players have to endure hard, rough grounds. Be sensible,
consider the conditions, and slide when appropriate.

Dennis Lillee

Matches Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 70 18467 8493 355 23.92 2.75 23

ODIs 63 3593 2145 103 20.82 3.58 1

First-Class 198 44806 20695 882 23.46 2.77 50

List A 102 5678 3259 165 19.75 3.44 1

54
 42
‘Bend ze Knees!’

I
can still hear the anguished cry of my ski instructor as I plummeted
towards the edge of a crevasse on my first venture on the ski slopes. ‘Bend
ze knees,’ he pleaded, as my ungainly attempt to balance those unman-
ageable extensions of my feet predictably ended in catastrophe.
(Ken Davis)
Bending the knees is just as important in cricket for creating quick
movement and generating power from the lower body as it is in skiing.
When fielding in slips, youngsters commonly adopt a stance with
minimal knee bend. In order to move up or to the side, straight-legged
players must bend their knees before pushing off to create the desired
movement. It is far more efficient to start with a bent-knee stance so
that when the ball is hit within your area, you can instantly push off in
the required direction. A bent-knee stance in slips also makes it easier
to catch balls that are hit low.
Straight-legged fielders tend to bend from the trunk. They are usu-
ally moving down towards the ball as contact is made. Consequently,
the ball often drops out of the catcher’s hands. Bending the knees
provides a more stable base and produces minimal downward move-
ment for low balls, increasing the likelihood that the hands will be in
a more favourable catching position.
The same principle applies to ground fielding in the infield (as
mentioned in chapter 39). If you bend your knees when walking in
with the bowler, you can move more rapidly in any direction. You will
also be in a better position to field a low-hit ball.
In addition, if you bend your knees in the batting stance, you should
be able to move more quickly and to use your legs more effectively to
generate force in your strokes.

55
43
Become a Star Fielder
off Your Own Bowling

T
he exploits of top fielders, such as Ricky Ponting, A.B. de Villiers,
and Andrew Symonds, are exciting to watch. They are so
focused, throwing themselves at the ball with such desperation
that they often create run-out and catching opportunities. Nothing
hit within a body length of them can be considered safe. They want
the ball to be hit to them. They are so courageous in their quest to
field the ball.
Bowlers frequently allow the ball to get past them because they lack
this preparation and desperation. It is almost as though they are sur-
prised that the ball could be hit to them after they bowl. Spin bowlers
should be geared for a ball coming back to them in particular, since the
drive shot is often played against them. Additionally, spinners should
always be alert for a caught-and-bowled possibility, since their art is
all about deceiving batters with subtle variations in flight and pace.
However, it is just as important for them to field balls that are hit
along the ground. A ball hit past the bowler typically produces a score,
releasing pressure on the batter. If bowlers can field a ball that is hit
powerfully back to them, then batters might become frustrated by the
fact that their good shots are being fielded. Subsequently, they may
try to force the issue, potentially creating errors.
Fast bowlers are usually very poor fielders off their own bowling.
Many would argue that they don’t have time to get down to the ball,
since they are still following through after their delivery. Sure, it may
be tough, but if you bowl a ball that is full in length and on the stumps,
then you should expect it to come back to you. Get prepared!
Bowlers often become spectators after the ball is hit into the field,
failing to get back to the stumps in time to receive the ball. It is a pity
that they don’t emulate part-time spinners like Michael Clarke and
J.P. Duminy, who are full of energy. They hustle back to the stumps
if the slightest chance is on offer. Frequently, spinners get their hands

56
to the ball, but let it get through for runs. Many become a little pre-
cious about their spinning fingers, failing to go at the ball with enough
commitment and strength of purpose.
After bowling the ball, you should adopt an aggressive, alert stance,
with your weight balanced on your toes and your knees bent for action.
You should be like a tiger, ready to pounce on its prey. Be prepared to
dive for the ball and get down low so that you are like the proverbial
brick wall. Make your captain proud when you field off your own
bowling. You will create wickets for the team.

Muttiah Muralitharan

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 133 230 44039 18180 800 22.72 2.47 67

ODIs 337 329 18169 11885 515 23.07 3.92 10

T20Is 11 11 258 266 13 20.46 6.18 0

First-Class 232 66933 26997 1374 19.64 2.42 119

Twenty20 66 66 1523 1569 83 18.9 6.18 0

57
44
Making Run-Outs
Routine

W
ith an ever-increasing focus on athletic fielding, you must
specifically prepare to routinely make run-outs. With this
in mind, we have designed and tested a drill that we think
creates pressure and intensity similar to game situations. It also rep-
licates match angles of attack and release.

The Infield Hustle

The infield hustle has the following scoring system that provides
measurable feedback for players.

Scoring Procedure
Players receive one point for an attack on the ball, one point for
handling the ball cleanly, and three points for hitting the stumps or
returning the ball within easy reach of the keeper or the bowler in the
second phase of the drill.

Format of Drill
• Players are divided into groups of five or six.
• For the first seven minutes, players aim to hit the stumps.
• Replicating game shots, a batter hits the ball from a feeder.
• Fielders are positioned at point, cover, mid-off, square leg, mid-
wicket, and mid-on. In other words, the infield is fairly standard.
Essentially, fielders go to their normal positions, but flexibility is
encouraged.
• Rapid movement is key. Players should squeeze as many attempts
into seven minutes as possible. Spare balls must be available.
• A scorer records individual scores for each fielding attempt.

58
 • After 7 minutes, 15 additional attempts are made. This time, a
throw-over the stumps to the keeper or bowler is made. If the
ball is dropped or thrown outside the easy-reach zone, no points
are awarded.
• A wicketkeeper can be recruited. A player can also act as a keeper
using a baseball glove. For these last 15 attempts, there can be two
or three fielders on the off side and two on the leg side, depend-
ing on whether the wicketkeeper is from the fielding side or not.

Assessment
At the end of the drill, all scores are added up and divided by the
number of attempts completed in the time allotted. A reasonable target
is around 60 attempts. As a rough guide at the club level, you should
expect scores in excess of three to be achieved.
The value of this drill is that it is specific to the game. It can be
repeated many times over as a measuring tool for infield improvement.
Individual scores can also be maintained and compared, provided field-
ers are in the same position. The short session ensures that intensity
is maintained. Coaches should make sure that fielding distances are
the same so that comparisons between sessions are reliable.

Cameron White

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 4 7 2 146 46 29.20 0 1

ODIs 72 59 12 1766 105 37.57 2 33

T20Is 23 22 8 513 85 36.64 0 11

First-Class 112 188 24 6873 260 41.90 16 105

List A 184 158 24 4762 126 35.53 6 82

Twenty20 84 79 21 1888 141 32.55 2 32

59
45
Batters Can Spin, Too!

W
hen we watch juniors in the field, we frequently see players
making errors because they cannot read how the spin on
the ball causes deviations in flight and rebound. A classic
example of this occurs for point fielders. The ball is often sliced towards
point. However, after contact with the ground, it spins backward from
point, often eluding the outstretched hands of unsuspecting fielders.
Whenever a ball is hit off centre, spin will be created. You must
understand its effects and make fielding adjustments accordingly. If
a ball is aimed directly from a right-handed batter to a cover fielder
but is not hit in the centre of the bat, it typically curves away to the
left-hand side of the fielder. If you listen to the contact, you should
be able to detect a ball that is hit more with the edge of the bat than
with the middle.
If a right-handed batter clips the ball off his pads behind square
leg, it also tends to spin on contact with the ground, this time towards
fine leg. You need to be ready for this deviation when fielding in the
square-leg region. A square cut that is hit underneath the centre of
the ball and high in the air creates backspin on the ball. The ball tends
to curl away from a fielder who is running from point to third man
to catch the ball.
Listen to the sound of the ball striking the bat and be aware of off-
centre hits. Next, be aware of flight characteristics and the rebound
direction of these strokes. Move to a position to account for the spin.
You should never be surprised by a ball spinning from a batter’s stroke.

John Buchanan

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

First-Class 7 13 160 41 12.30 0 0 5

List A 1 1 64 64 64.00 0 1 1

60
 46
Bounce the Ball
Into the Keeper’s Gloves,
Not at His Shins!

I
n bygone years, fielders would throw balls in from the deep with tra-
jectories that would have made pilots of low-flying aircraft anxious.
The crowd would break out in spontaneous applause as the throw
would, almost magnetically, nestle in the gloves of the wicketkeeper,
just above the bails. Ah, such control!
Unfortunately, this approach seldom produced a run-out because
the ball took too long to get to the keeper. We have since progressed
to the method of throwing the ball hard and flat to our intended target
in order to create possible run-outs. Often, when a run-out is on, a
bounce throw may be preferred to a throw over the stumps because
it gives the fielder two chances to execute a run-out. He should either
hit the stumps or have the keeper catch the ball and remove the bails.
In trying to bounce the ball in or hit the stumps, players often make
the ball bounce within a metre of the stumps. This makes it very dif-
ficult for the receiver (either with or without gloves) to take the ball
if it misses the stumps. A close run-out requires a bounce throw that
neither goes over the stumps nor bounces just in front of the receiver.

Shane Warne

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BW Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 145 273 40705 17995 708 25.41 2.65 37

ODIs 194 191 10642 7541 293 25.73 4.25 1

First-Class 301 74830 34449 1319 26.11 2.76 69

Twenty20 45 45 984 1225 46 26.63 7.46 0

61
47
Use the Right Throw
at the Right Time

I
magine you are chasing a ball towards the boundary. You pick it up
and prepare to launch it back to the wicketkeeper. What are your
choices in this situation? What should be running through your
head as you approach the ball?
The cricket computer inside your head should be ticking over as you
chase the ball down: ‘Which way is the wind blowing? Can I throw
the ball hard and flat to the keeper? Will I be better served throwing
to a cut-off player for a relay throw? Can I execute a flick pass to a
player who is running in from the outfield? Is the ball likely to be in a
position where batters may be tempted to take an extra run? To which
end are my team-mates calling me to throw? Which runner is slower?’
In order to make the right choice in each fielding experience, you
need to know at which distances you can throw the ball hard and flat.
Golfers know exactly how far they can hit each club, so why shouldn’t
fielders learn which type of throw should be executed from different
distances? To facilitate this process, each player should be tested from
different distances in the following manner:
• A throw is made from three distances (30, 40, and 50 metres).
• The player is timed from the starting position, which is 10 metres
from the stationary ball, until the ball hits the keeper’s gloves.
• Three different techniques are trialled at each distance.
Here is the set-up for the 40-metre throw:
• The following techniques are to be used for each distance:
1. Pick up the ball, brace with your right leg (for a right-handed
throw), and throw as hard as you can from a balanced, set
position.

62
 2. After pickup, do a crow hop and throw hard and flat to the
keeper.
3. Use a relay throw.
Just as golfers consider the wind and environmental conditions
before playing their shots, you will need to factor in the force of the
wind and the quality of the ground surface. For example, let’s say that
you determine in still conditions that you have a fastest time from 40
metres with the first technique from the preceding list (pick up and
throw from a set position). If you are throwing into the wind from the
same distance, you may be better served using a crow-hop technique.
Similarly, if the surface is firm, you should throw hard and flat, skip-
ping the ball to your target.
Throw choices depend on the position on the ground where the
throw is to be taken and the strength of each person’s arms. Because
no two players are alike, your throwing capabilities need to be put to
the test so that you are better equipped to make the appropriate choice
during a game.
In essence, know which throwing techniques are most efficient for
you at different distances and choose the appropriate method for the
conditions. By doing this, you may make some run-outs that you once
thought were impossible.

63
48
Swarm Like Bees
to the Honey Pot

S
ome time ago, I was fortunate enough to play a game against an MCC
touring team captained by Mike Brearley. Now, in contrast to many
of its predecessors, this English team was outstanding in the field,
with notables such as David Gower and Derek Randall leading the pack.
I can remember batting that day and was engaged in two run-outs in a
relatively short period of time. In the first instance, I burnt my captain by
calling ‘Yes’ then ‘No’ as I felt the fielders swarming to a ball that I initially
thought was an easy single. Alas, run-out number one! Not long after, my
new partner called me for a run that left me sprawling on the pitch in a vain
attempt to make my ground. Perhaps he decided to get in first!
(Ken Davis)
After these dismissals, the ground that the fielders made from the
time the batter settled in to prepare for the ball until he hit it was
apparent. Some players moved 10 metres in that time. Granted, they
may have been quick, but it was this sense of swarming that created
the most difficult adjustment.
When next you field, see if you can create this opportunity. (Remem-
ber that fielders may only move towards the batter once the bowler
begins the run-up. They are not permitted to deviate sideways from
this line.) The swarming effect may help you make some run-outs.
Go for the honey pot!

Ian Chappell

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 75 136 10 5345 196 42.42 14 15 105

ODIs 16 16 2 673 86 48.07 0 7 5

First-Class 262 448 41 19680 209 48.35 59 312

64
 49
Set the Table

W
hen you have guests for dinner, you invariably take great
pains to place people in specific seats with all the utensils
at their fingertips so that meaningful interaction with food
and people can occur. Yet when we play cricket, we invariably present
players with a smorgasbord of options in the field. Granted, we are
typically told where to position ourselves in the field, but we are not
in a great situation to modify our positions for different deliveries.
If we know which fork is appropriate for use with a certain food, we
can confidently attack its consumption. In cricket, we don’t know what
the bowler is going to serve up. Therefore, flexibility in field positioning
is somewhat of a gamble. Wouldn’t it make more sense for the fielders
to know when a bouncer, yorker, or slower ball is imminent?
Set plays are prevalent in most team sports, with basketball, soccer,
gridiron, and baseball perhaps leading the way. Cricket has been slow
to pick up on this trend, but there are signs that this is changing. In
addition to the bouncers, yorkers, and slower balls, set plays could be
established for a leg-side stumping to a player who is intent on get-
ting on the front foot or for a change in spin delivery. For example, a
leg-break bowler bowling a wrong’un might produce subtle changes
in fielding position.
It’s time for cricket to stop serving up a buffet of possible deliveries
that leave the fielders in just as much doubt as the batters are. They
must know the pace, direction, and speed of the ball that is coming so
that they can anticipate likely batting responses. Set the table methodi-
cally and give players an opportunity to read the signals and to select
the appropriate fielding utensil.

65
50
Cricket Is Not Baseball

W
hen searching for a competitive edge, many sports look for
stimulating ideas outside their own domain. In cricket, base-
ball concepts and approaches have been borrowed to good
effect. Throwing programs are commonplace in most elite squads.
As a result, good throwing and fielding techniques are now expected
from all first-class players.
However, in our efforts to replicate the baseball way, some have for-
gotten the two most glaring differences between baseball and cricket:
target size and throwing angles. With respect to baseball, the target
of a throw is usually much wider than in cricket. A baseball infielder
who throws to first base has a margin of error based on the size of the
first baseman. In fact, he could throw to the feet of the first baseman,
to an extended arm raised above the first baseman’s head, or even a
metre or so to either side (a differential of approximately 6 square
metres) in order to get an out. On the other hand, an infielder in cricket
must either hit the stumps or get very close (if throwing to the wicket
keeper) to effect an out. This target area is less than 1 square metre.
Furthermore, cricket players have much more variation in throwing
distance. Depending on the fielding position, this can be anywhere in a
360-degree arc of the batter. As a comparison, a shortstop in baseball
throws somewhere between 30 and 40 metres. In one-day cricket, with
a set infield circle having a radius of 30 metres, players at cover may
have to throw a maximum of 25 metres if the ball is hit straight to
them, provided they move in to field the ball. Those fielding at point
will have throws varying in distance from approximately 25 metres
(to the wicketkeeper) to as much as 35 metres (to the bowler’s end).
In addition, since the distance between bases is longer than a cricket
pitch (by about 7 metres), a baseball infielder may have more time to
execute an out at first base.

