THE ROYAL MARINES

Cricket

CONTENTS
Student Notes

Teacher Notes

Prepared for The Royal Navy in Association with The National Cricket
Association and produced by Education & Youth Ltd, London.
If there is any support you feel The Royal Navy can give regarding this
project please contact 0870 333 0423.

MESSAGE FROM THE NATIONAL CRICKET ASSOCIATION

INTRODUCTION TO THE MODULE

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT SHEET

UNIT 1

INTRODUCTION TO CRICKET MODULE

UNIT 2

Acknowledgements

TECHNIQUES AND SKILLS

1 FIELDING

2 BOWLING

3 BATTING

14

4 WICKET KEEPING

22

These notes have been compiled by Bob Carter National Coach,

(Coach Education) The National Cricket Association

UNIT 3

TACTICS AND FIELD PLACEMENT

25

Technical Editor: P Edwards M.A.

UNIT 4

UMPIRING

28

UNIT 5

PHYSICAL CONDITIONING FOR CRICKET

30

UNIT 6

HISTORY OF CRICKET

34

UNIT 7

THE COMPETITIVE STRUCTURE OF THE SPORT.

35

UNIT 8

USEFUL INFORMATION

36

3
Message from The National Cricket Association
The National Cricket Association, founded in 1968 has several
objectives, two of which are especially relevant with reference to this
publication.
They are as follows:
-

to encourage the playing of cricket in accordance with the Laws of

Cricket and in the best traditions of Sportsmanship;

to administer a coaching scheme on a national basis on behalf of

the Cricket Council.

The National Coaching Scheme is highly regarded by all cricketing

nations as being in the vanguard of educational and coaching methods
at all levels. Additionally, two separate Proficiency Award tests are run
and administered by the NCA for primary and secondary school
children.
This instruction booklet is intended as a basic guide to students in
secondary schools wishing to follow the basic GCSE or equivalent
course as set out in the syllabi by the various examining boards.
However, anyone wishing to delve deeper into this subject should
consult the list of books for recommended reading, or if over the age
of 18, consider enrolling on a locally run Coaching Award Course.
Further information on the latest educational and coaching ideas are
published in Cricket Coach, the journal of the Association of Cricket
Coaches, or in Cricket World, an independent publication which
provides a forum for NCA official policy and news.

Introduction to the Module

Module Objectives:

Method:

After completing the Module students should be able:

Teachers should provide:

to understand the basic principles of the skills of the game,

tactics, field placement and umpiring signals

encouragement, support and motivation to students studying this

module

to apply this knowledge to improve their performance and

enjoyment in both practice and the game

access to facilities for practice and also suitable for the game
bearing in mind the ability of the players

to discuss the development of the game in recent times.

the opportunity for students to discuss and study any topics not
fully covered in the module due to lack of space, e.g. advanced
techniques, the Laws etc.

4
Skills Development Sheet
The beginning stage of learning cricket is the exploratory phase, where
the player is attempting to learn the correct sequence of movements
of all the basic skills e.g. Batting, bowling, fielding. A number of
errors may be made and players will require feedback to recognise
and correct these errors.
During the intermediate stage a player will perform more consistently.
Timing and anticipation will improve, although skills may break down
under the pressure of a game situation.
At the advanced stage all the basic skills are automatic and a player
will concentrate on more detailed aspects of the skill and the tactics
required in the game eg. Position of fielders.

Name of Module

Cricket

Basic Skills

Fielding, bowling, batting, wicket keeping (pages 6-24)

Game-play Skills

Good basic skills, techniques. A good understanding of the basic principles

and tactics. Ability to vary strokes and bowling techniques. Demonstrates
good concentration and alertness in the field (pages 6-24)

Tactical Skills

Bowling:

Encouraging dangerous strokes. Varying pace, flight, length,

spin and width of crease.

Batsmen:

Judgement and decision making; looking for gaps in the

field; noting ability of fielders and exploiting weaknesses.

Fielders:

Placing to
1) Catch batters
2) Stop runs. Adjusting field according to batter (pages 25-27)

Training Skills

Aerobic endurance, anaerobic endurance, flexibility (pages 30-33)

Rules

The Laws of Cricket can be obtained from the MCC. Address page 36.

5
UNIT 1
Introduction to Cricket Module
Cricket is a game steeped in tradition, in which it is often how you play
the game that is as important as winning. The expression Thats not
cricket embodied the ideal of fair play and good sportsmanship
which teachers and coaches should endeavour to foster at all levels.
There are may different levels of the game ranging from the Five Day
Test Match, the afternoon club match, the indoor six a side adults,
Kwik Cricket, Cricket Pairs game played by 10 year olds to the
simplest single wicket game of one bowler and one batsman. Each
require different degrees of ability, fitness, skills and commitment.
Early exposure to the skills required is a great help in the making of a
successful player, though some players have turned to the game at a
later age and achieved a good standard.
Learning the skills can be a very enjoyable experience with a great deal
of physical activity involved. It is also possible to structure the skill
learning so that simple competitions and small sided games prevent
the practices from becoming boring. They also provide opportunities
of introducing to beginners, in stages, small sections of the 42 Laws
governing the playing of the adult game.
The material covered in this book does not relate to any specific
Examination Boards syllabus, but is intended to provide a basic
resource which should be supported and supplemented by reference
to the texts listed in Recommended Reading.

6
UNIT 2
Techniques and Skills
In order to play cricket to examination level, students should have a
good practical and theoretical grasp of the 4 major activities of the
game:

Fielding

Bowling

Batting

Wicket keeping

1 Fielding
Essentially this involves catching and throwing in a variety of
circumstances both static or on the move.
CATCHING
The High Catch

Objective: To catch a ball which is dropping quickly.

