When we start playing cricket, most of us want to be fast bowlers but whether you’re new to the game or more experienced, these drills will help your action and performance. How to Improve Line and Length in Fast Bowling Pace is important but you should avoid bowling deliveries in the wrong areas. Hitting a …
Fast Bowling Practise Drills: How to Improve Line and Length Read More »
Full articles on cricket protective equipment can be found across this site but which are the best products? It’s important to put them to the test and here are my best selections. 1. DSC Cricket Abdominal Guard It seems odd to say an abdominal guard is attractive but this is a stunning design that makes …
5 Best Cricket Protective Equipment of 2026: Tested and Reviewed Read More »
This is another important skill to learn: Running 22 yards might sound easy but you need to know how to judge a run and to get yourself prepared for a second, or even a third. How to Decide Whether to Attempt a Run or Not At times this will be obvious: The ball may be …
Running Between the Wickets: Basics for Beginners Read More »
The saying states that catches win matches and that’s why it’s important to take a few moments to read through my guide on the art of catching. How to Catch the Ball: The Basics of Cricket Fielding Note that there are different types of catches in cricket and these will generally vary, depending on where …
How to Catch a Cricket Ball – Fielding for Beginners Read More »
In this section I’m going to look in depth at the subject of penalty runs and the laws covering an issue that all cricketers will want to avoid. What are Penalty Runs? Penalty runs are awarded to opposing teams when a player or group of players infringes one of cricket’s relevant laws. Depending on who …
As a beginner, you need to start with the basics and here are 8 of the most important cricket shots that you will need. How to Play Cricket Shots The basics are all about stance, keeping your head still and watching the ball as you start to learn these shots. 1. Straight Drive This is …
Learn 8 Basic Cricket Shots: How to Play as a Beginner Read More »
Power hitting in cricket is developing at a great speed. It’s exciting to watch but the pace of the game means that players and officials need to be more aware of their protection. Umpires are also at risk and they are starting to take action. What is the Cricket Umpire Shield? The umpire shield can …
This can be a controversial issue but it’s a very important one for bowlers so we should cover it here. Chucking, or throwing, during a delivery has been known to end careers but what does it involve? What is Chucking in Cricket? Chucking the cricket ball is effectively a throw. The arm should be straight …
What is Chucking in Cricket? All the Rules on Illegal Deliveries Read More »
I learnt a lot of cricket terms by watching games on the television. One of the more common phrases relates to line and length. It’s specifically about the bowlers but what does it mean? What is Line and Length in Cricket? The phrase line and length describes where the bowler is delivering the ball. The …
Line and Length in Cricket – What is It and How to Use it as a Bowler Read More »
In this guide I’m going to talk about guards and protective clothing. Forget about pads and helmets, this is more specific with abdomen protectors and chest guards under the spotlight. What Protective Gears are used in Cricket? A number of protective items are used by cricket players. These will include helmets, pads or leg guards, …
How to Wear Cricket Guards – Cricket Protective Gears Read More »
Many sports have a perfect scoring scenario. In darts it’s the nine-dart finish while snooker has its maximum 147 break. A perfect phenomenon in cricket would be the six ball, six wicket but has it ever been done? What is a Six Ball Six Wicket? This occurs when six wickets are taken in one over. …
Six Ball Six Wicket: Are There Any Perfect Overs in Cricket? Read More »
A cricket ball is hard and it can hurt. Even the top professional players can suffer injuries at times. However, those cases are very rare and, if fear of injury is holding you back, here are some tips on how to overcome it. How to Overcome Fear of Getting Hit in Six Steps Fear is …
How to Overcome Fear of the Cricket Ball in 6 Easy Steps? Read More »
One of the more complex laws in relation to cricket refers to the danger area. It’s also referred to as the protected area and, sometimes, the rough. It’s not dangerous in a physical sense but it could have severe issues for bowlers, batsmen and fielders if they fall foul of the regulations. What is the …
What is Danger Area in Cricket – Also Known as ‘The Rough’? Read More »
Bat stickers are already in place when you purchase your most important piece of equipment but did you know that there is a way of changing those stickers to make your bat unique? How to Make Cricket Bat Stickers on Your Own? If you want to personalize your bat, you can create your stickers in …
Cricket Bat Stickers 101 – Everything to Know About Bat Stickers Read More »
Hitting a six is one of the most exciting things that can happen in cricket. The thrill of seeing the ball clear the boundary rope provides a huge thrill for both the batsman and the spectators. Power is a necessary factor to have but hitting maximums also requires great skill so, in this guide I’ll …
This is a basic guide to beginners, young and old. We all had to start somewhere and this round up is an entry point to playing your shots as a batsman. How to Bat in Cricket: The Basics of Cricket Batting Step 1: How to Hold the Cricket Bat When you’re first learning how to …
How to Bat and Play Your Shots – Learn Cricket Batting in 8 Steps Read More »
History was made in July 2021 as a new cricket format was launched. The Hundred is the newest form of the game and the first to be introduced since T20 in 2003. It’s largely been met with a positive response from fans but how easy is it to follow? The 100 Ball Cricket Format: Rules …