66
 The major point here is that cricketers in the infield, on most
occasions, must throw a shorter distance than a baseball player does.
Therefore, a quick release may be more efficient than preparation to
throw from an optimum-power position.
In essence, although you should learn the correct techniques of
throwing and should understand the basic fundamentals of body
position for executing a powerful throw, you must always remember
that cricketers (unlike baseball players) have to throw from different
distances and angles, and in a variety of game situations. It is too
simplistic to say ‘take your time, get balanced, and get aligned in a
power-throwing position.’ Sometimes, you just need to get the run-out
with the shortest and fastest throw. It may be a little ungainly, but it
will hopefully be balanced.

67
This page intentionally left blank
 Leadership
L
eadership has been a feature throughout history in world affairs,
local communities, business, families, and sport. We think of
Churchill, Napoleon, Hitler, Gandhi, and Mandela as examples
of political leaders who have shaped society, both positively and nega-
tively. Business tycoons such as Rupert Murdoch and Kerry Packer
have altered media throughout the world. Many people have made
significant contributions to the development of athletic excellence
through their unique approach to leadership. A few examples include
gridiron coach Vince Lombardi, swimming guru James Counsilman,
soccer manager Alex Ferguson, and tennis maestro Harry Hopman.
Traditionally, cricket teams are led entirely by a captain, both on
and off the field. However, in line with most other sports, cricket has
recently introduced non-playing coaches. They direct and manage
the preparation of players and assist the captain with tactical issues
that emerge in the game. A range of specialist coaches also commonly
assist at many levels of cricket.
Essentially, the task of leading players on the field still rests with
captains. They set the field, decide on bowling changes, and motivate
players to elevate their performance. Captains of successful teams
include both outstanding players (Sir Don Bradman, Clive Lloyd, and
Richie Benaud) and those whose playing ability was not as dominant
(Mike Brearley). In the latter case, his astute tactical mind enabled his
team to seize critical moments in games for the win, which certainly
compensated for any perceived deficiencies in his playing skills.
Although most captains have been batters, several outstanding all-
round cricketers have led their teams well, such as Kapil Dev, Sir Ian
Botham, Sir Garfield Sobers, and Richie Benaud. It is hard to assess,
but their outstanding example on the field probably allowed them to
lead so effectively. Specialist bowlers have been less likely to emerge
as captains, possibly because the arduous nature of their role affects
their ability to think clearly and plan ahead. It could also be, as many
of us batters and all-rounders think, that bowlers (particularly fast
bowlers) are from a different breed that is not smart enough to lead!
69
 In recent times, coaches have played a more significant role in world
cricket. This has filtered down to all levels of the game. John Buchanan,
Andy Flower, and Mickey Arthur are just a few of the non-playing
coaches who have clearly guided their squads through successful eras.
They seem to have developed a good rapport with their captains and
have worked together to enhance the preparation and performance of
their respective teams.
This section explores the art and science of cricket leadership from
the perspectives of both the captain and the coach. For the captain, it
considers what happens after winning the toss, field placements, the
importance of presenting a positive body image, creative planning of
bowling changes, and the timing of team declarations when batting.
It examines how coaches can best teach skills and what coaches and
players should expect of one another. It also considers the constant
challenge of providing specific preparation for cricketers.

70
 51
To Bat, or Not to Bat—
That Is the Question

O
ver the years, the general consensus has been that if you
win the toss, you will elect to bat 9 times out of 10. On the
10th time, you will consider bowling, but will end up batting
anyway! There is certainly merit in this thinking. First, most teams
would prefer to put runs on the board than to chase a total. Second, the
pitch (if it is turf) normally deteriorates with use. Third, the chance of
controlling the flow of the game in non-limited over matches is greater.
Although these reasons all support the decision to bat, sometimes
bowling might be the better option. Consider the following examples:
• When a game is played under ordinary conditions and a team
must dismiss the opposition (or force the opposition to declare) to
gain a win, the bowling team effectively has two ways of stopping
an innings. One is in their own hands (claiming 10 wickets) and
one is in the batting team’s hands (a declaration).
• A pitch that is affected by rain clearly offers assistance to the
bowlers.
• When humidity is high and cloud cover is dense, swing bowlers
are at an advantage.
• New wickets and a pitch with a good cover of grass favour bowlers.
• If batting is your strength and you are prepared to chase whatever
the opposition set you (given you do not get 10 wickets!), you can
choose to bowl first.
Whatever your decision, be confident in your choice and ensure that
your reasoning is sound and objective. Essentially, players need to
adapt to any challenge in front of them.

71
52
Avoid Pressuring Bowlers

B
owling is a precise art. Deliveries that are a little short or a little
full can lead to punishment. Subsequently, allow bowlers on top
to work with freedom; do not place undue pressure on them.
Often, after a bowler has taken two or three quick wickets, the cap-
tain responds by adding more slips, more bat pads, and few defensive
fielders.
Although this can be an important strategy for maintaining pressure
on batters, sometimes opening up gaps in the field actually pressures
the bowler. Think of a bowler who has success directing the ball at the
stumps with slight movement away from the batter. If, for example,
more slips are added and the leg-side field is left open, the bowler’s
tendency will be to bowl a little more outside off. He knows that any
ball that is not perfectly pitched will be easily dispatched into the leg
side, allowing for easy runs and possibly taking pressure off the batter.
In essence, simply placing more players in catching positions is not
always the smartest move. Allowing the bowler freedom and making it
difficult for a batter to score can be just as effective. Next time, before
you start attacking too much, consider your bowlers and the effect a
field change will have on them.

Gary Kirsten

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 101 176 7289 275 45.27 21 34 83

ODIs 185 185 6798 188 40.95 13 45 61

First-Class 221 387 16670 275 48.31 46 79 171

List A 294 289 9586 188 36.58 18 58 97

72
 53
Get the Angles Right

C
ricket is a game made up of angles. A leg before wicket decision
can be determined by the perceived angle the ball will take
after hitting the pads, particularly if a batter is hit on the pads
when he is not playing a shot. Similarly, the angle of the bat determines
whether the ball is lofted or hit along the ground. Of course, a batter
has 360 degrees in which shots can be played.
Subsequently, the captain, in consultation with the bowler, must
ensure that the fielders are appropriately placed to shut down scoring
options. This means that the angles must be manipulated appropriately.
Fielders should not be placed behind each other. A third man, for
instance, should bisect the close-in fielders. Similarly, the shorter, wide
mid-on (used invariably with leg-spinners) should be appropriately
placed to cut off the straight-on drive. This leaves a wider gap square
of the wicket, forcing the batter to hit across the line of the ball on
the leg side.
The importance of getting the angles right in field placements should
not be underestimated. When a catch is taken in an unorthodox posi-
tion, don’t assume it is lucky. Maybe the captain just happened to get
the angle right.

M.S. Dhoni

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 48 73 2602 148 40.65 4 18 127

ODIs 172 153 5733 183 50.28 7 37 170

T20Is 25 24 441 46 25.94 0 0 11

First-Class 89 139 4764 148 37.51 7 32 235

List A 228 205 7735 183 49.58 13 48 237

Twenty20 78 71 1688 73 35.16 0 7 32

73
54
Remember the Mid-On

S
ome captains and bowlers set fields without having a mid-on.
They may be forgetting that a push or drive to the mid-on area
is one of the easiest shots for most batters, particularly for balls
that are slightly overpitched and are directed at the stumps. Good
players simply move their feet across their stumps and guide the ball
to the vacant mid-on position to take easy runs.
In general, bowlers aim at off stump. When bowlers slightly err with
length, they don’t want batters to score easily by playing a straight shot
past them. At best, a mid-on denies easy runs to this area. If positioned
correctly, it may entice a batter to hit across the line to a squarer posi-
tion. Hopefully the ball will be missed, creating a leg before wicket
chance. Although a mid-on can be considered a conservative position,
do not underestimate the value of denying easy runs in order to get a
wicket. Keeping a batter on strike pressures the batter to score, hope-
fully forcing a mistake and, ultimately, a wicket.
The only time a mid-on can be avoided is when a very fast bowler
wants to bowl some short deliveries in which the ball is not pitched up,
therefore denying the possibility of straight drives. However, if this is
your strategy, ensure that the bowler sticks to the plan. He could also
bowl a full delivery outside off stump, thus restricting the likelihood
of an on drive.

Daniel Vettori

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 100 165 24997 11007 325 33.86 2.64 18

ODIs 255 240 12111 8367 268 31.22 4.14 2

T20Is 28 28 649 580 35 16.57 5.36 0

First-Class 152 35722 15920 499 31.9 2.67 28

Twenty20 57 57 1282 1321 67 19.71 6.18 0

74
 55
The Second New Ball—
Overrated or Not?

I
n first-class cricket, captains have the option of taking a second new
ball after 80 overs (The rules governing taking a second new ball
may vary slightly in local competitions and in different countries).
For most, the initial reaction would be to take advantage of the swing,
bounce, and carry that a new ball offers. However, shrewd captains are
a little more wary, weighing the advantages of this choice against the
subtle disadvantages that may not be as obvious to the novice skipper.
For instance, if the game situation demands that runs be contained,
and the spinners and medium pacers are doing just that, you might
be better off sticking with this plan. The batters may get themselves
out by trying to force runs. If the spinners are on top and creating
chances in the field, you might stick to an all-spin attack. This is cer-
tainly a good option when the pitch is either taking spin or keeping
low. Likewise, if the bowlers are having success with reverse swing,
you would be inclined to stick with this option. A new ball, which
swings conventionally, might not be as effective because its movement
is generally a little easier to detect.
Captains should also take the freshness of the fast bowlers into
account. If the option is to take the new ball, the quicks must be fully
rested and ready to go. Of course, if the state of the game demands
quick wickets, and you have explored most options, you should prob-
ably choose a new ball. Be aware that runs can come quickly, since
the new ball will fly off the bat. For this reason, a third man becomes
almost compulsory with the second new ball.
If you are the captain, remember that this choice requires a thorough
analysis of the game situation, an understanding of the capabilities
and fitness of your fast bowlers, and just a touch of luck.

75
56
Be Positive—
It’s Infectious

I
t is often troubling when a captain berates a team-mate for a mis-
take. It could be a dropped catch, a fumble in the field, or possibly
a wayward delivery from a bowler. No doubt the player would not
have meant to make the mistake. The captain will surely be disap-
pointed, since the mistake might cost a wicket or some runs, but the
player is often just as upset as everyone else in the team.
Think of a young child who drops an ice cream on the floor and
proceeds to cry incessantly because of the loss. Should the parent
discipline the child for the mistake or console him? Like a captain,
the parent has to quickly assess the reason for the situation. Was it a
result of carelessness or was it simply an accident?
A captain certainly has the right to make players aware of their
mistakes, particularly if he believes the players have not made every
effort in their performance. However, a player who is trying his best
and concentrating hard should not be ostracized. In fact, the opposite
should occur. Good body language and some positive words to deflect
the mistake will ensure that the player does not carry disappointment
into his next action on the field.
Handling players in the field and talking to them after the game is
extremely important. Your body language, speech, or written evalua-
tion provide feedback that reflects your opinion of their performance.
Although you must be honest in your analysis, you must also be tactful
and respectful of both effort and performance. In general, be positive
rather than negative. It can be infectious!

76
 57
Place Your Fielders
Strategically

C
oaches are forever disappointed when a run-out opportunity is
missed because the wrong fielder is in the wrong place at the
wrong time. Although we expect all fielders to be competent,
it would be naïve to think that every player is equally skilled when it
comes to specific areas of fielding. Some players have excellent reflexes
and soft hands, suiting them for a slip position. Others with rocket
arms can throw accurately from the boundary. Those with agility
and an ability to release the ball quickly are usually best suited for the
inner circle.
When you are seeking a one-percenter (something that gives you
a slight edge over your opposition), pay attention to detail when posi-
tioning fielders. For instance, the best, most agile throwers should be
used square of the wicket (point or square leg). This area is typically
the most difficult for batters in their calling, thus producing a mix-up
and a possible run-out opportunity.
Similarly, late in a one-day game, when the batting team is pushing
for extra runs from balls hit deep into the outfield, you must put your
strongest throwers on the boundary. This will either stop an extra
run or produce a run-out if the batters take on the fielder. You can
also position quick fielders next to slower ones to achieve a balance
in speed. Two slow-moving fielders next to each other can easily be
exploited by alert batters.
Captains must be diligent when placing the field. If that means that
certain fielders have to move between balls to assume the run-out
position (as is often the case when left- and right-handed batters are
at the wicket), then it must be done. Leaving players in positions for
which they are not suited is both a missed opportunity and a recipe
for disaster.

77
58
Create the Unexpected

M
ark Taylor was considered one of Australia’s greatest cap-
tains. He had a terrific win-loss ratio, but it was his tactical
awareness and creative thinking that elevated him above
many of his peers.
During a test match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the game
was meandering along. The batsmen appeared set and the bowlers were
bowling reasonably well without really threatening to take a wicket.
Then, the master struck, introducing Ricky Ponting into the attack.
Ponting has never been considered an all-rounder. At this stage of his
career, his part-time medium pacers were usually left in the training
nets. However, on this day, he was given a bowl just before a break.
As silly as it sounds, he got the breakthrough wicket.
This example highlights the need for captains to think outside the
square in order to create a positive outcome. You must still maintain
pressure. Taylor knew that Ponting was skilled enough to do this, albeit
for a limited time. There must also be some logic in your decision.
Michael Clarke, a bowler who was hitherto unknown, was intro-
duced into the attack in India during his first Test series in 2004. He
produced a stunning display, routing the innings with figures of six
wickets for just nine runs and helping Australia win the Test match.
This was an amazing piece of captaincy!
Another example is a simple fielding shift. This once occurred
when a very experienced batter was well set and was scoring freely in
front of the wicket. He was not known to play the cut shot a lot, and
he very rarely glided anything to third man. In order to change the
tempo of the game, the two slips were removed, leaving a wide gap
between the keeper and point. A third man was put in place. Sure
enough, at the first opportunity, the batter attempted a glide to third
man for the easy single. Instead, he feathered an outside edge to the
keeper, who duly took the catch. This positive outcome came from
some creative thinking.

78
 In the Ashes series of 2005, England captain Michael Vaughan
adopted some innovative field placements that unsettled the much-
vaunted Australian side. His tactic of bowling around the wicket to
left-handers with a deep point was designed to dry up players, like
Adam Gilchrist, who were normally free flowing. It proved to be suc-
cessful. Also, a short mid-off was set to Matthew Hayden, which not
only blunted his scoring, but also brought about his dismissal.
In batting, there is probably less margin for error. Batters are usually
given a designated position in the order and are expected to play their
role. Sure, you can occasionally throw a pinch hitter into the innings to
elevate the scoring, but batting order is generally fairly rigid. However,
this thinking was once ignored in 1937. Sir Don Bradman was both
a gifted batsman and a shrewd skipper. On one occasion, he decided
that the pitch was in such an ordinary condition that he sent in the
normal number 10 and number 11 batsmen to open the innings. He
said this was because ‘they would have as much chance of surviving
as the openers!’ Of course, he was proved right. As the pitch improved
and the more-accomplished, top-order batters came to the crease, they
were able to bat normally. In fact, Bradman batted at 7 and made an
incredible 270 to help Australia win the Test match.
Although captaincy is based on sound principles, the most excep-
tional captains seem to create the unexpected at just the right time.