Method:

Sight the ball.

Move quickly to where it will come down.
Stand still with hands up above eye level and palms facing
ball, fingers spread out, little fingers touching.
Hands give as ball is caught.
Finish close to chest (see Figure 1).

Figure 1

The Skim Catch

Objective: Primarily to catch a flat trajectory ball arriving about head

high.
Method:

Sight the ball, palms facing ball, fingers pointing upwards,

thumbs touching.
Hands give as ball is caught.
If ball is caught directly in front of head, move head to side
as hands give (see Figure 2).

Figure 2

7
The Close Catch

Objective: Primarily to deal with catches close to the wicket.

Method:

Eyes level.
Head still.
Palms facing anticipated line of ball.
Fingers pointing down, elbows clear of body.
Weight on balls of feet.
Hands give as ball is caught (see Figure 3).

Figure 3
INTERCEPTING AND RETURNING
The Long Barrier and Throw

Objective: The long barrier is used to ensure

the ball is stopped.
Method:

Head on line of ball.

Left knee on ground, overlapping
right heel.
Palms facing ball, fingers pointing
down.
Holding ball in right hand, stand up taking a
pace towards target with left foot.
Aim with left arm.
Weight on back foot which is at right angles to
line of throw.
Throw ball; follow-through over left leg with
right arm and right leg (see Figure 4).

Figure 4

8
CHASING AND RETRIEVING
The Short Throw

Objective: Run inside line of ball to enable right foot to land beside it.
Method:

Weight well back. Head over right knee, left foot trailing.
Pick ball up.
Turn to left into throwing position.
Aim and throw without further steps (see Figure 5).
(If the ball is moving quickly it may be necessary to take
several braking strides before turning and throwing.)

Figure 5

The Long Throw

Objective: To retrieve a ball after picking up near

the boundary.
Method:

Ensure left foot is forward alongside

ball.
Bend down keeping seat well back.
Pick ball up.
Push hard on left foot.
Turn to left, fling left arm into aiming
position and throw (see Figure 6).

Figure 6

Throwing on the Turn

NB This is an advanced technique, used to prevent
runs, or to secure a run out.

Method: Run inside line of ball.

Pick up ball alongside right foot.
Step onto left foot.
Jump, turning in the air.
Aim at target with left arm.
Throw while still in the air (see Figure 7).

Figure 7

9
General points for fielders
Expect every ball to come to you but do not anticipate its line,
height or speed.

If not fielding the ball, back up at either end to reduce

the chance of over-throws.

All fielders except close catchers should be moving in towards

the striker as the bowler delivers the ball.

If you are close to the bowlers wicket and he cannot get

back to it, move to it to take the return.

Slips, leg slip and wicketkeeper can watch the ball from the
bowlers hand; others watch the bat.

Concentrate all the time, keeping an eye on your captain

who may wish to move you.

Sight the ball before moving off in a particular direction; then

move quickly.

If there is a possibility of two fielders colliding when

going for the same ball the nearest should call mine or
the captain should shout the name of the player who is
to field the ball.

Whenever possible use two hands and get some part of the body
behind the ball unless this action would prevent a run out.
Having fielded a ball, throw it immediately to the wicketkeeper or,
if there is a chance of a run out, at the stumps.

2 Bowling
The first essential of effective
bowling is that the student
adopts the correct grip (see
Figure 8).
THE BASIC GRIP

Method:

Seam vertical.
Thumb on edge of
seam; first two
fingers slightly apart;
third finger bent and
supporting ball (see
Figure 8).

Having achieved this, the whole

skill should be introduced in a
simplified form, using the
following steps.

Figure 8
Step 1
Bowling from the Coil Position

Objective: To introduce the bowling action to beginners.

Method:

Raise front arm. Look over shoulder. Bowling hand across

chest.
Lean back. Lift front knee. Arch back slightly. Look down
intended line of delivery.
Swing bowling arm downwards and then backwards.
Swing front arm forwards. Stamp down with front foot.
Continue rotation of arms. Keep front arm close to body.
Straighten front leg. Keep head upright. Release ball as arm
passes head. Keep hand behind ball.
Swing front arm high behind body. Follow-through with
bowling arm across body. Bring back leg through, bent and
close to other leg. Bowling shoulder points to target.
Follow-through by taking steps forward (see Figure 9).

Figure 9

On cold days keep your muscles and hands warm to

prevent injury and to be ready for instant action.

10
Step 2
Run Up and Bound

Method:

Concentrate on line of delivery.

Smooth rhythmical approach.
Accelerate gradually. Control speed.
Bound (spring) off left foot. Raise both arms. Turn 90 in
air.
Land in coil position leaning back from batsman.
Repeat bowling action.
Practise bowling with a smooth and economical run-up and
easy rhythmical well balanced delivery, finishing with a
deliberate and fluent follow-through (see Figure 10).

Once players have mastered these steps they should be ready to

progress to more complex skills using swing and spin.

Figure 10

THE OUTSWING OR AWAY SWING

NB To do this it is essential that the ball used has a good seam.
The Grip

Method:

Seam vertical but pointing at slips.

Side of thumb on centre seam. First two fingers either side
of seam.
Polished side of ball to leg side (see Figure 11).

Figure 11

The Action

Method:

Bowl from close to stumps.

Look over front shoulder behind
front arm.
Back foot parallel with crease.
Front foot lands to leg side of
back foot.
High delivery, hand behind ball.
Emphasise good follow-through
of bowling arm and shoulder
(see Figure 12).

