The pre-season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time for cricketers to get ready for an exciting season ahead. Whether you are new to the game or aiming to take your skills to the next level, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into how to make the most out of the pre-season, with advice tailored to each age group and skill level.
Preseason Training - Cricket LAB Understand Tier (Under 11 and Below)
Focus Areas:
- Fundamental Skills: Emphasise lots of repetition in the fundamentals of batting, bowling, and fielding. It is important that these are not over coached at this age, and players are able to discover a technique that works for them.
- Enjoyment and Engagement: Create a fun environment to foster a love for the game.
It is vital at this early stage to balance fundamentals of the game, with enjoyment and discovery. As Richie Benaud, legendary Australian cricketer and commentator, once said, "The key to successful cricket is mastering the basics and building from there."
Training Frequency:
At this age group, training once or twice a week is a great way to start, however there is no maximum limit so long as the training is player driven, rather than parent / coach driven.
Training Environment:
At this age, it is great to utilise open spaces such as parks and ovals for training, to allow players to receive maximum feedback while training. Nets are not advised at such a young age, as players cannot fully develop a connection between an action and result.
Preseason Training - Cricket LAB Develop Tier (Under 11 to 14)
Focus Areas:
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Fundamental Skill Development: Continued high volume of fundamental techniques in your chosen skill set.
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Game Sense: Start to develop basic game sense skills through game based training exercises. According to Steve Waugh, former Australian cricket captain, "Understanding the game’s nuances is what separates good players from great ones."
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Fitness and Agility: Start to incorporate general fitness routines to improve agility and endurance.
Training Frequency:
At this age group, training 1-3 times per week is recommended, again with the priority on allowing a player to drive the amount of training they do.
Training Environment:
At this age we can use a mix of cricket nets and cricket pitches on ovals. Look look to vary your environment to promote self-feedback, rather than spending all of the time in the nets.
Preseason Training - Cricket LAB Transition Tier (Under 13 to 17)
Focus Areas:
- Technical Refinement: Fine-tune individual techniques and address any flaws.
- Tactical Awareness: Enhance strategic thinking through advanced game sense drills and match simulations. "Cricket is a thinking game. The smarter you play, the better you perform," notes Michael Clarke, former Australian cricket captain.
- Strength and Conditioning: Focus on building strength and endurance with a regular Strength and Conditioning Program.
Training Frequency:
At this level, we should be looking to train 3-4 times per week, with each session varied depending on your skill set. Pace bowlers should seek recommendations regarding their workload based on their physical development.
Training Environment:
For logistical reasons, a large amount of your training will be done in cricket nets. Prioritise any opportunity to bat / bowl in a centre wicket environment. Remember at this stage, each session should carry a specific focus, regardless of your training venue.
Wrapping Up
Pre-season training is all about building a strong foundation for the season ahead, no matter the skill level. By focusing on the key areas specific to your age and level, you will be well-prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy the season ahead. So, get out there, have fun, and make this pre-season your best one yet!
If you need guidance around your pre-season training, please contact CricketLAB today to work with our expert team of cricket coaches.