Mark Taylor

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 104 186 13 7525 334 43.49 19 157

ODIs 113 110 1 3514 105 32.23 1 56

First-Class 253 435 20 17415 334 41.96 41 350

79
59
Declarations Must
Optimise Your Chance
of Winning

I
n recent times, the Australian captain Ricky Ponting has sometimes
waited to declare in order to help a batter reach a milestone. The
most notable example is when Brad Hodge made his maiden Test
century in Perth. He was given time to complete a memorable double
century before a declaration was made. Australia had more than a day
to dismiss the opposition, but they narrowly failed to achieve a victory.
Did Ponting err here by putting individual achievement ahead of team
results? Contrast this to the following Test match in 1971. Bill Lawry
declared when Rod Marsh was a few runs short of becoming the first
Aussie keeper to make a 100.
When you choose your timing for declarations, you must not take
any notice of individual milestones. The aim is always to optimise
your chances of getting a result. You must consider the strength of
the opposition batters, the condition of the wicket, and your bowlers’
ability to exploit said conditions.
The safest declaration is to give the opposition no chance to make
the required runs. However, you also need to be sure your bowlers
can dismiss 10 batters, who are essentially intent on digging in with
minimal risk. A declaration that is somewhat more adventurous gives
the opposition a glimmer of hope. Therefore, they are more likely to
attack, at least for part of the innings. In this case, you might pick up
a few wickets with batters attempting to score. This in turn should
create more potential for wickets.
In club cricket, during two-day games, you have to bowl the side out
that are batting second before you can record a win. In these circum-
stances, it may be preferable to declare when you have a good score on
the first evening, rather than batting on to make an insurmountable

80
target. This ensures that the opposition is constantly trying to win
the game, rather than contenting themselves with a draw very early
in the run chase.
Another useful time to declare in club cricket is when you have
passed your opponent’s score on the first day. Captains often bat on
to prevent the other side from winning, but then must rely on bowl-
ing a side out whose intent is just to stay in. We always prefer to open
the game up, giving the opposition a chance to gain outright points.
In this case, the opposition at least have the opportunity to get some
quick runs and set up a run chase for you.
The declaration of your opponents is also critical. They must give
you a challenging target that keeps you going for victory right up to
the end. In so doing, they hope you will lose enough wickets along
the way to provide them with a chance for an outright result. This is
a delicate balancing act whereby both teams must see their respective
declarations as a positive sign to a win.

81
60
Change Bowlers
Before It’s Too Late

H
ow often do we see a bowler coming to the end of a spell? His
last over usually is the most costly. This often occurs because
the captain has relied on blind faith rather than calculated
sense, sticking with the same bowler because of his past successes.
A good captain senses the flow of a match, often making a change
before others have even thought about it. These changes are inten-
tional, showing an appreciation for the state of the game, the physical
and mental conditions of the bowler, and the current (or expected)
performance of the batters against particular types of bowlers.
In baseball, it is almost mandatory for the starting pitcher to be
replaced in the later stages of a game, even if he has performed well.
The consensus among baseball coaches is that the starting pitcher will
be growing tired by the end. A relief pitcher will provide freshness
and speed late in the game. In fact, they believe the change prevents
an onslaught in the late innings. An offensive blitz may occur against
a pitcher who has already thrown 80 pitches or so.
In light of this example, captains should appreciate their bowlers’
fatigue level and should ensure that they will be fresh for a second
(or possibly a third) spell. Although this method is not prescriptive
for every situation, it must be at the forefront of the captain’s mind,
particularly with respect to front-line bowlers.
Of course, sometimes a bowler may keep going, simply because of
the pressure that he is applying. This most often occurs with medium
pacers or spinners, who do not show as much sign of physical weari-
ness. The state of the game may not demand change. In fact, making
a change could be exactly what the batting team wants!
Do not make double bowling changes, forcing two bowlers to settle
in. This may lead to an accelerated run rate. It is wiser to stagger
changes so that you don’t introduce two new bowlers at the same time.
In essence, be a proactive, rather than reactive, captain. Making the
right change at the right time is a quality of the very best.
82
 61
Respect Takes Time
to Earn and Just
Moments to Lose!

C
oaching at any level, be it for the under 12s or on a national
cricket team, is not an easy task. In addition to a thorough
understanding of the requirements of each level, coaches need
excellent communication skills, good planning, and sound strategies.
You do not need to have been the best player at your particular level
to be a good coach. If you come to coaching with an outstanding play-
ing record, there is no doubt that you will have respect from the start.
All you can do is lose it! This is often the case when a coach struggles
with communication, planning, and empathy. Good coaches earn
respect by ensuring these traits are at the forefront of their coaching
philosophy.
A worthwhile reminder to all coaches is the saying ‘A player does
not care what you know until they know that you care!’ If you follow
this motto, you will be on the way to earning respect.

Ricky Ponting

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 146 247 12026 257 54.66 39 52 172

ODIs 351 342 13072 164 42.85 29 79 152

First-Class 246 418 20873 257 57.34 73 90 261

83
62
The Captain Is More
Than a Figurehead

M
uch more is expected from cricket captains than from lead-
ers in other sports. They must make decisions on the field
that clearly affect the outcome of a game. It is easy to be a
competent captain, but difficult to be a great one. The following list
demonstrates the range of behaviours expected from a cricket captain.
Answer the questions honestly to see how you rate with respect to
mastering the art and science of captaincy.
• Can you lead by example (in terms of team values)?
• Are you a good listener?
• Do you involve others without losing your strength as a leader?
• Are you adaptable?
• Are you creative?
• Are you a risk taker?
• Are you an inspiring, confident speaker?
• Can you motivate others?
• Can you develop discipline in relation to team rules?
• Do you have a good rapport with players?
• Are you a positive role model?
• Are you courageous?
• Do you have good self-control?
• Do you have a sense of humour?
• Are you approachable?
• Can you read strengths and weaknesses in the opposition?
• Are you willing to make tough decisions?
• Are you in harmony with the coach?

84
 • Do you have a good understanding of field placements?
• Do you give regular feedback to players?
• Are you proactive with bowling changes?
• Do you have the ability to change the momentum of the game?
• Do you maintain a positive, co-operative relationship with
umpires?
• Do you have appropriate conflict-management skills?
• Are you decisive?
• Can you impart knowledge to others?
The list could go on, but we think this one demonstrates the complexity
of captaining a side well. If you are a budding captain, monitor your
progress on these behaviours and set goals for improving any areas of
concern. Coaches should show this list to the captain to receive a rating
on each, thus identifying areas where the most improvement is needed.

Jonty Rhodes

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 52 80 9 2532 117 35.66 3 22 34

ODIs 245 220 51 5935 121 35.11 2 47 105

First-Class 164 263 31 9546 172 41.14 22 127

85
63
Feel the Difference

O
ne of the most challenging yet fundamental aspects of coach-
ing is changing a technique. I’m sure we can all identify, either
as a player or a coach, with how difficult it can be. This is per-
fectly understandable. In order to make a change, we essentially have
to unlearn habits that have been ingrained over a long period of time.
We are often surprised at how difficult it is to change techniques.
Some are harder to change than others. For example, a very talented
pace bowler had suffered shin soreness for years because he placed his
front foot parallel with the popping crease. We thought it would be a
simple procedure to change his foot placement to point more directly
down the wicket. However, this player struggled to do so, and contin-
ued to have problems with his shins. Even the possibility of reduced
pain was not adequate incentive for change.
After years of trying different techniques, we have become con-
vinced that the best path is to get athletes to feel the new technique. For
instance, when working with wrist spinners who have trouble bowling
wrong’uns, try positioning yourself in front of them and asking them
to mimic your action. If you do this, players can instantly see the
difference in their wrist position. Next, move their wrists gently but
slowly through the desired positions for executing a wrong’un. Try to
help them feel the technique kinaesthetically.
The same approach can be used with any cricket skill. For instance,
if a batter is struggling to hit the ball through the covers because he is
closing his bat face, try taking him through the way the hands work
to open the bat face. This will help him develop the feel of the shot.

86
 64
Become Your Own Coach

O
nce you are armed with the fundamentals of the game, you
should be able to make adjustments whenever your technique
deteriorates. The key is to look at the outcome and consider
why it has occurred. The next step is to make a change that will facili-
tate more reliable performance of the skill.
Here are some common faults and their remedies:
Outcome 1: You are bowling too full. Typically, this results from letting
the ball go a little bit early.
Adjustment. Hang on to the ball a little longer.
Outcome 2: The ball is not spinning for leg-break bowlers. Look at your
hand at the moment of release. The ball is probably going out the
back of your hand, creating top spin.
Adjustment. Make sure you let the ball go out the front of your hand.
Point your fingers to midwicket at release. Loosen your wrist and
spin the ball sideways.
Outcome 3: Hitting the ball in the air on drives. Your bottom hand might
be working too much or your weight might be on your back foot
at contact.
Adjustment. Do some work with your top hand. Make sure you are
transferring your weight to the front foot.
In each situation, look at the difference between the actual outcome
and your desired one. If there is a large and consistent discrepancy
between the two, work back through the aspects of technique that
could be contributing to this difference. In this way, you can train
yourself to deal with technical errors as they occur. In effect, you will
become your own coach.

87
65
What Should Coaches
Expect From Their
Players?

T
hroughout our years of coaching, we dealt with a whole range
of personalities and commitment levels from players. We under-
stand that some players may not have the same motives for play-
ing as others. However, in order to produce quality practice sessions,
it can help everyone if a bare minimum of expectations is met. From
our experience, the following guidelines for players are necessary to
produce high-quality training and performance:
• Make sure you psych up for each training session. Think about
what you want to achieve. Become energised as you go to training.
When you arrive, bounce onto the training track and get into the
warm-up with enthusiasm.
• Come prepared to work on some aspect of your batting, bowling,
or fielding. Ideally, this should reflect your recent performances.
• Be prepared to do more than any other team or club at this level
in the country.
• Practise to improve the key areas of performance: fitness, skill,
and mind control.
• Listen to or read any feedback given to you. Develop strategies
with your coach for improvement.
• Be loyal to your leaders by giving a maximum effort to all drills
even if you disagree with their intent or structure.
If players adhere to the preceding guidelines, coaching becomes a
much easier task. Ultimately, optimal player performance is achieved.

88
 66
Train as You Play

I
n case you haven’t already realised it, it is difficult to train as you
play in cricket. In fact, it is possibly the only game in the world in
which net training is considered the norm and match-type training
is an afterthought. For this reason, coaches must attempt to provide
game-like scenarios whenever possible. Otherwise, we will continue
to produce expert trainers rather than expert players.
If nets are the only option, we must set objectives and goals based
on match situations. For instance, batters could be given a 60-ball
challenge in which they are allowed one chance to make 40 imaginary
runs. They would have to call runs and run twos appropriately. They
would also be given boundaries according to the stand-in umpire (who
could possibly be the next batter). The bowlers in the net would have
the objective of getting two wickets for less than 40 runs. Although
this may not be the real thing, it at least gets the players thinking and
training with a match focus.
Plenty of other ways to set the scene in the nets exist, and the pos-
sibilities are endless. However, the coach must ensure that an actual
score is recorded (possibly by the acting umpire) and that a written
account of every ball is maintained. In doing this, there will always
be a winner and a statistical record for analysis. The session is closer
to a game than a practice session that just involves having a hit for 10
minutes.
Hopefully, the competition scenario will inadvertently teach batters
the importance of balancing the value of their wicket against their own
particular method of scoring. Bowlers will be forced to think about
their delivery to create the desired outcome.

89
67
What Should Players
Expect From Their Coach?

I
n contrast to Ian Chappell (who is both revered and provocative)
and Shane Warne, we believe that a coach can offer more to the
team than simply a ‘ride to the ground to play cricket.’ Traditionally,
cricket coaches have been viewed as non-existent or subservient to cap-
tains at best. The modern approach shows a coach and captain work-
ing in harmony. Although coaches benefit from the wisdom captains
have gained from experience, they can also contribute to the team. In
recent times such coach-captain partnerships as John Buchanan-Steve
Waugh; Gary Kirsten-M.S. Dhoni; and Andy Flower-Andrew Strauss
have seemed to operate harmoniously to enhance team performance.
Their trained eyes may spot trends that a captain, immersed in the
emotional ebb and flow of the game, may miss from time to time. These
observations and strategies, when combined with a skilful captain who
is close to the action, result in the formula for planning team success.
So, what should players reasonably expect from a coach? The list
may be endless, but here are some qualities that we think a good coach
should demonstrate:
• Be passionate and show persistent commitment to the journey
towards team success.
• Plan the overall program after consultation with players and
support staff.
• Devise drills that specifically address team and individual needs.
• Set team goals.
• Guide pre-game warm-up activities that provide for individual
preferences.
• Motivate the team to train and play at an optimum intensity.
Model energetic and enthusiastic behaviour, even if the team is
not succeeding.

90
 • Prepare and outline goals and activities for each training session.
• Evaluate all players and give feedback following training sessions.
• Evaluate each game performance, giving feedback on positive
aspects as well as identifying some areas for improvement. Provide
a clear message for how this is to be achieved.
• Educate players about the intricacies of the game and encourage
them to read this book!
• Be accessible to players whenever they have concerns. Be alert
to changes in mood and be there to offer support when needed.
• Keep abreast of developments in sport science. Continually seek
to improve the overall program. Find specific approaches to
coaching players.
• Develop a program that reflects consideration of training prin-
ciples and sports medicine.
Coaches who expect to just turn up and work will always fall short
of the mark. As coaches become more and more accepted, expecta-
tions of players may also increase. As a player, you should respect and
understand the role of the coaches while requesting them to provide
you with an environment that satisfies the preceding expectations.
If we all work together, coaches should provide a ride not just to the
cricket ground, but also to a destination of cricket mastery.

91
68
Backyards and Beaches
Are Great Nurseries

T
here is no doubt that our best learning occurs in our early years.
Most parents of top-line sportsmen and women often comment
on how their children threw or hit a ball from the day they could
walk. In fact, most were probably catching (in some form) before they
were out of the pram.
Of course, as children grow, they usually become involved in free
play and backyard games that simulate the major sports they see on
television. At this stage, as long as the right techniques are encouraged,
children develop their awareness of games. They learn the nuances of
the sport intrinsically, rather than explicitly.
For instance, they might develop a way of hitting the ball through
the cover area because the backyard doesn’t have any room on the leg
side. Hence, they learn to get their feet in the right position and move
the bat along the correct plane for a cover drive. Alternatively, they may
experiment with a taped ball to learn the art of swing bowling through
experience, rather than by watching a coach explain and demonstrate
the correct wrist position. Even running between wickets is intrinsi-
cally learnt as players begin to appreciate the need for calling and the
value of a single to keep the scoreboard ticking over. In effect, they are
developing a feel for the game. A recent book titled First Tests: Great
Australian Cricketers and the Backyards That Made Them, written
by Steve Cannane (2010), reinforces this concept as the formative
cricket years of many of the Australian greats are explored. The child-
hood cricket backgrounds of luminaries such as Victor Trumper, Sir
Don Bradman, Clarrie Grimmett, Keith Miller, Neil Harvey, Richie
Benaud, the Chappell brothers. Mike Hussey and Brett Lee (to name
a few) all demonstrate both a passion for the game and an ingenuity
to create games in their backyards or street that provided a foundation
for their development as elite cricketers. Although correct technique

92
 is still an essential ingredient for success, intuitive learning of basic
skills through random games (possibly starting in the backyard or at
the beach) provides the backbone for a complete cricketer.
More-advanced cricketers should not underestimate the value of
game-scenario training, as opposed to a technical session in the nets.
A session with match connotations challenges players more realistically
than a simple set of drills does.
The next time you are asked to take part in a backyard game, get
involved and appreciate its value for beginners. You just might be
starting them on the journey towards international success.