Figure 12

11
THE IN-SWING
The Grip

Method:

Hold the ball with the polished side

on the off side.
Seam vertical but pointing to leg
side.
Ball of thumb against seam.
First two fingers close together on
seam (see Figure 13).

The Action

Method:

Bowl from wider position on crease.

Open coil - more chest on.
Look inside arm. Back foot points
down pitch.
Front foot in line with or outside
back foot. High bowling arm on
release.
Feel as though pushing ball to
legside.
Bowling arm does not followthrough across body (see Figure
14).

Figure 13

Figure 14

12
OFF SPIN AND LEFT ARM ORTHODOX
SPIN (FINGER SPIN)
NB An off break spins the ball from off to
leg, rotating clockwise from the bowler. The
left arm spinner moves the ball from leg to
off.
The Grip

Method:

Hold ball in between first and

second fingers.
Seam at right angles to the
fingers.
Top joints across seam.
Knuckles of first finger and
second finger grip seam.
Do not use thumb to hold ball
(see Figure 15).

The Action

Method:

Shortish run up.

Good coil position; look behind
arm. Short delivery stride.
Front foot slightly across to leg
side.
High delivery, head up.
Pivot on ball of front foot.

Figure 15

Twist hand clockwise.

Flick ball with first finger.
Pull bowling arm across the
body.
Spin ball clockwise by turning
hand upwards.
Finish with palm upwards (see
Figure 16).

Figure 16

13
LEG SPIN OR CHINAMAN
NB A legbreak spins from leg to off, rotating anti-clockwise from
bowler. A left arm wrist spinner rotates the ball clockwise and is said
to bowl Chinamen.
The Grip

Method:

Seam at right angles to fingers.

First two fingers spread; first joints on seam.
Third finger bent along seam (see Figure 17).

Figure 17
The Action

Method:

Shortish run up.

Good coil position.
Look over shoulder.
Wrist bent in towards forearm.
Place front foot to leg side of back
foot.
Keep head up.
High delivery.
Hold wrist back.
Pivot around front foot.
Flick wrist forward.
Pull down with first finger.
Straighten third finger.
Flick third finger straight as ball is
released.
Continue across body, palm
downwards (see Figure 18).

Figure 18
CUTTERS FLOATER GOOGLY
Within a work of this size, it is impossible to cover the
advanced stages of bowling, although it is acknowledged
that some GCSE or equivalent syllabi demand that these
are included. Further information regarding these skills is
to be found by reference to the texts listed in
Recommended Reading.

14
3 Batting
Please note, throughout the module batsman also refers to
batswoman.
Batting in cricket is probably the most popular of all skills. Firstly, it
allows the player to score, and secondly he has the full attention of not
only both teams, but also the spectators.
When teaching batting it is essential that staff exercise great care in
selecting the surface on which the skill is performed. At school level
this is often a factor over which neither staff nor students have any
control. Nevertheless, staff should remain on the side of caution and
on bad pitches certain strokes should not be taught. It is accepted that
at least one Examining Board includes the hook within the syllabus.
The National Cricket Association (NCA) does not recommend that this
stroke be taught to inexperienced players, particularly if the pitch is
suspect. For this reason the hook and other advanced skills (lofted
shots, the sweep and the late cut) are omitted from this text.

Figure 19

BATTING SKILLS THE BASIC ELEMENTS

The Grip

Method:

Hands close together towards top of handle.

Top hand gripping very firmly.
Fingers and thumbs of both hands around handle.
Vs formed by thumb and forefinger are in line
approximately half way between splice and outside edge of
bat (see Figure 19).

The Stance

Method:

Feet slightly apart.

Knees slightly flexed, weight evenly distributed on balls of
feet not heels.
Eyes level and square to line of delivery.
Toe of bat on ground (see Figure 20).

Figure 20
THE BACKLIFT

Method:

Front shoulder and elbow pointing to bowler.

Bat raised but pushed back over middle-stump.
Head still.
Open face of bat to point.
Top forearm roughly parallel with ground.
Back elbow away from body.
No movement of body backwards or forwards until
selection of stroke to be played is made (see Figure 21).

Figure 21

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THE BASIC SHOTS
The Pull
This stroke is played to a short pitched ball bouncing between knee
and chest height as it arrives at the batsman. This is known as a long
hop.
When learning strokes, a firm level surface is required in order to
achieve an even predictable bounce from a tennis ball. Extreme care
must be taken to ensure that no batsman will hit a ball into an area
where others are working. Sufficient space must be allowed so that
individual batsmen do not strike any person from another group with
the bat. No fielder is allowed nearer than 10 paces from the batsman.
If practising inside, the batsman can strike the ball towards a wall and
the fielders can intercept the ball on the rebound from the wall at a
position nearer the striker but on the opposite side from the direction
in which the ball was struck.

Method:

Start with high back

lift.
Step back and
across, with both feet
square to the wicket.
Fix eyes on ball and
keep head still and
forward of body.
Hit ball at arms
length in line with
body.
Aim to hit ball in front
of square-leg and
downwards.
Transfer weight from
back to front leg (see
Figure 22).

Figure 22

Hitting a Full Toss to Leg

Objective: To play a ball which

does not bounce before
arriving at the batsman.
Method:

High backlift.
Lean forward, head and
front shoulder leading
on to line of ball.
Fix eyes on ball.
Hit ball downwards at
arms length.
Aim in front of squareleg.
Weight on front leg.
Keep looking at place
where contact was
made in order to keep
head still and maintain
balance (see Figure
23).