The Hundred: Rules and Explanation of the 100 Ball Cricket Read More »
This is a brief but comprehensive guide about the approach to playing cricket as a left handed batsman. In the round up I’ll discuss equipment, stance and any potential advantages and disadvantages to being left handed. If you’re just starting out in cricket and you are a natural left-hander, you’re in very good company. At …
Everyone has to bat in cricket but not all players will get to bowl. However, all youngsters learning the game should be fully conversant with the art. In this guide I’ll talk you through some basic coaching advice on how to bowl and we’ll also take a look at some common techniques. The Basics of …
How to Bowl in Cricket – Tips & Lessons for Beginners Read More »
A wide in cricket is an illegal delivery, any bowler should avoid. In this guide I’ll explain what a wide is, together with the laws that are associated with it. What is a Wide Ball in Cricket? A wide is an illegal delivery that is out of a batsman’s reach. It is either too wide …
As a batsman, your guard is an important thing to consider. This is the point on the wicket where you stand, in front of the stumps. There are a number of choices to take and, while it may seem like there are small margins involved, they can make the difference between being dismissed and staying …
Taking Guard in Cricket – Which Batting Guard to Choose Read More »
Test cricket remains the pinnacle of the game for most spectators. I’d agree with that theory and, I prefer to get immersed in a game over five days. The test arena also provides the biggest challenge for batsmen. Those who score highly in test cricket are considered to be the best in the sport. Who …
Most Runs in Test Cricket – 1985 – 2023 Interactive Chart and Complete List Read More »
I’ve guided readers on how to choose a cricket bat and there’s also a section on the game’s most popular brands. In this guide, I’ve gone a stage further and tested out some specific models. The result is a list of what I believe to be the best 10 cricket bats this year. There will …
10 Best Cricket Bats of 2026 – For All Styles from Power Hitters to Touch Players Read More »
Why do bowlers and their fielders shine a cricket ball? In this guide, I’ll look a bit closer at the dynamics and why it is important to maintain that shine. Also under the spotlight are the ways in which you can and can’t treat the ball while on the field of play. How to Shine …
The Best Way to Shine a Cricket Ball – and How Does It Help Swing Bowling Read More »
It’s important to be comfortable in your cricket shoes in order to be at your best on the field and keeping your shoes in optimum condition can also prevent serious injury. I’ve already produced a guide on how to choose cricket shoes and, in this round up, I’ll take a look at how you can …
Cricket Shoes Maintenance Guide – How to Take Care of Your Cricket Shoes? Read More »
I always advise taking time and care when choosing any piece of cricketing equipment. Cricket shoes should last across more than one season so it’s essential to find a brand of shoes which you trust. Best Cricket Shoe Brands of Find below some of the best brands for cricket shoes, along with a couple of …
Best Cricket Shoes Brands for Batting, Bowling and Fielding Shoes Read More »
I’ve already worked through a guide to choosing a cricket bat and there’s also a piece on whether English or Kashmir willow is the best. One thing that’s left to look at is a list of the biggest and best bat manufacturers out there. This is a worldwide list covering India, Australia, England and others …
Top 12 Cricket Bat Brands Worldwide: Indian, Australian and English Manufacturers Read More »
Firstly, let’s start with defining what is a six in cricket: A six is also referred to as a ‘maximum’ as this is the most runs that can be scored in cricket from a single hit. There may be anomalies, such as instances where fielders allow for ‘overthrows’ but these are exceptionally rare. The Longest …
The Longest and Highest Sixes In Cricket – The Complete List Read More »
These are the bat brands that I’m most familiar with. Readers should also know them very well as they are used by some of the top international players around the world. This is a list of the best cricket bat manufacturers based in the UK. Gunn & Moore Personally, I’ve used Gunn and Moore bats …
Getting a batting order right is one of the most important parts of a cricketing strategy. I captained my club side on a few occasions and often found this to be the toughest part of my day. Here’s a guide on how to assess the eleven players taking part in the match and how to …
Batting Order in Cricket: How is a Batting Line Up Set Up? Read More »
Novice cricketers, but even seniors, often use other balls than regular cricket balls for training purposes. There are dozens of alternatives around to keep your precious Kookaburra from being damaged, but we have listed the best five for your cricket practice. 5 Types of Practice Cricket Balls At junior level and for seniors’ training, a …
Practice Cricket Balls: Which Ball is Best for Cricket Training? Read More »
In this guide I’m going to be looking at all the different cricket shots that are available to batsmen. I’ll also discuss the strategy and approach to selecting an appropriate shot to the ball that has been delivered. The aim is to help readers understand shot selection and to hopefully make them more prolific run …
All Cricket Shots – Types of Cricket Shots, Batting Technique Explained Read More »
I’ve already walked you through the process of knocking in a cricket bat but there is a series of aftercare procedures that everyone should look at. This is your most expensive and valuable piece of equipment and it deserves to be looked after properly. Cricket bat care is essential! Cricket Bat Care and Maintenance Here …
I’ve been lucky enough to watch cricket in four different countries so far – England, New Zealand Barbados and the Antigua. Obviously there is more to see and that list needs to be added to in the future. During that time, I’ve also seen some wonderful stadiums: Cricket grounds fascinate me and, in this article, …