Keith Miller

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 55 87 7 2958 147 36.97 7 28 38

ODIs 226 326 36 14183 281 48.9 41 136

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 55 95 10461 3906 170 22.97 2.24 7

First-Class 226 28070 11087 497 22.3 2.36 16

93
69
Coaching Wicketkeepers
Is Often an Afterthought

A
s is the case for most coaches, wicketkeeping is not part of the
game in which we feel comfortable, simply because we haven’t
had to do it. We appreciate them, but often we are only attracted
to keepers if they make a mistake. When you watch the ball, you seldom
focus on the keeper, making it difficult to give worthwhile feedback.
When we were nearing the nervous nineties in the production of this
book, we became acutely aware that we were neglecting wicketkeeping.
It is an important part of field performance. We then decided that it
would be useful to give our thoughts on what we looked for in keepers.
We hope to identify a core of principles to help novice wicketkeeping
coaches such as ourselves. Check out the following key points and see
where your keeper sits.
A competent wicketkeeper has the following qualities:
• Sets the standard in the field with enthusiasm, voice, and com-
mitment to ball-by-ball focus
• Has a strong work ethic and continually employs drills that can
be practised in small groups
• Consults a mentor with experience in keeping from time to time
during the season
• Can take the ball with soft hands
• Can keep up to the stumps for pace bowlers
• Is courageous enough to keep watching the ball even when there
is a flurry of bat and arms from the batter
• Has quick footwork for every ball of every day
• Can take the ball on the inside thigh
• Practises diving so that it becomes a habit (Catching in soft sand or
into a high jump bag is a useful practice for this skill component.)

94
 • Does a shoulder roll when diving for catches
• Waits for the ball to bounce before coming up from the crouch
or semi-crouch position
• Accelerates up to the wicket after every hit shot from the batter
• Practises taking both poor throws and good ones to prepare to
execute run-outs when they are offered
• Has mobility, leg power, and endurance
• Can read the spin of the ball as it leaves the spinner’s hand
In general, a wicketkeeper sets the standard for defensive work. There-
fore, don’t understate or undervalue it just because you haven’t done it.

Adam Gilchrist

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches ST

Tests 96 137 20 5570 204 47.6 17 379 37

ODIs 287 279 11 9619 172 35.89 16 417 55

T20Is 13 13 1 272 48 22.66 0 17 0

First-Class 190 280 46 10334 204 44.16 30 756 55

Twenty20 68 68 2 1773 109 26.86 2 48 19

95
This page intentionally left blank
 General
A
lthough cricket is a simple game, more often than not, it requires
a lot of smarts to win. It is not merely a game that involves one
team making more runs than the other. Success requires much
more than mastering the fundamentals. This section explores a host
of aspects that will make you a smarter cricketer.
In addition to the ability to display the techniques, you must have a
strong and focused mind in order to be consistently successful. Players
today need to balance offence and defence at various times within a
game. They need to be versatile and adaptable to different conditions
or game states. Practices should be specifically aimed at remedying
flaws that have occurred in the games. The ability to confront higher
challenges and to cope with losses of form is paramount in continuing
to grow as a player. Individual ability and smarts contribute to success,
but teamwork ultimately determines the results of games. Watch-
ing and learning from others is also very important in maintaining
continual improvement. The culture of cricket clubs can play a huge
part in retaining players. Young players may be intimidated by the
behaviour of senior players and may actually stop playing because of
the treatment they receive.
We decided to add our own short stories. We hope they have a useful
message for players and coaches. Neil outlines how much he learned
from being involved in successful teams over his career. Ken describes
in vivid detail how a team of country players he captained coped with
the might of the West Indies when they were at their most powerful.
We hope you enjoy the challenge of adding some of these approaches
to your game.

97
This page intentionally left blank
 70
It’s Not Offensive
to Be Defensive!

C
ricket, like most games, is about balancing offence with defence
in a sensible manner. It is particularly difficult to strike a sat-
isfactory balance in batting. If you are aggressive and you get
out, coaches will argue that you have erred. The current philosophy
in cricket is to be aggressive at all times. With run rates constantly
being presented, young cricketers can be excused for going all-out on
the attack.
However, even the most aggressive batters know the value of defend-
ing. At times, bowlers deliver balls that are too threatening to attempt to
score. Players who continue to try to thrash bowlers are almost certain
to have their innings curtailed by a clever one. For example, if two
slashing drives have been played through mid-off for boundaries, a
ball delivered wider and fuller is potentially dangerous for an in-form
batter. It should be left alone.
The same principle applies to bowlers. You don’t need to attack a
batter all the time to get a wicket. In one-day cricket, bowlers some-
times get too defensive, losing sight of the value of gaining a wicket by
slowing down batting momentum. However, bowlers who are patient
in all forms of cricket build pressure on batters, often facilitating an
error. New Zealand’s Daniel Vettori is a master in all forms of the
game. He dries up batters and creates wickets through guile and an
essentially defensive mindset. This combination of attack and defence
is a constant dilemma for cricket players. If you strike the right balance,
you will be on the track to success. Favouring one to the exclusion of
the other is a recipe for failure.

99
71
Learn From Mistakes,
Don’t Repeat Them

W
e are never too old to learn. Improvement requires either bet-
tering our skills, fitness, and mental approach or by resolving
to avoid the same mistakes. For example, you might have
been dismissed trying to hit a six over the head of a boundary fielder.
Next time, try to hit singles or twos when there are four fielders on
the fence. If you have been out leg before wicket when playing across
the line, you should commit to playing straighter when next you bat.
Here are some examples for bowlers. If you have bowled short on a
slow wicket and have been punished, you should recognise that situa-
tion when next it occurs and adapt accordingly. If you have bowled to
a 7-2 field and have tried to bounce a batter who has hooked you for
four, then perhaps you should consider field placements that are more
appropriate before attempting such a strategy again.
When fielding, if you throw the ball short of the target from your
position in the covers, then your next throw should be aimed higher.
Similarly, if you drop a catch in slips because your hands are going
down at the point of contact, then you should modify your starting
position to accommodate more knee bend. This will bring your hands
lower.
In summary, a host of learning experiences can be gained from
every performance. Don’t go into your shell and end up doing noth-
ing. Learn from your mistakes, work on correcting them, and adjust
your approach accordingly.

100
 72
Silent Nights Are Golden

T
he quality of training is sometimes diminished if there is constant
chatter between players. Cricket training is usually replete with
a host of players who stir others good naturedly or talk between
deliveries about their conquests on the weekend (on or off the field).
This often means that a bowler’s focus drifts from the essential task
of planning, executing, and evaluating each delivery. Players simply
walk back while chatting to another player, and then turn and run in to
bowl without giving the delivery any attention. Hence, bowling plans
cease and practice becomes more a case of going through the motions.
Abdul Qadir, a sublimely skilful spinner for Pakistan, remarked that
he wanted to be in his own concentrated world when he trained. Phil
Jackson, famous former coach of the Chicago Bulls (which included
the legendary Michael Jordan), conducted whole practices in silence.
He was astonished by the deep level of concentration and non-verbal
communication that such practice evoked.
Lead your club into the cone of silence from time to time and reap
the benefits.

Abdul Qadir

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 67 111 17126 7742 236 32.8 2.71 15

ODIs 104 100 5100 3454 132 26.16 4.06 2

First-Class 209 49036 22314 960 23.24 2.73 75

101
73
Do More

W
e once came across a quote from an unnamed source that
talked about doing more. We have expanded this idea,
adding some of our own advice that relates to competi-
tive sport. Don’t take this advice too literally. Overzealous players
need to be wary of the philosophy that more is always better. (If 300
bowls a week are good, then 400 are obviously better!) Clearly, with
the incidence of overuse injuries, you need to be suspicious of such a
philosophy. Follow guidelines that are less simplistic and listen to your
body. However, many young cricketers clearly do not put in the time
needed to ingrain their foundational skills.
With this need for balance in mind, we present the following list for
you to digest and ponder in your cricket life:
• Do more than exist—live.
• Do more than look—observe.
• Do more than read—absorb. (Are you absorbing this message?)
• Do more than hear—listen.
• Do more than listen—understand.
• Do more than think—ponder.
• Do more than plan—act.
• Do more than talk—say something.
• Do more than participate—compete.
• Do more than be a member—contribute.
• Do more than be involved—commit.
If you do more of these, you can rest assured that your coach will
be impressed by your attitude to self-improvement. Some of these
statements are more appropriate to cricket than others, but they will
all contribute to your improvement as a player if you commit to their
message.

102
 74
Come to Practise,
Don’t Turn Up
for Practice

I
t is impossible for a coach to devise training sessions that meet
your needs perfectly every time. Many competing factors must be
considered when designing a practice. Which would you choose in
each of the following examples?
• Team requirements or individual needs
• Physical fitness, practical skills, or mental skills
• Match conditions or repetitive skill practice
• Some variety to rejuvenate players and add fun to a session or the
same drills every time
• Modest load to prevent injuries or overload to challenge players
With this in mind, players must own their training needs and come
prepared to do more if their needs are not met at a session. For instance,
if a spin bowler feels at the end of a session on Thursday night that he
has not had enough bowling, then he should commit to doing extra
work either after training or on Friday evening on his own.
In addition to taking more ownership, players need to make sure
they are motivated to train at their peak. You should spend some time
before training to consider your goals for a session and psych yourself
up to train well, no matter what the coach directs you to do. We often
hear players complaining about how they lack motivation to practise.
Remember, you have to work at controlling your mental state. You can
choose to be either enthusiastic or lethargic. If you choose the former,
you have a chance to maximise every training session.

103
75
Concentrate!

Y
ou often hear this catch-cry when watching cricket, but you
rarely see coaches giving guidance on how to concentrate. What
is concentration and how can you improve it?
Most athletes can recall a performance when they were in the zone
or in a state of flow. Everything became easy and nothing seemed to
worry them. They felt in control, focusing appropriately for the whole
performance. They were neither worried about past performance nor
thinking about the future—they were simply in the present, playing
each ball or moment with optimal focus.
This ideal performance state is not always easy to achieve. We fre-
quently allow opposition players to distract us, thinking about their
comments as the next delivery is bowled. Sometimes we determine
how we are going to play a shot before it is bowled. Occasionally, we
start thinking about what it will be like to win a game, imagining
the celebrations before the task has been completed. Bowlers may be
dwelling on a previous poor delivery as they prepare to bowl another.
All of these situations reflect an inappropriate focus. They have the
potential for dire consequences.
Being aware of these lapses is the first step to improving your con-
centration. Whenever this happens, you should develop a process for
ensuring that your mind is clear and that you are prepared to play the
next delivery with optimal focus.
For a batter, it is useful to set small goals. Don’t focus too far into
the future. Watch the ball closely as the bowler runs in to bowl. Say
‘now’ to yourself as the ball leaves the bowler’s hands, triggering your
body and mind to get ready. Be ready to pounce on any delivery in
your hitting zone, but also be prepared to defend if necessary.
If you are having lots of lapses in concentration, it may be useful for
you to track the ball for a period of time. Watch it hit the wicketkeeper’s
gloves as you leave the ball. Track it as it passes from fielder to fielder
en route back to the bowler. Do not worry about previous deliveries
or get too far ahead of yourself. Essentially, whenever you notice your

104
 focus drifting, pull it back by watching the ball and saying a cue word
to yourself that will help you refocus. Examples include ‘play straight,’
‘move your feet,’ or ‘be positive!’
When bowling, concentration lapses may be due to lack of thought
about what you are going to bowl. You simply turn, run in, and let it
go. You may still be thinking about the previous delivery, ruing your
bad luck at a missed catch or an umpire’s decision. You could also be
engaged in verbal warfare with a batter.
Whatever the cause of the distraction, you need to be able to focus on
the next ball. The process should involve a brief review of the previous
delivery (Why did you bowl a full toss?). Next, forget about the past
delivery and focus on the type you are going to bowl next. Take a deep
breath, imagine how you are going to bowl, and look at the spot you’re
aiming for. Run in with a cue word in your mind (‘strong,’ ‘relax,’ or
‘smooth’). Let it happen, and watch the stumps fly out of the ground.
The best focus for fielders and wicketkeepers is to prepare for every
ball to come to them. If you do this with full intensity, maintaining
soft hands, you should be able to execute your skills optimally.

Richie Benaud

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 63 97 7 2201 122 24.45 3 8 65

First-Class 259 365 44 11719 187 36.5 23 254

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave Econ 5Wkts

Tests 63 116 19108 6704 248 27.03 2.1 16

First-Class 259 60481 23370 945 24.73 2.31 56

105
76
Game-Like Training

I
t sounds simple, doesn’t it? However, when we watch people train-
ing, we continually see coaches and players ignoring the specific-
ity principle. In simple terms, this means that you should aim to
train as closely as possible to game situations. Granted, it is difficult
to create training activities that replicate game situations in cricket.
Still, this should not deter committed coaches. A simple example of
this problem is that you often have only 10 minutes to bat at practice,
yet are often asked to bat for many hours in a game. It is not easy to
train specifically for match conditions, but with some thought, you
can better approximate game situations.
The following training habits are not specific:
• Facing a spin bowler for one ball, then contending with a pace
bowler for the next delivery
• Fielding a ball that is hit to you with a flat bat and returning it in
a direct line from whence it came (No one except the bowler has
to field that type of hit.)
• Failing to notice where the fielders are placed when batting in
the nets
• Hitting the ball in the air without fear of consequences
• Nicking a ball to the wicketkeeper and staying in (Unless he drops
the catch, of course!)
• Failing to run between deliveries when batting
• Bowling repeatedly for an hour at a time (We bowl for six deliver-
ies and rest for six, so we should practice under these conditions.)
• Batting without a target score in mind
• Bowling no balls continually at training (The flight path of a ball
delivered from 19 metres is different from one delivered legally.)
• Practising slips catching with a horizontal bat (Many slips catches
occur after a stroke from a vertical angle.)

106
Although you can never perfectly replicate a game situation, aim to
structure training in accordance with match conditions. Specificity
of training remains a constant challenge for both coaches and players.

Matthew Hayden

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 103 184 14 8625 380 50.73 30 82 128

ODIs 161 155 15 6133 181 43.8 10 87 68

T20Is 9 9 3 308 73 51.33 0 13 1

First-Class 295 515 47 24603 380 52.57 79 296

Twenty20 41 41 5 1415 93 39.3 0 57 12

107
77
Bring on the Spotlights:
Tips for Playing in Finals

F
inals are usually played at an elevated level, so be ready for more
intensity. Let the thought challenge and excite you. Don’t be
fearful or worried about the outcome. The following tips will
help you prepare for finals:
• Practise with intensity, particularly in the field. Do extra fielding
sessions so that you are confident you can attack the ball, pick
up cleanly, and throw strongly under any level of pressure. Make
fielding practice competitive to create pressure.
• Practise catching. Expect to take a catch each time rather than
just hoping that you will. Increase catching practice in the weeks
preceding finals.
• Try to create specific fielding drills. That is, if you field at short
cover, have the batter hit catches and ground balls at the same
angle.
• Do extra work as the pinnacle of the season approaches, then
taper into quality sessions as you enter the finals.
• Make sure you know how you play best. Commit to making that
approach work for you in finals. Do not make major changes
heading into finals.
• Channel nervous energy into determination by focusing on doing
your task well and resolving to never give in.
• If you are in good form, be confident, but expect the game to be
tough when you get in. Conversely, if you are in bad form, con-
vince yourself that you are due to play well and that you have not
lost your ability. The big stage is all you need!
• Show the opposition at all times that you are focused and on a mis-
sion. Your collective sense of team should unnerve the opposition.
Even if you are down, this aspect should always shine through.