Figure 23

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Back Defensive Stroke

Objective: This stroke is played to a ball pitching short and

bouncing knee high or above.
Method:

High back lift.

Step back and across towards off side if ball is on off
stump.
Back foot parallel with crease.
Back of front shoulder turned slightly.
Head on line of delivery.
Weight on back foot.
Balance of body forward.
Front foot brought back naturally.
Relax bottom hand to finger and thumb grip.
Top hand in control.
Ball is played under head.
Bat vertical but angled downwards so that ball is not
played upwards (see Figure 24).

Figure 24

The Forward Defence Stroke

Objective: To prevent a good length ball from hitting the wicket.

The ball should not bounce as high as the knee.
Method:

From a good straight backlift lead with head and front

shoulder onto the line of the ball.
Top hand in control.
Relax bottom hand to thumb and finger grip.
Front leg close to line of ball and bent at knee.
Ease back foot onto inside of foot; keep back leg
straight.
Do not follow-through.
Maintain a good balance by keeping head close to
front shoulder and over the bat (see Figure 25).

Figure 25

17
The Off Drive

Objective: To play to a half-volley, a ball which pitches

close to the batsman and does not bounce
very high. It will be just on or outside the off
stump.
Method:

From a good high backlift, lead with head

and front shoulder onto line of ball.
Top hand in control.
Play ball under head close to bent front leg.
Do not lift head after contact.
Arms follow-through along line ball was
struck; top hand and elbow high.
Back leg straight; weight on front foot.
The wrist can now break allowing the bat
to go over the shoulder, handle pointing
roughly in direction of ball (see Figure 26).

The Straight Drive

Objective: To play to a half-volley which pitches

approximately on the line of the middlestump.
Method:

In all ways similar to off drive but the lead

of head and front shoulder is straight down
the pitch.

Figure 26

The On Drive

Objective: This stroke is played to a half-volley, pitching

on or just outside the leg stump.
Method:

Very similar to other drives.

Lead with head and front shoulder onto line
of ball.
Dip front shoulder while taking a shorter
stride than for other drives.
Throw hands and arms out along line ball is
intended to be struck.
Keep head close to shoulder. Top hand in
control all the time (see Figure 27).

Figure 27

18
The Forcing Stroke Off the Back Foot

Objective: This stroke is played to a ball short of a

length outside the off stump which does
not bounce more than about knee height.
Method:

Essential to have a good high back lift.

Step back and slightly across to offside
just inside the line of ball.
Back foot parallel to crease.
Front shoulder turned slightly to off side.
Weight on back foot.
Head down.
Control downswing of bat with top hand.
Allow front leg to move close to back leg.
Just before contact with ball punch
through with bottom hand.
Stop (check) swing of bat as shown,
keeping a high front elbow.
Keep looking at spot contact was made to
maintain balance and forward poise of
body (see Figure 28).

Figure 28

The Square Cut

Objective: This stroke is played to a short pitched

ball which passes wide of the off stump,
ideally about waist high.
Method:

High backlift.
Turn back of front shoulder to bowler.
Step back and across to off side with
back foot.
Hit down on the ball at arms length.
Watch ball carefully, making contact as it
is level with body.
Keep head well over back knee as bat
follows through.
Weight is on back foot (see Figure 29).

Figure 29

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The Forward Leg Glance

Objective: This stroke is played to a good length or

slightly over pitched ball on or outside
the leg stump.
Method:

Lead with head and front shoulder onto

line of ball.
Front foot lands in line with ball; top
hand in control.
Angle face of bat slightly to leg side.
Keep handle further forward than blade
to play ball down.
Maintain a good balance by keeping
head over front knee as ball is played
and afterwards.
Allow wrists to continue to turn as bat
follows through (see Figure 30).

Figure 30

The Backward Leg Glance

Objective: This stroke is played to a ball just short

of a length which is missing the leg
stump.
Method:

Step back, allowing back foot to point to

cover.
Head on line of ball.
Front foot taken back naturally.
Allow ball to come close.
Play ball down with angled bat, face
pointing to leg side.
Control stroke with top hand.
Wrists continue to turn as bat follows
through (see Figure 31).

Figure 31

For details and descriptions of more advanced

strokes reference should be made to
Recommended Reading.

20
Running Between the Wickets
In order to score in cricket it is
necessary for the batsman to
run between the wickets. While
this may appear blatantly
obvious, there is nevertheless a
degree of judgement as well as
physical skill involved, and staff
are recommended to spend
some time on this topic within
the time allotted to teaching and
practising batting.
Running between the wickets
involves 5 factors:

Either batsman may refuse to

run if he thinks he cannot make
the run, provided he does so
immediately.
Backing Up
The non-striker holds his bat
with the hand nearest the
bowler. As the bowler
commences his delivery, the non
striker is moving towards his
partner, placing his bat just
inside the popping crease. He
watches the bowler deliver the

ball before leaving the crease

and moving down the pitch. If
the bowler does not deliver the
ball, he is able to remain within
his ground because the bat is
grounded behind the crease.
The non strikers duty is to run
clear of the striker so that he
does not impede him if the
striker, due to the stroke he has
played, has to run on the same
side of the pitch (see Figure 33).

(1) Calling
(2) Deciding who makes the call
(3) Backing up
(4) Making ones ground
(5) Multiple runs
Calling
There are three calls:
Yes when there is definitely a
run
No

when there is no chance

of a run

Wait if unsure whether the

fielder can collect the
ball
Wait is always followed quickly
by either yes or no.
Whose Call
This depends on where the ball
has been struck. Generally if the
striker can see the ball easily it
is his call. If it has gone behind
the striker it would be the non
strikers call (see Figure 32).

