
SImple, Effective Activity to get the keeper to use their feet to move Left or Right (Off-Side/Leg-Side) to take the ball on the inside of the body. Simulates keeping to pace bowlers.
SET UP In front of stumps set up 3 lines of cones to form 2 lanes (off-side & leg-side lanes). 2 cones in line with the 2 outside stumps then 2 outside cones as markers for keeper to try to move toward. Keeper stands in normal crouch position as they would to a pace bowler. Start with assuming a right hand batter is facing. Coach/Thrower stands back a distance from the stumps to mimic a bolwer. Coach throws a ball down the lane of cones outside off stump, pitching it in the lane. Keeper must move toward the outside cone to take the ball in the inside line of the body. Once taken keeper continues side stepping to the outside cone and palms off ball to the ball drop zone (mimicking palming off to slip). Change to a left hand batter and repeat. Then start challenging leg side takes. NOTE: This activity is not to be overly repetitive so make it focussed on skill execution, then change left & right sides and then takeing the ball down leg side etc.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
Pre-season is the best time to rebuild and refine batting technique without the pressure of match results. This article covers the fundamental batting positions that underpin consistent run-scoring, provides a progressive session framework from shadow batting to live bowling, and highlights the common pre-season mistakes that coaches should avoid.
Fielding placement in limited overs cricket is a tactical chess match that changes with every phase of the innings. This article breaks down how captains should set fields during the powerplay, middle overs, and death overs, and provides practical coaching sessions for developing game-aware fielders who anticipate rather than react.
With IPL 2026 starting this month, we break down the art of powerplay bowling - field placement, line and length, and how to turn the fielding restrictions to your advantage.