108
 • Have confidence in your preparation and your readiness to accept
the upcoming challenge. Relax during the days preceding the
game. Minimise conflicts at work or home and start to get into
your own cocoon. Visualise key aspects that will make you suc-
cessful, and then switch off thoughts of the game. You do not want
to have played your game before you get to the ground.
• Prepare to be strong in your mind. Courage, patience, determina-
tion, and focus must be at their peak. You may lose because you
are not good enough on the day, but you should never lose the
battle of the mind. Preparing for elevated levels of intensity can
assist players to be ready for finals’ games. Remember that you
are there because you deserve to be, focus on giving your best
effort and the result will hopefully take care of itself.

Andy Flower

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 63 112 19 4794 232 51.54 12 151

ODIs 213 208 16 6786 145 35.34 4 141

First-Class 223 372 69 16379 271 54.05 49 361

List A 380 366 45 12511 145 38.97 12 254

Twenty20 21 20 2 595 83 33.05 0 6

109
78
The Power
of the Leading Arm

I
t is not surprising that youngsters often minimise the input from
their leading arm in cricket techniques. You don’t throw or bowl
with your leading arm, so isn’t it logical to give it a rest in your
technique practice? Not so!
In throwing and bowling, you need to initiate the movement with
strong use of the front arm. In the throw, the front arm tends toward
the target, and then thrusts vigorously into the rib cage as the throw-
ing arm starts to move forward. Similarly, in bowling, the leading arm
is raised high so that it can also thrust into the rib cage as the action
unfolds.
In batting, the leading arm is critical for success. It should be
aligned with the intended direction of straight-batted shots. If the
elbow flaps around to the side, considerable power and direction can
be lost. This technique of a high, powerful front elbow is difficult for
many to achieve, since it is often on the non-preferred side of their
body. That is, right-handed batters who throw with the right hand or
left-handed batters who throw with the left hand are at somewhat of
a disadvantage here.
An interesting fact is that many of our best left-handed batters
are right-hand dominant. Some examples include Adam Gilchrist,
Matthew Hayden, Chris Gayle, Graeme Smith, Alastair Cook, and
Michael Hussey.
However, no matter which is your dominant hand, if you train the
front arm in batting, the force will be with you.

110
 79
There’s No I in ‘Team’

C
ricket is interesting because it is an individual game played by
members of a team. While batting, a player can clearly bat to
stay in for as long as possible. This may or may not be in the
best interests of the team. Individual achievements, such as batting and
bowling averages, can often hinder your total commitment to the team.
Everyone has played with someone highly motivated who appears
to have prioritised individual interests at the expense of team goals. If
their ability matches their intent, they can be seen as the top perform-
ers in a team. However, if they aren’t doing absolutely everything for
the team, then they are setting it up for failure.
Some specific examples can clarify this point. We have often played
against batters who, when chasing a sizeable tally like 300, seem to
be content with walking off the ground unconquered on 75 while the
team has scored 250 runs. Sure, they have top scored, but they have
not been willing to play some higher risk shots to break up the game
and catapult their team score over the 300 mark. In essence, in-form
batters should be the one most capable of increasing the scoring rate.
Therefore, they should take responsibility for leading the assault on
the opposition’s tally. The fundamental principle is to try to win
the game. Any individual performances are mere stepping stones in
achieving team success.
On occasions when playing for a draw, a batter may try to score
more runs than are needed, satisfying ego at the expense of optimal
team performance. Batters are not the only ones who can destroy team
ethos. Bowlers can often become petulant when they are taken off.
Sometimes leading bowlers dictate which end they will bowl from to
the captain. They might also bowl in an attacking manner when the
plan is to contain the batters. Fielders can also be individually focused,
unaware of the importance of concentration for team success. If you
don’t prepare as if every ball will be hit to you, you are letting the
team down.
The key is to have the team in mind at all times. Enjoy the fruits that
team harmony and cohesion can bring to achieving the ultimate prize.

111
80
Be in the Team, Not Just
on the Team Sheet

J
ust because you are selected to be on a cricket team does not mean
you are in the team. You are only in once you are accepted by
others in the team as a player who unquestionably exhibits team
behaviours over and above any quest for individual achievement. Many
of these team attributes are developed at training. Check out the fol-
lowing list to see where you sit.
Team players do the following:
• They turn up to all training sessions This sounds simple, but
many players just happen to go missing when a tough training
session is planned.
• They think about their specific role in the next game and practice
accordingly. For example, they might be asked to open the bat-
ting in a one-day game with the purpose of getting the side off to
an aggressive start. In preparation, they practice hitting the ball
over the infield and playing shots to the safest spots on the field.
• They are proactive in doing additional exercises because they
don’t want to let the team down by being underprepared. They
want their skills to stand up under pressure.
• They practise at optimum level of intensity at all times.
• They take pride in their appearance while complying with team
apparel designed for training.
• At training, they encourage others to perform at their peak.
• They help set up for training and pack up as needed.
• They handle any selection disappointment in a positive manner.
• They are aware of other players’ needs and assist them where
appropriate.

112
 • They make sure that practice is competitive, but they are aware
of other players whose confidence may be down. Therefore, they
may not always go all out to dismiss or intimidate a batter on
inferior practice wickets.
It is exhilarating to train with a team of players who exhibit the pre-
ceding behaviours. The sense of shared purpose is far more satisfying
than individual success.

Kapil Dev

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 131 184 15 5248 163 31.05 8 61 64

ODIs 225 198 39 3783 175 23.79 1 71

First-Class 275 384 39 11356 193 32.91 18 192

List A 310 270 47 5481 175 24.57 2 99

Matches Inns Balls Runs Wkts BT Ave 5Wkts

Tests 131 227 27740 12867 434 29.64 23

ODIs 225 221 11202 6945 253 27.45 1

First-Class 275 48853 22626 835 27.09 39

List A 310 14947 9161 335 27.34 2

113
81
Team Behaviour
on Game Day

I
remember clearly a Test cricketer from about a decade ago who warmed
up for his club side in his national gear. I am still aghast at how a player
could do that whilst considering himself part of the team. Of course, this
person may have been a great team player, but the message he sent to his
team-mates was that he was above the rest of them, that he didn’t have to
comply with team needs. I would have thought that a Test player would
recognise this blatant elitism, doing everything he could to be seen as a
team player.
(Ken Davis)
In the previous chapter we spoke of how a player can exhibit team
behaviours at training and in general around the club. On game day it
is also vital that players can focus on both their own games and their
team's needs. The following guidelines can help ensure players are
able to do the little things that enhance team performance.
Off the field when your team is batting, a team player does the
following:
• Tries to be part of the group, mingling with others, regardless of
his own performances
• Shows up on time
• Dresses in team apparel
• Genuinely enjoys other players’ successes
• Uses his voice to encourage teammates throughout the day
On the field, a team player does the following:
• Takes responsibility for keeping team enthusiasm high, particu-
larly when the side is down

114
 • Displays energy between overs (jogs to position, gives bowlers a
pat on the back)
• Acknowledges desperate efforts in the field
• Bats with courage under fire
• When threatened physically, consistently gets in line with the ball,
even if there is risk of being hit
• Bats to a team tally, not to his own
• Bowls tightly or aggressively, depending on the situation
• Stays in tune with what the team is trying to achieve (In the field,
the captain may be trying to keep one of the batters on strike, so
awareness is important here.)
• Works hard, even if his previous involvement in the game has not
been personally productive or satisfying
We hope you come to realise that the team’s performance is the ulti-
mate measuring stick. Do everything in your power to be seen as a
team player!

115
82
Play Other Sports

F
or some time now, we have supported the increasingly unpopular
view that players should be encouraged to play other sports, even
at the elite level. There seems to be a powerful belief that more is
always better: If you can practice for 365 days a year instead of 250,
then you will automatically become better at your skills. Better still, why
not practice two or three times a day? That is, if you can stay awake!
Our view is that you should delay specialisation until it is apparent
that you have made the grade at senior level and have established a
clear career path. Playing other sports can help in so many ways. You
must not shut out other recreational pursuits at an early age.
First, other physical activities can provide psychological benefits.
Cricket is typically a summer game, which allows time for other
choices. Another sport that is completely divergent can refresh players
in the off season. Sports that are different from cricket, such as tennis,
hockey, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, and football, may provide some
competitive insights that players can transfer to cricket.
Second, by playing another sport, players will maintain an active
regimen of training and match preparation, albeit at a reduced level
of intensity or expectation. Sometimes, it’s good just to play and enjoy
physical activity, without playing for sheep stations. Serious athletes
appreciate getting their exercise in an enjoyable way, rather than
pounding the pavement all the time in pre-season.
Of course, in some instances, the risk of injury may outweigh the
benefits. Some negative effects of transfer between the two sports may
also occur. Notwithstanding these issues, we think young athletes
should be encouraged to participate in at least two sports, continuing
with them until a professional pathway is clearly established. Coaches
are challenged to manage these athletes so that they can explore pro-
grams in both sports.

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 83
Practise
With Distractions

W
e are often alarmed when players tell people to move from
behind the bowler’s arm at practice. In fact, players should
practise with all manner of distractions present to prepare
for any situation that may occur in a game. If you are a batter, the
process is rather simple. Watch the bowler’s action closely and zero in
on the ball after it leaves his hand. Nothing else should distract you
from this primary focus. You should be so centred on the essentials
and the execution of the shot that you scarcely notice any movement
or change in the background.
In reality, typical net training provides the ideal opportunity for
practising your concentration. With bowlers operating in the surround-
ing nets, the noise of bat on ball from the adjacent net, and plenty of
fielding action in the background, the scenario is perfect for tuning
in your mind.
You can practise this skill in other sport and life situations. For
example, at a party you can try to focus completely on the words and
facial expressions of one person (it might help if this person is attrac-
tive to you!) while others are talking in the group. If you can take in
every word this person says, then your ability to handle distractions is
enhanced. You might also be engaged in a game of social tennis with
players on adjoining courts. Practise continuing to play, even when a
ball from a nearby court drifts into your line of vision.
The idea is to continually train yourself to perform any task with
distractions present. Doing so will help you cope with a myriad of
things that are used either deliberately or inadvertently to get your mind
off the essentials of the task. So, embrace distraction and strengthen
your ability to deal with it whenever it may occur.

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84
When to Watch
the Players, Not the Ball

S
ome years ago, I went to the Australian Open with my daughter
Brooke, who was about 9 years old and just starting out in tennis. It
would be fair to say her footwork at that time, like most novices, left a
little to be desired. At this event we were privileged to observe the dancing feet
of Steffi Graf. I can recall saying to Brooke, ‘Let’s just watch Steffi’s feet for
five minutes.’ From that day on, Brooke’s footwork improved tremendously,
and she still uses this cue whenever her game is off the boil.
(Ken Davis)
Watching the ball closely is surely fundamental to our game, so why
would someone watch the player? In simple terms, we do so to optimise
learning. When you think about it, you are actually a spectator much
of the time in cricket. You may have been dismissed early and must sit
with the team for up to six hours. You may be fielding, but have been
in the action for only seven deliveries in the entire day.
Many people waste an opportunity to learn from the performance
on display, merely looking at the game rather than closely analysing the
players’ techniques. It is rather like observing a panoramic view like
a waterfall. We take in the overall effect before selecting parts of the
view that are more interesting. It is only then that we start to appreci-
ate the awesome power of the water as it plunges to the rocks below.
How should you watch a game? Consider the previous example
about watching tennis that illustrates the preferred approach. What
happened there is that we watched the player rather than watching the
ball, as spectators typically do. In cricket, train yourself to watch the
player. Do not be too fussed with the overall perspective. Look for the
following the next time you play or watch an elite game:
• The players’ grip of the bat and their backlift (See if you can work
out which shots may be difficult for them to play.)

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 • The batters’ footwork (Do they move forward or back? Is this
movement initiated before or after the ball leaves the bowler’s
hand? What type of delivery might cause them trouble? For
example, if the player moves forward all the time, might a bouncer
be a wise option?)
• The starting positions of fielders and how much ground they cover
from the start of a bowler’s run up to the delivery (What happens
after the ball is hit to them? How low do they get down? How
much give is in their hands? Where does the arm go in preparation
for the throw? Watch their feet as they get in position to throw.)
• The fielders who do not field the ball (Watch their movement to
back up and support.)
• Fielders who are good and those who are poorer (Train yourself
so that this identification becomes instinctive when you go out
to bat. Who throws left-handed? Which fielder could you best
sneak a single to?)
• The action of a bowler to see if you can discern any differences
in either their run-up or delivery
These are just a few examples of how you can learn by really watching.
When next you view a game, by all means, be entertained. However,
from time to time, put on your watcher’s hat and use the experience
to expand your knowledge and understanding of our great game.

119
85
Grow a Tree
That Produces Fruit
Every Year

K
en recently gave a talk to a promising group of young cricket-
ers about performance keys in cricket. He wanted to illustrate
that performance outcomes are the result of several processes
because so many things can improve performance. His brief was to
see if he could identify the keys for them.
As is his wont, he spent some time thinking about how he might
present this topic in a way that would capture their attention and
aid retention. Driving up the highway, he came upon the notion of a
performance tree. In the seminar, he drew a somewhat primitive tree
and divided it into four segments:
1. The root system, which is ever growing
2. The ground surface, which needs constant nurturing
3. The trunk, which must remain firm, deal with the elements, and
serve as the link between the roots and the branches
4. The branches and the foliage
He then asked himself and the group to label these segments in terms
of overall performance. He guided them by starting at the top, saying
that the foliage is the final outcome. It is what we see first when we
look at an attractive eucalypt or jacaranda. The flowers and the leaves
are the runs, wickets, catches, run-outs, and so on. Here is what the
group came up with:
Performance Tree
• Foliage. The leaves and flowers signify runs, etcetera.
• Top of the trunk where branches start. This section is game smarts
and tactical awareness.

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 • Trunk. This section symbolises courage, attack and defence,
consistency, control, work ethic, consistency, and concentration.
It also includes the ability to change momentum, read and exploit
opposition, and thrive on pressure .
• Ground surface. This portion is for nutrition, preparation, and
recovery.
• Roots. This strong, ever-growing system makes up the founda-
tion of performance and includes skill, technique, fitness, and
mental strength.
The group was then asked to use these keys to set goals for the season
and to appraise their performance. In so doing, they were awakened
to how performance outcomes can be improved by paying attention
to a host of factors.

Michael Clarke

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 62 101 4514 168 50.71 14 19 61

ODIs 178 162 5509 130 43.03 4 42 69

T20Is 33 27 472 67 21.45 0 1 13

First-Class 120 204 8475 201 46.05 28 34 118

121
86
Taking It One Step
at a Time

B
eing elevated to a higher level in sport is an inspiring thought,
but success is rarely accomplished without some form of adjust-
ment to the increased physical and psychological demands of
the new level. In professional sport, coaches and the media don't often
understand the difficulty in going from Third XI-grade cricket to the
firsts, from grade cricket to state, and from state to international cricket.
Sometimes, players are awestruck by the quality of cricketers in their
own or opposing teams. Imagine what it would be like for a young
cricketer to play his first game alongside Ricky Ponting or Andrew
Flintoff, whom they may have idolised as a child. Naturally, they would
feel less comfortable and less accepted in the new surroundings, pro-
voking such self-doubting thoughts as ‘Am I good enough to be here?
Will I make a fool of myself?’
We don’t expect to climb a ladder for the first time by going straight
to the top. Instead, we go one cautious step at a time. Even if you slip
a little from time to time, stay intent on securing a foothold before
committing to the next step.
Our message to coaches and players is to be aware of the challenge
of adapting to a new level. Players should aim to simplify their task,
not complicate it, by focusing on the fundamentals that have gained
them selection. Expect to be intimidated and expect a higher level of
intensity. Still, trust your skills. These specific guidelines will help you
cope when you are next faced with playing at a higher level:
• When batting, have a clear and positive game plan. Don’t be
overly cautious, but don’t try to play every shot in the book from
the start of your innings, either.
• Play the ball, not the bowler. Make positive actions with your feet.
• Be patient and calm, but not negative.