Figure 33

Non strikers call

Figure 32

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Making Ones Ground
Always run the first run as fast as
possible. Aim to run the bat in
short of the popping crease so
that it is grounded as it crosses
the crease (see Figure 34).
Multiple Runs
When there is a possibility of
more than one run, the call is yes,
but as the batsmen pass each
other they should quietly suggest
the possibility: Look for two,
Could be three.
Ground the bat in either left or
right hand so that the turn can be
made facing the direction in
which the ball is being fielded.
Turn
Look at the fielder to see
whether there is another
run.

Figure 34

Look at the other batsman to

ensure he can run again.
Call run if yes, stay in ground
if no (see Figure 35).

Figure 35
General Points
If both batsmen start to run it is better to try and get to the other end
than to stop and return to the starting point.
Ensure the bat is run in on its edge and grounded behind the popping
crease before turning for the next run.
Before running for a misfield, ensure that the ball has travelled a
sufficient distance from the fielder to allow a safe run. Having
accepted a run, do not watch the ball when running.

22
4 Wicket Keeping
There are 2 positions from which to keep wicket.

Standing back from the wicket.

Standing up to the wicket.

Standing Back

Method:

Position where ball can be taken as it drops between waist

and knee height after bouncing.
Crouch to off side of stumps to get a clear view of ball.
Rise with bounce of ball.
Palms facing ball, little fingers touching.
Hands forward to give as ball is taken.
Eyes level; head as still as possible (see Figure 36).

Figure 36
Standing up to the Wicket The Stance

Method:

Squat down just wide enough to obtain a good view of ball.

Safe distance behind stumps so that no part of keeper or
his/her equipment breaks back edge of bowling crease as
ball is taken.
Eyes level, weight on balls of feet.
Backs of fingers resting on ground, palms facing
bowler(see Figure 37).

Figure 37

23
Standing Up to the Wicket Taking a Straight Ball

Method:

Head and body behind line of ball.

Rise with bounce of ball.
Fingers pointing down.
Hands give and elbows clear of body as ball is taken.
Transfer weight to foot nearest stumps to commence
bringing ball towards wicket in case of stumping
opportunity (see Figure 38).

Figure 38

Standing Up to the Wicket Taking a Wide Offside Ball

Method:

Move quickly to offside with outside foot turned in.

Hands on line of ball.
Give with hands.
Transfer weight towards stumps by pushing head towards
them.
Swing arms towards wicket.
Knock bails off if batsman is to be stumped (see Figure
39).

Figure 39

Standing Up to the Wicket Taking a Legside Ball

Method:

Sight and judge ball from normal stance.

Move quickly to leg side.
Transfer weight from left foot which has turned in slightly,
to right.
Take ball just outside line of body.
Push head towards wicket to assist swing of arms to break
wicket if necessary (see Figure 40).

Figure 40

24
Standing Up to the Wicket Taking a Rising Ball

Method:

This applies to leg and offside.

Keep gloves on line of ball.
Sway head and body off the line; allow gloves to rise with
ball.
Push head towards stumps to assist arm swing back for
possible stumping (see Figure 41).

Figure 41
Taking Returns From the Field

Method:

Move quickly to put the wicket between the ball and the
wicket keeper.
Whenever possible take the ball on the full toss unless this
would mean missing the chance of a run out.
Always try to take the ball in the gloves. Pads are for
protection should the ball be missed; they are not a front
line of defence.
If a fielder is chasing a ball with his back to the wicket
keeper it helps the fielder to sight the keeper as he turns if
a gloved hand is held above the keepers head.
Be prepared to remove a glove in order to throw the ball at
the bowlers wicket if a run out is possible at that end.

25
UNIT 3
Tactics and Field Placement
It has not been possible to cover these topics in any detail, and again
teachers are referred to more comprehensive texts.
In terms of tactics this section has been sub-divided into key points for
consideration when examining the tactics of the game from the
perspective of the bowler and the batsman.
THE BOWLER
Tactics for Seam Bowlers
Bowl at the wicket or just outside off stump.
When attempting to swing the ball, aim to pitch the ball close to the
batsman to encourage front foot strokes, i.e. bowl a full length.
Vary length from time to time so that batsman has to think whether to
play forward or back. Bowl the occasional bouncer.
Encourage dangerous strokes by leaving gaps in the field and pitching the
ball so that it is difficult to hit the ball into those gaps.
Frustrate batsman by bowling to avoid his favourite strokes, e.g. keep
front foot players on the back foot by bowling shorter length balls.
Do not bowl too many variations, e.g. outswinger, inswinger, off cutter,
leg cutter. It is difficult to set fields for a great variety of balls. Do vary
your position on the crease.
If one batsman is poor try to bowl at him most of the time by allowing the
better batsman the opportunity of scoring singles early in the over by
setting the field deeper.
Towards the end of an over do not allow the better batsman a single so
that he faces the next over. Bring the field in to stop the single.
Tactics for Spin Bowlers
Much of the previous section on tactics for seam bowlers applies to spin
bowlers with the addition of the following:
It is essential to bowl a good or even fuller length.
Always try to spin the ball even if the pitch appears unresponsive.
Use the variations sparingly, e.g. floater, arm ball, etc.
Vary pace and flight, i.e. release ball earlier to give a high trajectory and
later to give a low trajectory.
Use width of crease and change from round the wicket to over wicket or
vice versa if necessary.
Adjust field to attack defensive batsman and set field to cut off runs for an
attacking batsman.
If not successful at one end ask to bowl from the other.
THE BATSMAN
Tactics for Batsmen
Batting in cricket not only involves high levels of physical skill, but also
judgemental and decision making skills. The batsman has to make
decisions regarding his reaction to the tactics of the opposition. The
speed of this decision making will be dictated externally, i.e. externally
paced, or influenced by the speed and accuracy of the bowler, the field
placement of the opposition, the stage in the innings, and the stage in the
match. Often players have to make decisions based on anticipated
outcomes. In other words, the speed of the ball will be too fast for the
human visual system to track, and therefore a player must predict what
will happen and base his/her decision on this judgement. At school level
the task is easier in terms of the speed of bowlers, but difficult in terms of
the batsmans experience. The following should act as basic guidelines.