Largest Cricket Stadiums in the World by Boundary and Capacity (2026) Read More »
In this guide I’m going to look at the various component parts that make up a cricket bat. Each has their own use in the overall construction and I’ll explain the function of them all as you read through. At the end of the round up, you’ll understand why each piece is vital and what …
Understanding Cricket Bat Parts: A Beginner’s Guide Read More »
Over a long period of playing cricket, I’ve only ever used bats made from English willow. Recently, I’d been made aware of a preference among some players for Kashmir willow. The Kashmir willow vs English willow debate is about the question: is there a real alternative to English willow? So, I thought it was important …
Kashmir Willow vs English Willow: Types of Cricket Bats Read More »
When anyone purchases a new cricket bat, there is a desire to get out onto the field and use it as soon as possible. It is, however, important to understand that knocking in a bat ensures that the bat is fully prepared before it connects with the ball in order to avoid damage. Your bat …
How Knocking-In Your Cricket Bat Makes You a Better Batsman Read More »
Official limited overs cricket matches were introduced in England in the 1960s. The international game followed suit in 1971 and the various formats are arguably the most popular within the sport. The Difference between Test and Limited Overs Cricket So what are the main differences between test cricket and limited overs cricket? Test cricket follows …
Limited Overs Cricket: Introduction and Rules for One Day Cricket Read More »
It’s important to understand the difference between off side and leg side in cricket, and where are these two sections during the match for a number of reasons. They are particularly crucial in terms of field positioning and the laws of the game. What is Off Side and Leg Side in Cricket? A cricket field …
Explained: The Difference between Off Side and Leg Side in Cricket Read More »
Before any game of cricket is played, the fielding side are given a brand new ball. Over the course of the match, the condition of that ball will deteriorate and, eventually, it would need to be replaced. Additional new balls are, therefore, part of the sport. In limited overs cricket matches, bowlers are not set …
When is a New Ball in Cricket? Cricket for Beginners Read More »
Different types of cricket balls can behave differently depending on the manufacturer and they now come in different colours depending on the format of the match in question. There is, therefore, far more to consider when it comes to the humble cricket ball. Let’s take a look at balls with regards to one day and …
Types of Cricket Balls: The Difference Between Colours and Brands Read More »
A ‘duck’ is an unwanted thing for any cricketer. Whether they are an experienced, capable batsman or a tailender, it’s something to avoid. Scoring a duck in cricket simply means that the batter hasn’t scored any runs in their innings before being dismissed. Over the years, the game has evolved to include terms for a …
What is a Duck in Cricket? Types of Ducks – from Golden Duck to Platinum Read More »
If a team is unhappy with a decision made by the on field umpires, they have the option for the third umpire to take a look at the standing umpire’s call. This is often referred to as DRS in cricket: By using available technology, that TV umpire can establish whether that original decision should be …
What is DRS in Cricket? Explanation for Beginners Read More »
A century is one of the most important statistics in cricket. In the following article, I discuss the meaning of the term and its significance in a batsman’s career. Also keep on reading, if you are interested in our up-to-date interactive charts about players with the most centuries. Centuries may not win games of cricket …
What is a Century in Cricket? – Records and the Most Centuries Read More »
Cricket is a global sport, now more than ever. This british sport is now played in more parts of the world than ever before and some might find it odd to ommit a popular sport like cricket from the Olympics. But was cricket ever included in the Olympics? And why is it missing now? Let’s …
Is Cricket an Olympic Sport? – Cricket at the Summer Games Read More »
With cricket bats costing up to several hundred pounds for top of the range products, choosing the right one is essential. Along with the question of budget, there are other elements to consider including the weight and the overall length. It’s a very personal decision and it’s important for the buyer to have as much …
Cricket Bat Size Guide: How to Choose a Cricket Bat Read More »
In the sport of cricket, those who are responsible for upholding the laws on the field of play are the umpires. There are three of them directly involved in the match while another is held in reserve. In addition, there is a referee who has an entirely different job to undertake and most of their …
Powerplay in cricket is a significant factor in deciding the match result, at least in limited overs cricket. This is a period in the match where the fielding team is put under certain restrictions. A secondary Powerplay is traditionally taken by the batting side but it can, in certain circumstances, be taken by the fielding …
It’s not unusual for a limited overs cricket match if it ends in a tie. In the modern day, the game demands a more positive result and that’s why a super over has been introduced. Fans want to see a winner and that’s exactly what the Super Over looks to determine. What is a Super …
In order that the bowler doesn’t gain an unfair advantage, there are certain safeguards in place for the batsman. A no ball will be called and signalled if, in the umpire’s opinion, an illegal delivery has been sent down. There are a number of ways in which a delivery can be called illegal and be …
What is a No Ball in Cricket? – All 16 Types of No Ball Read More »