122
 • Get off strike if you can. Call loudly and decisively.
• Once you’re over the initial hump, set small goals.
• For bowlers, commit to a relaxation strategy at the top of your
mark and focus on the spot you are aiming at to direct the ball.
• If a catch comes to you, be purposeful but relaxed. Let the ball
come to you. When anxious, a player's tendency is to push his
hands at the ball.
• Desire the ball to come to you in the field.
Above all, use the occasion to become accustomed to the surrounds.
Let yourself perform one step at a time.

Chris Gayle

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 88 155 6 6007 317 40.31 12 66 84

ODIs 220 215 15 7885 153 39.42 19 165 95

T20Is 20 20 1 617 117 32.47 1 34 5

First-Class 162 288 21 11761 317 44.04 28 142

Twenty20 51 50 5 1357 117 30.15 1 74 17

123
87
When Things Are Going
Badly, Think of the Forest
After a Fire

I
can remember driving over a fire-ravaged region in Victoria, after the
infamous Ash Wednesday fires in 1982. I couldn’t believe the desolation.
Yet not long after, I visited the area again. Although the forest had been
devastated and reduced to a shadow of its former splendour, already trees
and shrubs were sprouting fresh growth. The forest fought back almost imme-
diately and regenerated healthy new foliage in a very short period of time.
(Ken Davis)
OK, so you’ve had a bad run of late. You can’t seem to get bat on
ball. When you do, you nick it, and it goes straight through to the wick-
etkeeper’s eager gloves. You seem to lack rhythm and consistency with
your bowling. All your indicators of progress are spiralling downwards
into a seemingly bottomless pit. There seems to be no way out, and
your confidence and enthusiasm for cricket is waning at a rapid rate.
How do you turn the tide?
Cricketers can learn much from the powers of nature. When devas-
tated, don’t just wallow in your disappointment; get back to basics and
start growing again. Initially, it can be beneficial to commit yourself
to a fitness program. Physical strength and well-being are usually
associated with gains in confidence and self-image. So, get active and
see if you can sprout some new growth.
The next step is to explore your game and identify some possible
causes for your decline. Is it a technical issue or a mental one? Once
you have identified the problem, set a specific program into motion to
correct it. Although many of these processes appear in other sections
of this book, you need to proactively address these problem areas.
Remember, you don’t lose your ability overnight. Trust your remedial
program.

124
 88
The Power of Peer
Assessment

Y
our fellow players are closer to the action than the coaches are,
so they can sometimes gain greater insights into your play. In a
strong team environment, an astute coach can utilise the power
of your peer group to highlight aspects of your game that warrant
attention. The final message a player receives may not be any different
from the coach’s observations. However, if it is given by fellow players,
it might be seen as more potent.
If you disagree with a coach’s assessment, you may fail to address
the concerns. However, if 90 percent of the other players think that
you are guilty of playing too extravagantly early in your innings, then
there is nowhere for you to hide.
This process has been used with good effect in several teams that
were already quite advanced in their commitment to each other. They
were relatively successful, but were looking to take the next step. To
achieve this, a comprehensive analysis chart was developed that asked
players to rank each other on all aspects. Finally, a summary of key
findings was collated. This information was presented to each player.
This is a delicate process. You don’t want this to look like a witch
hunt. Players need to be both honest and tactful in their assessment.
It is best to keep responses anonymous so that personal conflicts don’t
occur.

Michael Clarke

Matches Inns Runs HS BT Ave 100s 50s Catches

Tests 62 101 4514 168 50.71 14 19 61

ODIs 178 162 5509 130 43.03 4 42 69

T20Is 33 27 472 67 21.45 0 1 13

First-Class 120 204 8475 201 46.05 28 34 118

125
89
Playing With Pain
Is a Balancing Act

I
n our time in cricket, we have witnessed considerable changes in the
area of injury diagnosis and rehabilitation. In bygone years, bowl-
ers seldom missed games, often soldiering on throughout a season
with constant soreness in their backs, groins, or shoulders. Pain was
an inevitable and constant companion of pace bowlers.
Now we have sophisticated technology that can more accurately
diagnose specific injuries. Athletes are better educated on the risks of
overuse and unaccustomed-use injuries. Such education may predis-
pose athletes to quit training whenever a little, niggling ache occurs in
the body. Most physiotherapists adopt a conservative view, encourag-
ing players to report any soreness to them. A player armed with this
information may often miss training sessions. The likely result is that
the physical requirements of the training program are not met.
We must learn to strike a balance between the uninformed body
bashing of yesteryear and the somewhat constrained view of today that
tends to wrap players in cotton wool. By all means, utilise advanced
medical and training techniques. However, let’s beware of the medical-
room malingerer. Flush him out onto the playing field! Tolerating low
levels of pain is necessary if you wish to prepare yourself adequately
for competitive cricket.
Our advice to young cricketers is to be prepared to play with some
pain, If pain persists, see your doctor!

Jonty Rhodes

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s 6s Catches

Tests 52 80 9 2532 117 35.66 3 22 34

ODIs 245 220 51 5935 121 35.11 2 47 105

First-Class 164 263 31 9546 172 41.14 22 127

126
 90
Evaluating Performance:
Moving Beyond Statistics

C
ricket is a game of statistics. With batting, we compile lists of
runs scored, averages, partnerships, and scoring rates. With
bowling, we equate good performances with the number of
wickets taken, economy rates, and strike rates. Although these figures
provide a tangible record of a player’s performance over time, they can
sometimes mask his real contribution in a particular game.
For instance, if a batter is involved in a 50- or 100-run partnership,
but is only a minor contributor with respect to his individual score, his
importance can be easily brushed aside. Similarly, an opening batter
who weathers the storm on a tough wicket but who misses out on the
scoreboard may help set up the middle order by denting the effect of
the new ball.
With respect to bowling, a player who might not take a wicket but
who keeps pressure on the batters by maintaining a good line and
length may in fact contribute to the wickets when the opposition bat-
ters try and score off the other bowlers.
Also, a player’s contribution in the field is often undervalued, par-
ticularly when statistics are not recorded for runs saved or run-outs
achieved. Ideally, values should be given to players who either save runs
or have a high percentage of conversions with catches and run-outs.
These players are invaluable in any team.
When evaluating a performance, be careful not to undervalue a
player’s performance. The stolen run in the latter stages of a one-day
game, the knock-down in the field which saves a boundary, or the six
excellently delivered yorkers in the 50th over may mean more to the
result than what you read in the scorebook.

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91
Versatility
in an Increasingly
Specialised World

I
n contemporary society, we have witnessed a trend towards spe-
cialisation in so many aspects of human endeavour. In years gone
by, we took our cars to a local mechanic, but now we go to a brake
specialist and a muffler man. We now use a general practitioner as
a reference for all manner of specialists, from eye and ear doctors to
skin and foot professionals.
In many sports, particularly in America, these trends have been
mirrored. For example, in American football a squad of 80 players
can be rotated among 11 positions on the field at the whim of the
coaching staff. Specialist kickers may only spend three minutes on
the field on a good day! Baseball players have a pitching rotation that
involves the role of a specialist finisher, whose task is usually limited
to the last couple of innings.
Throughout our involvement in the game, cricket seems to have
gone through phases. In the 1960s, an abundance of fast bowlers
could scarcely hold a bat. These players were less than average in the
field. However, all-rounders, such as Keith Miller, Kapil Dev, Richie
Benaud, Sir Ian Botham, and the peerless Sir Garfield Sobers, seemed
to enrich teams so much that a quest for complete cricketers was always
on the agenda.
In this period, many still felt that to develop all-round skill was to
minimise the chances of mastering a particular skill. Jim Higgs, the
former Australian leg-spinner, maintained that in order to master his
craft, he couldn’t afford the time needed to become expert at fielding
or batting. However, in this age of professionalism, time is no longer
a consideration.

128
 Also, the modern game almost demands that players have skills in at
least two of the main areas of the game. Recent cricket history is replete
with examples of tail-end batters figuring in substantial partnerships.
Brett Lee, Harbhajan Singh, and Daniel Vettori readily come to mind
as players who have almost become all-rounders after first establishing
themselves as bowlers. Batters such as Darren Lehmann, Sachin Ten-
dulkar, and Chris Gayle have also taken vital wickets for their teams.
Our recommendation to young cricketers is that they continue to
develop versatility in their armoury. Surely, athletic batters can develop
the skill to bowl orthodox spin with sufficient consistency to warrant
inclusion in an attack at some point in time, even just to provide some
relief for the specialists. A stronger case can be made for all players to
develop their batting, since every player must bat in a game. All play-
ers should become competent in at least one fielding position without
excuse. In the future, it might be productive to have fast bowlers who
can turn to orthodox spin, like Colin Miller did for Australia at the
end of his career? Why can’t wicketkeepers work on their bowling
and fielders practice some keeping so that another option is available
to the captain?
Practise your specialty first and become an expert at your princi-
pal role in a team. Next, for a percentage of time, work on fielding in
another position. Practice both offensive and defensive approaches to
batting and bowling so that you can be depended on to adapt to any
situation. If you are a fast bowler, see if you have any flair in bowling
spin, and so on. Challenge yourself to add to your repertoire while
still spending a lot of time on your specialty. Your team will reap the
benefits.

129
92
Winning Premierships:
The Ultimate Team
Reward (Neil’s Story)

I
have been lucky in sport. In my impressionable years, I had a tech-
nical expert in George Murray, who taught me the skills of the
game. When I was a little more mature, I had a hard taskmaster
in former Australian vice-captain Keith Stackpole, who showed me
the tougher side of the game. Intertwined with these two coaching
doyens, I played alongside former Victorian star John Scholes and
Ryder medalist John Douglas.
Of course, there were many others as well, all of whom contributed
to my development as a player and as a coach. Along the way, I learnt
what was required to be successful.
At 17 years of age, I played in the first of three successive premiership
teams with my local baseball club, Coburg. This team contained three
Australian players: John Swanson, Ron McIvor, and Alan McLean.
I was also coached by baseball legend Lyn Straw. I quickly learnt the
value of preparation, the need for excellence, and the importance of
persistence. By age 21, in 1974, I was lucky enough to win the Helms
award for the best player in the Australian championships, thanks
mainly to the contribution of the successful people who helped guide
me.
At 24, I decided to concentrate on cricket. With this decision, I also
switched from the Fitzroy cricket club to the Carlton cricket club. In
my first four years, we won three premierships. That meant I had
played in six premierships in 10 years of top-level sport. Good fortune
seemed to be following me.
By 32, I was offered the position of captain and coach of the Collin-
gwood cricket club, a club with a proud history but little recent suc-
cess. In the next eight years, we played in five grand finals, winning

130
the premiership in the 1987-88 season. No doubt, something about
success had been entrenched into me by the people with whom I had
been so lucky to be involved.
As coach of the state under-19 team from 1995 through to 2004, the
Victorian team won three championships. There were also runners-up
another three times. Something was working!
The significance of all this is simple. If you wish to achieve suc-
cess, surround yourself with successful people. In some cases, this is
simply luck (being in the right place at the right time). However, in
many cases, you can make the choice. In many situations, you can be
the difference.
Over the years, I certainly learned the value of preparation, per-
sistence, and trust. These qualities were ingrained into me by others,
from my first coach to the star performers with whom I played. And
although I never made the Australian cricket team, I at least did every-
thing possible to reach my potential. No one can ask for any more.
Most important, during my sporting journey I was involved in ten
premierships. That’s a good feeling, and it is within everyone’s grasp.

Keith Stackpole

Matches Inns NO Runs HS BT Ave 100s Catches

Tests 43 80 5 2807 207 37.42 7 47

ODIs 6 6 0 224 61 37.33 0 1

First-Class 167 279 22 10100 207 39.29 22 166

List A 16 16 1 522 69 34.80 0 8

131
93
Kicking Goals to Launch
a Season

I
n order to set up the foundation of a cricket season, all members
must make a collective effort to ensure that everyone remains on
the same page throughout the year. Undertake the following steps
to set a clear path for excellence.
Step One
Ask your players what they want from cricket. Most prefer to be
successful, so look at areas where you have been short of the mark
in previous seasons. Clearly, if the club wants to be successful, then
change must be embraced.
Step Two
With all the stakeholders (players and committee), establish some
values to drive the club. Self-discipline, teamwork, excellence, passion,
courage, and preparation come to mind when assessing the qualities
of successful teams. This takes a bit of time, but it is well worth the
effort. The club performance can then be monitored in terms of these
values. All stakeholders must have an understanding of the behaviours
that underpin the values.
Step Three
Set up some training goals, such as the following:
• Make training fun, specific, purposeful, and intensive.
• Train at least as much as any other team in the competition.
• Monitor and reward attendance and effort at training.
Step Four
Establish club and team expectations related to match days. Examples
include arrival time at a ground, warm-up procedures, and off-field
duties when your team is batting.

132
Step Five
Establish a style of play and link it to the values.
Step Six
Look closely at the benchmark team in the competition to establish
performance goals. Aim to replicate and better such results. Include
all the components of the game: batting, bowling, and fielding.
Goals need to be specific, measurable, and challenging. They need
to be visible and constantly reinforced by all at the club. If you launch
every cricket season by kicking some goals, your score will mount
rapidly.

133
94
Make Your Home Ground
Away From Home

I
t has always puzzled us why pundits consider the home ground to
be such a huge factor in predicting outcomes in sport. Sure, being
familiar with the typical wickets at a particular venue does provide
an inherent advantage. However, shouldn’t this be a minor influence,
compared to ability, fitness, smarts, and mental toughness? Have
we started to believe in this notion so much that we go into an away
contest expecting to lose?
Some core factors are common to every ground. The wicket will
always be 22 yards long, the sun may or may not shine, the wind may
or may not blow, and the bowlers will try to get your batters out. You
need to plan for the peculiarities of any ground and their effect on
performance. We believe that well-prepared athletes build up a store
of information about different venues that will assist them to perform
consistently when on an away wicket.
For example, if you were playing a game on the historically bouncy
Western Australia Cricket Association pitch in Perth, you would be
wise to practice ducking under any fast ball pitched in the bowler’s half.
Equally, you would need to make sure you are aware of the bounce
from balls on a length that may cause nicks if diligent defence is not
produced. Many players have made runs in their first innings at the
WACA. It has typically been a great wicket for both batters and bowl-
ers. Therefore, the policy should be to understand its unique nature
and to adapt your game to accommodate to it. Similarly, the slope on
the wicket at Lord’s has unique characteristics to which batters need
to adapt.
Keep data on the wickets you play on for your level of competition.
A certain wicket may favour fast bowlers, while others favour spin.
You may notice that a wicket produces a lot of leg before wicket deci-
sions, which may indicate a tendency to keep low. Another pitch may

134
produce a lot of wickets early on the first day, which may indicate
more than the usual amount of moisture under the surface. Remember
grounds that are typically fast or slow so that you can get some idea
of a competitive tally for that ground.
It is useful also to train yourself to read wicket conditions so that
you can learn to predict what they will be like when you get out to
play. Make a habit of talking to opposition players about the condi-
tion of all grounds. These strategies will make you more familiar with
the conditions so that you can perform at your peak. Being equally
challenged by good and bad conditions will put you well on the way
to having a home ground away from home.

135
95
What If Your Nightmares
Come True?