26
Stroke Selection
Early on, play well pitched up and straight balls between mid-on and midoff with straight bat strokes.
Hit bad balls to side that they are swinging or spinning. Do not try to hit
them too hard.
If pitch has variable bounce, do not hook and be on your guard for
shooters.
Pick bat up early, particularly against faster bowlers, so that you have time
to come down on the ball.
Only play defensive strokes to balls which will hit the wicket or which
would otherwise hit you.
An additional judgement must be made following stroke production, and
that is how and when to attempt to score runs.
Scoring Runs
Check the field setting for obvious gaps or fielders set too deep to stop
singles.
Note which fielders are left handed, slow movers, poor throwers.
Be prepared for quick singles, back up when non-striker and run first and
hard.
Relax hands when playing defensive strokes so that the ball does not roll
far from the bat. Fielders may now have to remain close to wicket to
prevent singles. A firm push may now beat the fielder as he is too close to
react to save the single.
If a fielder is dropped back, do not try to hit the ball over him; aim for the
gap he has left or try to hit to another part of the field.
If you are having difficulty scoring off or playing a particular bowler, get
your partner to try to remain facing that bowler as much as possible.
Against spinners, using the feet to get to the pitch or full toss may help to
pierce the field.
Be patient sooner or later the bowler will bowl a bad ball.
The tactics of both bowler and batsmen will interact with those of the
fielders. It is therefore important that players know how to set fields to
support the teams tactical objectives.
Field Setting
Fielders are placed in specific places for two reasons:

To catch an opponent out

To stop the batsman scoring runs

There are three types of fielding positions:

Close catchers slips, gully, short leg etc.

Fielders saving one run cover, mid on, square leg etc.

Boundary fielders stopping boundaries deep third man, deep fine

leg, long off etc.

Occasionally it may be necessary to place fielders halfway to the

boundary, if it is a very long boundary and the well hit ball will not reach
the normally placed boundary fielder. Alternatively a batsman may be
known to hit a ball regularly to the place where the field is sited.

27
Guidelines: The faster the bowler, the faster the pitch, the finer the field is
set.
The slower the bowler, the slower the pitch, the straighter and
squarer the field.
Set the field so that good balls are played to the fielders.
If the bowler bowls a lot of bad balls, change the bowler not
the field setting.
Fielders must also be told to move as in Figure 42 below.

Deep-Mid-Off

Deep-Mid-On

Long-Off

Long-On

Move Straighter

Deep-Extra-Cover

Move Squarer
Mid-Off

Mid-On

Bowler

Extra-Cover

Mid-Wicket

Cover

Short-Extra-Cover
Silly-Mid-Off

Silly-Mid-On

Deep-Mid-Wicket

ForwardShort-Leg
Square-Leg

Backward-
Deep-Square-Leg Short-Leg
Move Backwards

Move Wider

Cover Point

Silly-Point

Gully

Leg-Slip

Wicket-Keeper
Third-Slip
First-Slip
Second-Slip

Long-Leg
Deep-Third-Man
Deep-Fine-Leg

Figure 42
Closer means move towards the batsman.
Deeper means move farther away from the batsman.

Short-ThirdMan

Move Finer

28
UNIT 4
Umpiring
The umpires are the sole judges of all matters concerning the game
once the toss for innings has been made. They decide whether it is fit
or unfit to play, make all decisions regarding the laws and officially
check the scores at the end of the game to confirm the result.

Point

Bowling Umpire

Ball struck here

Moves to here for run out

Square Leg Umpire

Figure 43

Figure 44
The bowling end umpire stands in line with the wickets (see Figure 43)
and makes decisions about the placement of the bowlers feet for the
fairness of delivery, LBW etc. He may move up to the wicket or back if
requested by the bowler, but he must be in a position to carry out his
function.
When a run is being taken, the bowling umpire moves to the same
side of the pitch as the ball and level with the popping crease, to get in
the best position to give a decision for a run out as in the diagram.
The other umpire usually stands level with the popping crease at
square leg (see Figure 44). However, if the sun or fielder interfere with
his view he can stand at Point. His principal function is to give
decisions on stumpings, run outs etc. at the strikers end.
The bowling umpire starts the game by calling Play. After six
legitimate balls he calls Over; at the end of play he calls Time and
removes the bails. During the game he gives the following signals to
the scorers to inform them of what is happening. There is no signal
for one or more runs scored from the bat, unless a boundary is
scored. No signal will be given if a batsman is not out on appeal but
the umpire will say Not out. Umpires communicate their decisions to
both players and spectators through a series of signals (see Table 1).

29
Table 1: The Umpire Signals

No-Ball

Wide

Leg-bye

Bye

Six

Four. Arm waved.

