Let’s face it: everyone wants to play better cricket, but not everyone knows where to start. If you’re tired of just slogging balls in the backyard and want to see real improvement whether you’re a club regular or just love a weekend hit-these five drills are for you. Grab your gear, round up a mate, and let’s get to work.
1. Batting with a Bowling Machine: Find Your Rhythm
If you’ve never faced a bowling machine before, you’re missing out. It’s the closest thing to real match pressure without a bowler staring you down. Start slow, there’s no shame in getting your eye in. Once you’re comfy, dial up the speed and challenge yourself. Don’t just whack everything; work on your drives, your pulls, your cuts, and even those defensive blocks that save your wicket. Variety is the spice of cricket.
Why bother?
Facing balls at different speeds and angles is the best way to train your reflexes and sharpen your shot selection. Plus, the more you repeat those shots, the more your muscles remember what to do when it counts.
What you’ll need:
A bowling machine, your favourite cricket bat, a trusty helmet, pads, and a stash of cricket balls.
2. Fielding Drills: Turn Drops into Catches
Let’s be honest: nobody wants to be the one who fumbles an easy catch. Good fielding can turn a game on its head. Grab a mate or set up a rebound net and see how many high balls you can take cleanly. Practice those diving stops-even if you end up with grass stains on your whites. And don’t forget to work on those rocket throws back to the stumps. Make it a competition if you want; a bit of friendly rivalry never hurt anyone.
Why bother?
Sharp reflexes and quick hands are what separate the average fielders from the legends. The more you practice, the more natural it’ll feel when the pressure’s on.
What you’ll need:
A handful of cricket balls, a solid pair of gloves, a rebound net or a willing partner, and maybe some cones if you’re feeling fancy.
3. Shadow Bowling: Fix Your Action Without Wrecking Your Shoulder
You don’t need a ball or even much space-for this one. Find a mirror or prop up your phone and record yourself going through your bowling action. Focus on your run-up, your delivery stride, and that all-important follow-through. It’s a chance to iron out any kinks without worrying about where the ball ends up. If something looks off, tweak it. You’ll be surprised how much you can improve just by watching yourself.
Why bother?
Shadow bowling is a safe way to build good habits and muscle memory, minus the risk of overdoing it and ending up on the physio’s table.
What you’ll need:
Just a mirror or your phone. If you want to get into the zone, lace up your cricket shoes.
4. Batting Against Spin: Don’t Get Stumped
Spin can make even the best batters look silly. If you’ve got a mate who bowls spin, rope them in. Otherwise, set your bowling machine to spin mode, or check out the portable spintech mat. Pay attention to your footwork-step forward for those full deliveries, rock back if it’s short, and practice both attacking and defensive shots. The goal? Make sure you’re not left flat-footed when the ball starts turning.
Why bother?
Reading spin and reacting with the right footwork is what keeps you at the crease. The more you practice, the less likely you’ll be to fall for a sneaky doosra or a sharp-turning leggie.
What you’ll need:
A few cricket balls that grip and turn, your go-to bat, helmet, and pads.
5. Strength and Conditioning: Build Your Cricket Engine
Cricket isn’t all about skill. If you want to last a whole match (and still have energy for a post-game snag), you’ve got to be fit. Mix up your workouts with some strength training, sprints, and longer runs. Work on your core, legs, and upper body. Don’t forget to stretch or do some yoga-your future self will thank you.
Why bother?
Fitness keeps you sharp, helps you recover faster, and means you can give it your all from the first ball to the last.
What you’ll need:
A set of dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, a bit of space for sprints, a yoga mat, and your favourite cricket shoes.
One Last Tip:
If you’re tired of scrambling for gear before every session, do yourself a favour and get a decent cricket bag. You’ll thank yourself later.
Ready to get stuck in? With these drills and the right kit, you’ll be well on your way to playing your best cricket yet. And if you need to upgrade your gear, Cricket World Australia has everything you need to get started-no matter your level. See you in the nets!