S
o often in my dreams, I have been engaged in combat at a high level in
sport and have been frustrated by the outcome. Typically, these dreams
prevent me from achieving my goal. Really, they are nightmares,
because in my dream world I am thwarted by little obstacles. I am going
out to bat but I don’t have the right gear on; I have to do something other
than play the most important game of my life; I have an atrocious practice
session the day before, or someone asks me to change my game plan as I
am going out to bat. In the classic dream, I am running away from some
obscure invader. I awake so often from these nightmares feeling very upset
with the fact that I am not in the environment I thought I was in!
(Ken Davis)
The reality of sport is that a host of situations can throw you off
your game. Cricketers should prepare for all possible scenarios. Ask
yourself ‘what if?’ Think of all the things that could happen to upset
your preparation or performance. Work out a series of strategies that
can assist you in overcoming them.
How would you handle the following possibilities?
• You have a bad practice session the day before a competition.
• You have experienced four successive failures in batting.
• You are asked to play a different role than you normally do.
• You are changed in the batting order as the game is in progress.
• You are losing a contest.
• You tend to panic when pressure is applied in competition.
• You are learning a new technique, but are making little progress.
• You have been publicly criticised by the coach.
• You are devastated after an unexpected loss in a crucial game.

136
 • You have a negative attitude to playing away from home.
• You get dropped from the team.
• You are unable to perform well early in a contest.
• You bowl very well in first spells, but invariably perform below
par later in the day.
The list could go on. The point we want to make here is that if you
prepare for these circumstances, you will be better able to deal with
them. As an exercise, consider each of the preceding scenarios and
write down how you would respond to them.
Here is an example to set your pen in motion: Say you have a bad
practice session just before competition. A positive response to this
episode may include the following self-talk:
• ‘That’s good. I got that out of my system.’
• ‘Not everything was bad. I am just going to focus on the good
things I did.’
• ‘The playing conditions will be different on match day, so I will
just shrug off the session.’
Sometimes, it is worthwhile to finish your practice session on a good
note. This might be as simple as having a few throw-downs in which
you hit a few well-timed shots.
Preparing for your worst nightmare should be seen as a proactive
step in developing strategies to combat any situation that occurs in
competition. Soon, you will be so conditioned to respond in a posi-
tive manner to any adversity you meet, you might even hope another
nightmare is just around the corner, ready to be conquered.

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96
Boys to Men

T
he fact that young players are dropping out from our great
game is a growing concern within cricket. In Australia, clubs
have become proactive in attracting juniors to play through the
highly successful program, Milo Have A Go. Similar programs exist
throughout the world, ensuring that youngsters are exposed to cricket
at an early age. Recruitment is important, but the retention of players
may be a bigger issue.
Obviously, as children grow through their teenage years, a host of
activities compete for their time. Is the dropout phenomena merely a
reflection of these choices, or is it covering up complex factors within
the sport?
The culture of cricket clubs (we hasten to add that we are referring
to men’s clubs) has often been based on a proclivity to overindulge in
alcohol, treat women as sex objects, and spend copious hours telling
yarns that border on the raunchy side of good taste. Clearly, we are
overstating reality here. A lot of healthy fun and conviviality can occur
at cricket clubs without venturing to extremes. However, we seek to
make the point that the entry into a man’s world may be daunting for
a young boy who is nervously seeking his identity.
The easy way to deal with this anxiety is to join the masses and do
as they do, etching more tales of young drunken behaviour into the
folklore of the club. Do we have to rethink our values here? Should
we be more inclusive and temperate in our social behaviour? Can we
encourage families to become a part of a club that promotes fun and
happiness in a responsible environment? Since cricket is now seen as
an athletic endeavour, we should be encouraging all participants to
lead healthy lifestyles.
Notwithstanding these social issues, young players must overcome
other cricket-specific hurdles as they enter adult competitions. Typi-
cally, young players are targeted physically and verbally by their older
counterparts. This can often be unpleasant and may decrease their

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enthusiasm for playing the sport. As they gain athletic skill, the bar-
rage will subside in time. Young players are advised to hang in through
this period.
The contest becomes even tougher in many respects as young
players move up the grades. The loose ball becomes a rarity. Bowlers
begin to subject the youngster’s game to more scrutiny, searching for
weaknesses. Experienced batters attempt to dominate a young bowler,
particularly if he is a spin bowler. In order to work through this period,
young players need to maintain strong self-esteem and remain very
relaxed when they play. Knowing that this intimidation is likely to
occur is an important step in handling it.
Young players often experience performance troughs when they
enter the adult game. Since they are used to dominating a game, it
takes them a while to adapt to the new level. Again, youngsters armed
with this expectation are perhaps more able to cope with deterioration
in their form. This natural process rarely escapes any young player.
Skilful coaches focus on the small details that make an elite cricketer.
These are often neglected in junior ranks. Such an emphasis distances
them from outcomes that may be less than satisfying at this time.
Clubs that are aware of potential problems are more likely to be
able to guide youngsters through this period of turbulence. Hopefully
then, youngsters may endure this time and maintain both a love for
the game and a commitment to its future.

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97
Body Language
Tells a Story

F
rom the minute you walk onto the field, you will convey an
image. If you are nervous, you might be fidgety, rounding your
shoulders a little and lowering your voice. Although this does not
necessarily set you up for failure, the opposition will be all over you.
Batters should note the way that the top players stride to the wicket
with an air of confidence. They are positive in their play, even when
leaving a ball. They make loud and forthright calls. They back up
aggressively, prepared to run. Even when they play and miss, they
show no concern. They accept the mistake (or the good ball) and get
on with business, using positive body language.
Bowlers must also assert themselves before and after a delivery.
This does not have to be verbal, as some seem to think is necessary.
You must approach the crease with decisiveness and confidence, let-
ting the batter know that you mean business. Whatever happens after
the delivery, you must be resolute with your actions. Don’t complain
about the outcome.
In the field, be active. Demonstrate your commitment to the defen-
sive work by diving on the ball, running to back up as necessary,
employing sharp throws to the wicketkeeper, and generally wanting to
be part of the play, rather than hoping that the ball doesn’t come to you.
Although positive body language will not improve your cover drive
or make you bowl any faster, it just may give you a mental edge over
your opposition. That one percent might be the difference between
success and failure.

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 98
When David Beat Goliath
(Ken’s Story)

I
n the late 1970s, I was fortunate to be named captain of a Victorian-
country XI to play against the all-conquering West Indies team
in the first game of their Australian tour. Our team consisted of
country players who played cricket once per week in domestic cricket
competitions. We had four players who had competed against Test
players in the Melbourne premier cricket competition.
Our adversaries were clearly the most dominant team in the world
at that time. They had an impressive array of fast-bowling options,
and when I say fast, I mean lightning quick! Their batting boasted the
master batsmen: Viv Richards, Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes,
Alvin Kallicharran, Clive Lloyd, and the pugnacious Larry Gomes.
This was a team that had no weakness. When our team was selected
some three weeks prior to the game, I realised that it would be an
experience we’d never forget. As the game approached, I feared that
many of our players were excited about the experience, rather than
any thought of challenging the best team in the world. I resolved to
change that mentality. This was a contest between Mohammed Ali and
Lionel Rose, Tiger Woods and the club champion at Casterton golf
club, Michael Jordan and the best basketball player from Pomborneit.
Let’s face it, this was not meant to be a contest in the strict gladiatorial
sense. We were supposed to get flogged, showcasing the talent of the
West Indies in the name of promotion of the game in rural Victoria.
As we gathered for one of our three practice sessions before the
game, I calmly addressed the players about the need to quicken up
their reflexes to prepare themselves for a pace barrage, to get on the
back foot to give themselves more chance to track the missiles projected
by the Windies’ attack.

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 This tour coincided with the introduction of protective headgear in
cricket. Many players still believed it was a sign of weakness to wear
such apparel. In fact, I’m sure some of the diehards regarded it as a
form of cheating! Our club had purchased three helmets and encour-
aged players to use them, reasoning that it would give batters some
confidence to get in behind the ball, which is a fundamental principle
of the batting craft.
At practice for the Windies clash, I urged the players to trial the
helmets. Most players found them uncomfortable and cumbersome.
Some believed that their vision was impaired, while others felt that
they couldn’t play their strokes with their customary fluency. At the
conclusion of the practice, only the players from my club (Michael
Bowtell, Chris Lynch, and myself) were committed to wearing them.
How was this to change? But I get ahead of myself.
As coach, I had to change the psychology of the group. I knew from
the way the players were talking that, quite understandably, they rated
the Windies as untouchables who were incredibly superior to us. How-
ever, I knew, having played premier cricket for a number of years and
having batted against Test players, that the gap between reality and
their imagination was nowhere near as great as they feared.
I started by convincing myself! ‘I have made runs against Test play-
ers, so why can’t these fellows do the same?’ With renewed confidence,
I called a meeting during the build-up to the game. My focus was to
convince the players that on any given day, a rank outsider could defeat
an odds-on favourite. History was full of such examples. I drew on
some of these cases as I commenced my battle to change the team’s
thinking. I wrote ‘How can we beat the Windies?’ on the whiteboard.
After reviving the players who fainted, we started to etch out a plan.
I asked them to write down all that would have to happen for us to
win. As you would expect, it took a while for the group to take this
task seriously. Early responses indicated that our best chance rested
on taking the scalpel to several intimate body parts of the opposition.
In time, notions like these faded, and the players created the follow-
ing game plan:
• The Windies would not take the game as seriously as a first-class
game. They would be less prepared than normal.
• It was generally felt that we needed to restrict them to a score
under 250. I thought it was unlikely that part-time cricketers
could amass a big score against such quality bowlers.

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 • We would have to win the effort stakes, which meant dirty pants
for everyone in the field. We would have to dive for the ball dis-
regarding any thought of possible injury.
• Some players would have to do better than they had previously.
• We needed to be courageous and willing to take some blows on
the body.
• Everyone would have to contribute.
I knew at the conclusion of that meeting that the seed had been sown.
We knew we could beat the Windies.
The big day arrived under the cover of threatening skies. As I pressed
the wicket for a photo with Clive Lloyd, I couldn’t help but notice the
size of his hands. He could fit my two hands in one of his! No wonder
he could catch the ball with such nonchalance. As I walked off the
field after winning the toss and sending the Windies in to bat, I had
to fight the fear of inadequacy I felt after comparing myself physically
to the athletic, dominant Lloyd.
We were pleased yet disappointed that the Windies left out Rich-
ards, Greenidge, Holding, and Garner. However, their pace attack of
Croft, Marshall, and Roberts was still very formidable. Their batting
contained a blend of stroke players, such as Haynes, Rowe, Kalli-
charran, Lloyd, and nudgers, such as Gomes. Predictably, we were
shell-shocked at the start. All fielders found the ball reaching them
before they expected it to. My shin at slip, after an edge from Haynes,
was testimony to that!
In an hour of typical Windies aggression, they made 62 runs against
our opening attack of David Beames and Andrew Scott. Most in the
crowd had settled back to see the predicted domination of the fledglings
from country Victoria. One towering six over square leg was a gentle
reminder that these guys liked to hit the ball! Thankfully, as I cupped
my hands at slip, the heavens opened up and play was abandoned for
the day. Most suspected, like a killer on death row, that we were only
granted a stay of execution.
In the afternoon, we arranged a game of golf with the Windies play-
ers. Strangely, this game gave me hope for the outcome of the cricket
match. Chris Lynch and I were drawn to play with Desmond Haynes
and the master blaster himself, Vivian Richards. Naturally, we were a
little nervous on the tee. This was not helped by Desmond’s first drive,
which carried 280 metres straight up the middle. Then Viv stepped

143
 up, took a big swipe, and landed the ball amongst the eucalypts. He
proceeded to go from tree to tree for much of the day. Even though
we didn’t play that well, we still had Vivvy covered at the end. This
demonstrated to me that even the most gifted people have weaknesses.
If Vivvy couldn’t play golf all that well, then surely his team-mates
would make some mistakes with the bat. We needed to be ready.
On day two we settled into our task more quickly, much like a footy
final seems to settle after the frenetic first 10 minutes or so. I had
opened with Andrew Scott bowling upwind and decided to give him
a crack with the southwester at his back. Andrew was a likeable lar-
rikin, always sporting a mischievous grin on his face. He was a typical,
mad-fast bowler really, but quick and smart at his craft.
In what turned out to be a pivotal moment in the match, as I handed
the ball to Andrew at the top of his mark, he said ‘Be bold,’ an obvious
reference to one of the quotes I mentioned in our meeting pre-game.
He proceeded to bounce the Windies with a sustained spell of hos-
tile bowling. In no time at all, the Windies were 4-100 odd, and we
had a game on our hands. Andrew had given us hope. Supported by
improved fielding and some wily spin by Ian Treloar, we managed to
dismiss the Windies for 224, on target!
Now, for the courage! Our leading player, Michael Bowtell, took
strike against Colin Croft (who is 6 feet, 6 inches tall!). I guess we were
wondering if they would bowl at something approaching top pace.
Perhaps they might hold back and give us some half volleys. They
might experiment with their swing. We watched in horror as the first
ball was a searing bouncer that kept coming at Michael’s helmet. He
attempted to sway out of the path of the ball, but it thundered into his
helmet and raced away for our first runs of the innings. They were here
to play! Remember my earlier comments about our players’ reluctance
to wear helmets. Well, all of a sudden, the idea became more palatable
to them. One by one, players filed down the steps and into the rooms
to try on a helmet! ‘Yeah, it’s not so bad after all,’ was the common
call. If you had been a salesperson, you would have made a killing on
that day. All of a sudden, $500 for a helmet seemed a good deal!
We lost Michael Bowtell cheaply and Peter Brady, a prolific run-
getter from Ballarat, followed soon after. Chris Lynch looked terrific
and got to 20 quite quickly before holing out. At 3-30, the writing was
on the wall. Enter yours truly to partner Phillip Marshall. Phillip had
been used to playing on the front foot on a flat wicket in Geelong. This
was different. I took guard and peered at Malcolm Marshall, a speck

144
on the horizon. He galloped in, shirt flapping in the breeze (as John
Arlott, the doyen of cricket commentators, would say), and approached
the crease with the conviction of a man at war. He gathered and flung
this lethal cocktail in my direction.
I saw a blur in the soft twilight. The delivery was pitched short, so
I went into autopilot and ducked. Alas, this was not the Western Aus-
tralian Cricket Association wicket in Perth, with its pace and bounce.
This was Geelong West, with disturbing unpredictability in bounce.
The ball crashed into the back of my helmet. I must have been nearly
leg before wicket as I tried desperately to limbo. ‘Backfoot,’ I said to
myself, ‘and be quick.’ Somehow we survived to build a partnership.
My back foot was nearly alongside the stumps! There was no way I
was going to meet the ball! Phillip managed to spank a few drives
and cuts interspersed with some unconvincing lobs just out of reach
of fielders, when the ball was catapulted at his throat. We passed 50
and Phillip was gaining in confidence. I was just hanging in, unsure
of the bounce. Eventually I was bowled by one that didn’t rise a lot.
Phillip confided later that it wasn’t a good shot. I was thankful I was
alive! 4-80 became 5-84, since Mark Seeckts went not long after me.
On day three, the warm-up was sloppy and the players were chatting
away casually. Then, like the Marshall bouncer the previous day, it hit
me. I called the players in. ‘Hey, you don’t think we can win do you?
You’ve given up. All that needs to happen is that one guy needs to make
70, and the others have to chip in. I know you can make 70 (pointing
to numbers 7 and 8), and I know you can make 20 (pointing to num-
bers 9, 10, and 11). Now, let’s get back and prepare to win!’ The edge
returned. We lost an early wicket, but I liked the team’s steely resolve.
Peter Caulfield, a handy late-order batter who was selected prin-
cipally as the third seamer, strode to a fighting 69—one short of the
target I had set! The others all chipped in with 15s and 20s. When
David Beames stroked a ball through the covers, we moved to 225-9,
and a lead on the first innings against the world champions.
Now, I doubt this feat rated a mention in the Guinness Book of
Records, but it should have. I doubt whether Clive Lloyd remem-
bers anything about the game at all. However, to 12 guys from rural
Victoria, it was huge. It was the moment when we all learnt that no
matter how good the opposition, on any given day, a David can beat
a Goliath. Even as I write, I am starting to dream about playing and
beating Tiger Woods at golf. I just have to do my best ever on one of
his bad days, and I’ve got him. Never, ever give up!