Dead Ball also called

Out

Short Run. The number of runs short to be called.

NB the umpire will not allow the game to continue until the scorers
have acknowledged his signal.

30
UNIT 5
Physical Conditioning for Cricket
The degree of fitness required to play depends upon the level and type
of match played. Generally cricket is played over longer periods of
time than other games; therefore the training has different aspects. To
be successful it is necessary to have a high skill level, so there must
be a great deal of time spent in skill training.
Before any vigorous activity it is wise to warm up 2/5 minutes gentle
jogging, followed by simple stretching exercises.
General Fitness Aerobic Endurance
Any sustained activity, preferably running, which lasts over 20
minutes.
Cross country over different surfaces sand, shingle, ploughed fields,
uphill very useful.
Swimming and cycling may also help.
General Fitness Anaerobic Endurance
Short bursts of very high energy expenditure, activity lasting 20-40
seconds.
Shuttle running
Fielding shuttles

Examples of fielding shuttles

10 Paces
F

10 Paces

15 Paces

F
A

w/k

Fielder F runs levels with A to catch thrown ball and returns it to

keeper. F then runs level with B who throws another ball to be caught
and thrown to keeper. Repeat 6 times.

w/k
A
A throws ball out. F chases pick up, throws to keeper and returns to
starting point. Repeat 6 times.

31
General Fitness Flexibility or Mobility
All players need to have a good range of movement in all joints. When
fully warmed up or at the end of physical activity, take each limb and
joint to its end position, press and hold for several seconds. Relax and
repeat (see Figures 45 a-c).

Figure 45a

Specific Fitness
Analyse each players activity to discover what type of training he/she
needs.
1. Batsmen
have to be able to run and turn quickly wearing
equipment.

Suggested Activity :
Shuttles of 5 runs, 20 yards long wearing full
equipment, carrying a bat.

need to have strong wrists.

Suggested Activities:
Wrist rolling, i. e. winding a weight on a stick up
and down as quickly as possible.

Figure 45b

Squeezing grips, squash balls etc.

2. Wicketkeepers have to move from a squatting position very
quickly.

Suggested Activities:
Hopping, bounding, skipping etc.
Shuttle from squatting position to stumps to
catch a ball and then return to squatting start
position before repeating 6 times.

Figure 45c

have to be able to dive and catch.

Suggested Activity:
Practice from squatting position: run five paces to
side, dive onto mat turning shoulder underneath.
Repeat in opposite direction starting from
squatting position each time (see Figure 46).

Figure 46

32
3 . Bowlers need to be fit, flexible, and strong and have a good
recovery rate.
Special attention needs to be paid to warm up and
stretching to prevent injury, particularly to the groin,
back and shoulder.
Groin Exercise
Feet astride, bend right knee with left leg straight and
weight pressing inwards.
Change legs (see Figure 47).

Figure 47
Back Exercise
Lie on stomach, hands behind head.
Raise chest off ground (see Figure 48).

Figure 48
Hold a partner in wheelbarrow position; lift him/her in
air. Partner helps by pushing up and arching back (see
Figure 49).

Figure 49
Lie on back; bring right knee up, and then swing to left
to touch ground with knee (see Figure 50).

Figure 50

33
Return to lie on back. Bring left knee up and swing to
right to touch ground.
Return to start position and repeat (see Figure 51).

Bowlers should also do shuttles, bounding, hopping skipping etc. to

strengthen legs.

Figure 51
Shoulder Exercise
Mobility and strength in the
shoulders is essential for
bowlers. Arm circles with one
arm forwards and backwards
followed by both arms together
will maintain mobility (see
Figure 52).

Figure 52
Standing in pairs, one in bowling
position with arm straight at 45
to horizontal, attempts to bring
his/her arm down against
resistance from partner.
Use left and right arms (see
Figure 53).

Figure 53
Within the curriculum, physical conditioning should only be included
as part of any lesson, and while it is important that students are fit to
play, the techniques, skills and tactics of the game must take the
majority of time. However, it is important that students understand the
theory underpinning fitness for cricket, and can apply the theory
within examination and project work.

34
UNIT 6
History of Cricket
The origins of cricket are not clearly documented. However, it is clear
that from earliest times people played games which involved striking
an object with a stick. Some of the more interesting or key dates are
listed below. Further details may be obtained by reference to texts
included in Recommended Reading.
Earliest Recordings
Date

Event or Record

Test Cricket

1300

Documented evidence that Prince Edward played a

game called Creag.

1736

Sailors recorded as playing cricket near Lisbon.

1844

First international between USA and Canada.

1344

A document in the Bodleian Library illustrates a

cricket-like game being played.

1859

First tour by England of USA and Canada.

1861-62

First tour of Australia.

1876-77

First test matches played.

1878

Australians travel to England.

1880

First test match played in England.

1882

England beaten by Australia at the Oval. The Sporting

Times reported The body will be cremated and the
ashes taken to Australia.

1882-83

England beat Australia in Melbourne. Some ladies

burned a bail, sealed the ashes in an urn and gave it to
the English Captain. On his death the ashes were left
to the MCC, and this is the basis of the Ashes
competition.

1909

Imperial Cricket Conference established to administer

cricket worldwide.

1965

The name was changed to the International Cricket

Conference.

1968

The Test and County Cricket Board was established to

run test cricket, and the National Cricket Association to
foster interest in coaching and the recreational game.

The Saxon word cricce or cric (a staff or crooked

stick) may be the origin of the name.
1500 and 1598 Records at Guildford mention Creckett and refer to
playing crecket and other plaies.
1611

Chichester Court two men fined for playing cricket

on Sunday.

1624

The first recorded fatality, when Jasper Vinall died

after having been accidentally struck with a cricket bat.

17th century

Some evidence that cricket may have been played in

public schools.

The Start of the Modern Game

1744

The Laws of the game first written down and printed.

1787

The formation of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).

1788

The MCC revised the laws.

1864

The modern over arm style of bowling was made legal.

The game was further developed following improvements to the

grounds as a result of the use of the heavy roller. Additionally,
between 1850-1855 mowing machines were first used.
The latter half of the 19th century was the era of W. G. Grace who,
during his career, made 54,896 runs and took 2,864 wickets. He
retired in 1908.

The MCC administer the Laws both at home and abroad.

The History of County Cricket

All three of the above form the Cricket Council, the governing body of
the sport. There are also the Minor Counties Association, the Irish
Cricket Union, the Scottish Cricket Union and the Welsh Cricket
Association.

1787

The first county club, Oxfordshire.

1989

1853

The first county champions, Nottinghamshire.

The International Cricket Conference renamed the

International Cricket Council.

1992

South Africa re-admited to international cricket.

NB: At this time the press decided who were the champions.
1890

County Secretaries officially acknowledged the

championships.

35
UNIT 7
The Competitive Structure of the Sport.
The First Class Game

Recreational Cricket

The professional game in Great Britain is run in the form of a league.

Eighteen counties play a mixture of sixteen 3-day and six 4-day
matches regulated by the Test and County Cricket Board. This league
is known as the Britannic Assurance County Championship, named
after the present sponsors.

Recreational or non-professional cricket is organised by the National

Cricket Association.

The number of counties remained constant since Glamorgan became

a member in 1921 until 1991. Durham became the eighteenth
member in 1992. Unlike football, there is no specific number of teams
which should be in the league. The reason other counties, known as
the Minor Counties, have not become members is the cost of setting
up and running a team. A small county such as Worcestershire spent
nearly 900,000 on running theirs in 1989. An additional expensive
problem is the provision of a suitable ground together with the
facilities required for spectators.
Because gates declined in the late fifties, limited-over cricket started
in 1963 with the Gillette Cup competition of 65 overs per side. This
was an instant financial success and was followed by the John Player
League, 40-over matches which commenced on Sunday afternoons in
1969. This was a league competition, the teams playing each other
once.

It has a professional staff at Lords and several National Coaches

based in the regions who are responsible for the development of play
at all levels, together with the training of coaches. To assist individual
clubs, there are part-time development officers who try to stimulate
interest in coaching, youth development and NCA projects.
Clubs who join NCA can take part in competitions indoors and
outdoors. Individual members may be nominated to play for other
county associations in the NCA County Championship sponsored by
Notts Sport Limited. Outstanding players are invited to play in the NCA
England Amateur Eleven.
Many clubs run youth teams which enter competitions for various age
groups, such as the U13 eight-a-side competition for the Nat West
Bank Ken Barrington Cup. An U15 competition is for the Sun Life of
Canada Club Cricket Championship. Texaco sponsor the U16 County
Championship which is contested by the best players selected for
individual county association. Schools cricket is organised by the
English Schools Cricket Association and there is a good liaison
between them and the NCA.

The next competition was Benson and Hedges, a 55-over game which
was played initially as a regional league with the top two teams going
forward into a knock out competition.

League cricket is organised by each individual league which has its

own rules for membership, playing regulations, discipline etc.

Over the years the sponsors have changed. The Gillette Cup is now a
60-over competition for the Nat West Trophy; the John Player
competition became the Refuge Assurance League and is now
awaiting a new sponsor.

The Minor Counties Cricket Association was formed in 1895 to look

after and promote their interests. A minor county is one that does not
play in the First Class Championship. Usually they play 2-day 2innings matches as well as taking part in the Nat West Knock-out
Competition.

The international scene has been affected in the same way, with three
One-Day test matches played in addition to five or six, 5-day Test
Matches played against touring teams. Texaco sponsor the One-Day
matches and Cornhill Insurance the 5-day matches.

The Womens Cricket Association is organised on either a county or a

regional area basis, depending on the strength of the game in the
specific area.

The Test Matches are staged at Birmingham, Leeds, London,

Manchester and Nottingham. There is no national stadium such as
Wembley for football. The nearest equivalent is Lords, owned by
MCC and the home ground of Middlesex.

36
UNIT 8
Useful Information
Recommended reading
The Handbook of Cricket, K. V. Andrew

ISBN 0 7207 1789 I

The Skills of Cricket, K. V. Andrew

ISBN 1 85223 237 4

Cricket The Techniques of the Game, Andrew, Carter, Lenham

ISBN 0 7158 0574 6 or ISBN 0 7158 0642 4
A History of Cricket, B. Green
The MCC Cricket Coaching Book
Wisden Cricketers Almanack
Test Cricket in Clubs and Schools

ISBN 0 7126 2080 X

(Fourth Edition)
(Printed Annually)
(Available from NCA)

How to Coach Cricket, R. Dellor

ISBN 0 00 218 319 6 or ISBN 0 00 218 369 2
Games for Cricket Training, A. Oakman

ISBN 0 7207 1233 8

The Laws of Cricket (1980 Code) Second Edition 1992.

(Available from MCC, price 1.50)

Useful addresses
E.C.B
Lords Cricket Ground
London
NW8 8QZ
Telephone 0207 432 1200

Coach Education Office

c/o Warwickshire County Cricket Ground
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B5 7QX
Telephone 0121 440 1748