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99
Gaining Wisdom

C
ricket wisdom can be gained from a variety of sources. Giving
advice is not only the domain of the elite superstars of the game.
Many intelligent, committed, and observant people play and
watch the game without reaching the dizzy heights of representing
their country.
So many experiences occur in every Australian summer that can
provide learning opportunities for our future players. You can learn
from watching both Test matches and the local under-12 competition.
You can gain good advice from those who have taken block at Lord’s
or from those who have sent down a googly at Pomborneit. In short,
cricket wisdom knows no boundaries.
The last section of this book aims to encapsulate this philosophy.
The people involved are not all Test players. They are simply a col-
lection of cricket aficionados who have devoted a lot of their life to
playing and coaching cricket. We believe their advice and experiences
can be helpful to all aspiring coaches and players.

99.05 Clinton Peake (Former First-Class Player

and Australian Under-19 Captain)
Coaching Tip
Don’t try to be someone else! I found it a great temptation to try to
bat like other people I admired. I also had more success as a bats-
man by playing to my own strengths and game plan and ignoring
what the batsman at the other end was doing. Staying true to my
own strengths and personality has greatly assisted me at times of
pressure to keep on doing what I think is right for me.

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 Advice for Players
Following the marketing of Twenty20 cricket and the one-day
World Cup, I think a lot of young players fall into the trap of think-
ing they have to be able to score a run at every ball or be able to
bowl every type of delivery in the book to be worth a game. The
best advice I can give to a young player is that they must be able
to do ordinary things extraordinarily well. Only by doing this will
they be able to achieve and sustain above-average performance.

99.10 Jason Bakker (Former First-Class Player)

Coaching Tip
Bat with selectivity and patience, knowing that scoring opportuni-
ties will always be nearby. Impatient and overzealous players tend
to support their team-mates from the change rooms after they have
thrown their wicket away.
Advice for Players
Train and aspire to be a complete player. Don’t underestimate or
undervalue other facets to the game of cricket apart from your core
skill or competency. (I bet Phil Jacques wishes he spent more time
on fielding practice at a younger age.)

99.15 Belinda Clark (Former Australian Captain)

Coaching Tip
You will get out at some point, so make the most of the opportunity
to score runs whilst you are in!
Advice for Players
If you consider your game as a bucket, the aim is to fill the bucket
with as much targeted practice as you can at any early age. Those
who have spent time filling their buckets will have a greater chance
to be the best they can be.

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 99.20 Ben Oliver (Former First-Class Player)
Coaching Tip
Control the controllables. This concept took me from just playing
the game to thinking about the game. It shaped my approach to
training and preparation, and was also a valuable default setting
for my thought process during a match.
Advice for Players
Understand your game and play to your strengths. Regardless of
natural ability, players who fully understand what is required for
them to perform at their best are in a better position to produce this
in a match situation. An obvious extension of this is to play to your
strengths, particularly at key moments in a match. By playing the
shots or bowling the delivery that you are most comfortable with,
you are more likely to produce a positive outcome.

99.25 Rohan Larkin (Former First-Class Player)

Coaching Tip
The best tip I got as a youngster didn’t relate to technique, but
to attitude. As a young A-grade player, I’d bowled a ball which
reared off a length and hit the batsmen in the chest, which sent
him moaning to the ground. With a 16-year-old boy’s innocence
and some genuine concern, I walked up to the batter and asked,
‘Are you alright?’ Hearing this, my captain marched me back to my
mark. In amongst the abuse he gave me for showing concern for
the health of the batsman was ‘You’re not out here to make friends.’
Like all good captains, he sat me down after play and explained
what he meant. The crux of it was that he was convinced that one
of the main differences between an average player and a good
player was sheer ruthlessness. Hence, if you injure an opposition
player or make a few enemies amongst opposition players whilst
endeavouring to give your absolute all for victory, then so be it.
Advice for Players
The best advice I’d give a player now is an old favourite. I would
tell them that they must have ‘CACCA,’ which means courage,
ability, character, commitment, and adaptability.

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99.30 Ian Redpath (Former Australian Player)
Coaching Tip
I was always encouraged and coached to be positive, not always
with stroke play, but with attitude. Hence, use positive footwork
when attacking and defending. Tentative batting leads to trouble.
Advice for Players
Cricket is a lovely game and we all have ambitions to succeed
and hopefully progress. You face two pressures in cricket: One is
applied by the opposition and the other is applied by yourself. Try
to play as well as you possibly can so that you are in the moment
and your future will take care of itself. Many young players have
great ambition, as one should have, but they are forever playing for
the future rather than the present. What should be a great game
turns into a nightmare.

99.35 David Hussey (Australian One-Day

and Twenty20 Player)
Coaching Tip
The best piece of advice anyone ever gave me while growing up
was ‘No matter who is bowling, how fast, how good, how consis-
tent, whatever the situation is, just watch the ball and everything
will take care of itself.’ Basically, this told me to trust my ability
and technique and play on instinct. Most of all, it made me relax
at the crease, because when I am relaxed, I play my best cricket. In
the words of Rod Marsh, ‘Cricket is such a simple game, don’t
complicate things.’ The simple task of watching the ball is quite
easy to achieve.
Advice for Players
The best advice I would give a young player is to always, always play
for the team. Cricket can be such a selfish game, particularly when
players just look after themselves. This disappoints me. However, if
you always put your team-mates first, you will gain the respect
within your team, and you will also become a better player by
learning off your team-mates. Putting the team first is very rare,
but it is such a valuable life skill to obtain.

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 99.40 Cameron White (Australian Test, One-Day,
and Twenty20 Player)
Coaching Tip
‘You are your own best coach.’ I have always thought that was a
good tip.
Advice for Players
As a young player, you will receive lots of advice and information
from all types of people and coaches. Be prepared to listen to what
people have to say about your game, particularly with respect to
your technique with your batting, bowling, and fielding. Then,
take it on board and decide what works best for you!

99.45 Brad Hodge (Australian Test Player)

Coaching Tip
Former Australian captain, Allan Border, once noted that when
I made a 100, I seldom went on to make a bigger score. He said
I needed to convert these scores into 170s to 200s. I then started
to think bigger and plan to continue batting when I got past 100.
Essentially, that is a mental challenge. You’ve conquered most
bowlers by then, and the two dangers lurking are the second new
ball and your own concentration. I learned to recognise the key
moments of trouble ahead. If it was a tear-away fast bowler, I would
think that at most I would probably have to face 15 balls in his spell,
so I geared up to survive that test. Having survived that, so long
as I respected other bowlers, they would not pose the same threat
as the number-one strike bowler.
Advice for Players
Two things come to mind. The younger you master back-foot play,
the quicker you will become a better player. Most 18-year-olds are
front-foot players who have to learn back-foot play at that stage.
That takes time. My advice is to learn back-foot play as soon as
you can. Also, it is imperative that you practice hitting the ball
naturally early on. Do not be overconcerned with technique. You
should play a number of bat-and-ball activities to build up a natural,
flowing hitting movement. I had a lot of that foundation in hitting
skills before my dad started taking me to the nets as a 12-year-old,
where I focused more on building a sounder technique in cricket.

150
99.50 Clea Smith (Victorian Spirit Player
and Australian Representative)
Coaching Tip
Aim to be the best version of yourself, not the second-best version
of somebody else. Being thrust into the senior Victorian team as a
young, timid 18-year-old was extremely confronting. Overnight,
my heroes had become my team-mates. What I had been aspir-
ing to had become an expectation. The only way I knew how to
achieve that was to emulate those who did it best. I was unaware
of how this approach was putting limits on what I achieved. The
day I recognised the difference between copying from my team-
mates and learning from them, I gave myself the opportunity to
reach my potential.
Advice for Players
If you love cricket, you’ll love the challenges it brings. Passion will
inspire success.

99.55 Nick Jewell (Victorian Opening Batsman)

Coaching Tip
The best piece of advice I have received as a player was to be pre-
pared to play ugly. Find a way to succeed, find the style of game
that works for you, and stick to it. It was vital for me when going
from a middle-order player who used to like to play all the shots
and attack when under pressure to being an opening bat in first-
class cricket. Now I have a very simple game plan of good defence,
a cut shot that is the main scoring shot. I try to work the ball off
the hip or ribs to rotate the strike. It’s simple, but it works for me.
Advice for Players
When challenged at a new level or going up a grade (4ths to 3rds,
local cricket to premier cricket, or premier cricket to first-class
cricket), don’t play the bowler or his reputation; play the ball coming
down the pitch. It is very easy to be dismissed by the bowler and
not by the actual ball that was bowled!

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 99.60 Rob Quiney (Victorian First-Class Player)
Coaching Tip
Keep it simple and enjoy your cricket.
Advice for Players
Listen to everyone, then sort through it and develop a game that
suits you.

99.65 Lloyd Mash (Victorian First-Class Player)

Coaching Tip
Always have a clear and open mind. Let your instincts take over.
Advice for Players
Approach every training session (skills or fitness) with the same
intensity as you would in a game.

99.70 Dirk Nannes (Victorian First-Class Player

and Netherlands World Cup Player)
Coaching Tip
A good ball is a good ball to any player. It does not matter how good
it is. For batting, when I was trying to hit it too hard one day, the
tip was ‘The ball only has to touch the fence, not break it.’
Advice for Players
Know what you are good at, and play to those strengths. If you can
bowl a good bouncer, use it. If you can’t bowl a yorker spot on 80
percent of the time, don’t try one until you can do it in the nets.

99.75 Kim Hughes (Former Australian Captain)

Coaching Tip
When batting, think ‘head first, feet second.’ So many coaches say
‘Move your foot to the pitch of the ball.’ My coach used to say the
most important aspect of batting was to move your head toward

152
where you wanted to play, and then the foot would follow. Hence,
when playing an on drive, you move your head to the line of the
ball first. In so doing, you avoid the problem of planting your foot
to the off side and having to play around the pad in order to play
a ball pitched on or outside leg stump.
Advice for Players
The day you are not having fun, it’s time to give the game away.
Always look forward to training and having some fun while work-
ing towards improving your game.

99.80 Darren Berry (Former Victorian Captain)

Coaching Tip
‘The harder I work, the luckier I seem to get.’ It’s a bit of a cliché,
but it’s pretty good advice.
Advice for Players
Keep the main thing, the main thing.

99.85 Terry Alderman (Former Australian

Swing Bowler)
Coaching Tip
One of the best tips I received was from Ray Lindwall after I had
been selected for Australia. It concerned the amount of angle you
put on the seam towards the slips to get the ball to swing out. His
method was to hold the seam upright and straight, and use his
wrist to create the angle to achieve the movement. It can be a bit
complicated if you aren’t already skilled in the art of swing bowl-
ing, so to be told this at my developed stage was perfect timing!
Advice for Players
A piece of advice I would give today to all players is that control
is still your most important weapon, even if you’re not getting
movement with the ball. Keeping a consistent line and length and
not giving free hits to a batter enables your skipper a chance to at
least set a field for you. If you haven’t got that control, work on it.

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 99.90 Sarah Elliot (née Edwards), Victorian Spirit
Player and Australian Representative
Coaching Tip
Batting in cricket is a game of mathematics. You need to have the
percentages in your favour when deciding on shot selection. If you
can do something 90 percent of the time at practice, then to do that
in a game is a low risk. Conversely, if you can only play a particular
shot 10 percent of the time in practice, the odds are against you
playing that shot successfully in a game.
Advice for Players
Each ball is an individual contest. The better you are at staying in
the now, the better you will perform.

99.94 You!

What wisdom can you add?

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About the Authors
Both Ken Davis and Neil Buszard have
devoted much of their lives to playing and
coaching cricket. Both played and coached
high-level grade cricket in Australia, coached
state representative teams, and represented
Australia. Neil was a player with the Austra-
lian baseball team and Ken was coach of the
Australian youth women’s team. Both batted
high in the order, bowled leg spin, and were
more than competent fielders.
With a background in teaching, it was
inevitable that both authors would be
attracted to coaching cricket. Both coached
Ken Davis
players for many years, guiding their teams
to achieve consistent success.
Neil moved from teaching to become the
head coach of cricket at the Victorian Insti-
tute of Sport in 1995, where he spent the
next 12 years. In that period, the Victorian
U19 team (of which he was coach for 10
years) won three national titles. They were
runners-up on another three occasions.
Graduates of Neil’s innovative and balanced
program have become elite cricketers, and
many have made their mark in other fields,
including cricket administration. Neil’s abil-
ity to develop people skills as well as cricket
skills sets him apart from many coaches. His
Neil Buszard
unbridled enthusiasm for the game, coupled
with his energetic and thoughtful approach to performance enhance-
ment, has long placed him at the forefront of coaching in Australia.
As a player, he played more than 300 games of premier cricket. A
division of the Victorian premier cricket competition was named in
his honour during the 2006-07 season. He was also a very successful
baseball player, representing Australia as a third baseman and winning
the coveted Helms award for the best player in Australia.

155
 Neil has always encouraged and valued his support staff. Merv
Hughes (Australian test selector), Darren Berry (Victorian captain
and now assistant state coach), Ben Oliver (International Cricket
Council development manager for south-east Asia), and Simon Helmot
(Victorian Academy coach) are just some of the people who would
class Buzz as a significant mentor in their coaching and professional
development.
Ken’s academic pursuits took him to Perth in 1972, where he com-
pleted a master’s degree in physical education. His thesis, entitled A
cinematographic analysis of fast bowling in cricket, was the catalyst for
more than 30 years of research of this explosive and often potentially
harmful motion in our sport.
During this time, in Perth, he played a part in Subiaco’s two pre-
mierships in three seasons. The first was under the control of world-
renowned coach Daryl Foster, and the second was under his own
direction against a Perth side that included the famous duo of Dennis
Lillee and Rod Marsh.
Ken worked with Frank Pyke and Gary Crouch to develop a suc-
cessful rehabilitation program for Lillee after his much-publicised
back injury. After returning from Perth, Ken continued to develop
his coaching skills at the Essendon and Geelong cricket clubs whilst
also lecturing at Deakin University.
In 1989, he completed a PhD in sport psychology from Florida State
University in the United States. He has subsequently worked with a
number of elite athletes and teams in the role of sport psychologist,
most notably with the Geelong and Richmond football teams in the
Australian Football League.
For the past 10 years, Ken has worked full time at Cricket Victoria
in a variety of roles, including coaching the Victorian Spirit women’s
team to two national titles and two second-place finishes in five seasons.
He also led the Australian women’s youth team in successful tours of
New Zealand and Sri Lanka.
Ken and Neil have both been heavily involved in coaches’ education
in Victoria for more than 30 years. Ken has published a number of
articles in referee and professional journals, and both have presented
at national and international conferences in cricket, sport science, and
related areas.
Both authors had mentors in their early years. Ken believes George
Tribe, who coached him at University C.C., was the most influential

156
in transforming his view of cricket from a pastime to a science. His
supportive, sport-loving family encouraged him to explore his passion.
Neil also had tremendous family encouragement. He drew many
of his coaching philosophies from former vice-captain of Australia’s
cricket team Keith Stackpole, legendary youth coach George Murray,
and Australian baseball coaches David Went and Lyn Straw.
The authors strongly believe that good cricket coaches can come
from a number of backgrounds. Some excellent coaches were outstand-
ing players, but just as many were good players who linked a thirst for
learning with the wisdom of their experience and sport science. The
authors of this book fall into the latter category. We hope you enjoy
their work.

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