There are two main ways fielding changes the outcome of a cricket match: saving runs for the team and affecting runouts. How a team field significantly impacts the game, so it is worth investing time to improve your fielding skills. 

Let’s look at some tips for improving your fielding skills. There is no substitution for practice, so after reading this article, get out there and play!

Tip 1: Form a long barrier

 Ideally, aim to form a long barrier with your feet to stop the ball in its tracks. Your feet create a significantly larger surface area than if you just bend down, aiming to pick up the ball with your hand when it is rolling at speed.,

Tip 2: Back up your teammates

Ensure you run with other fielders. This way, if they make a mistake or are slower than you to field the ball, you can help them out and save runs for your team.

Tip 3: Practice throwing to hands

Catching is an essential skill, so grab a mate, get out there, and practice throwing to hands – this is different from throwing in their general direction. Focus on and aim for their hands, over and over, until you get it right.

Tip 4: Practice hitting the stumps

For a more challenging effort, practice hitting the stumps. Doing this in training helps improve your natural accuracy. Try from all angles to make it harder. For a real challenge, aim for only one stump.

Tip 5: Stay alert

The most important and the most underrated aspect of fielding is staying alert. Your reaction time can make all the difference, so keep focused.  

General cricket fielding positions

The general cricket fielding positions are slip, gully, point, third man, fine leg, square leg, mid-wicket, mid-on, mid-off, long off, and long on. 

Practice playing each position until you feel confident.

General fielding tips

When the bowler starts their run-up, you must concentrate. If you are the slip, you are getting into a catching stance. Everyone else is walking in with the bowler.  

• If you’re not chasing the ball or backing up a throw to the stumps, move out of the way. 
• If you are not chasing the ball, back up the bowler/keeper at the stumps or move out of the way. 
• “Fine Leg” is just that and not a ‘back stop’ for the Keeper. 
• If you are a slip, stand wide of the Keeper (at least two arm lengths). 
• The bowler and Keeper should never have to chase a ball running on the ground.

Let Meulemans help you reach your fielding goals

Fielding requires patience, skill, and plenty of practice. While you focus on that, let Meulemans Cricket Centre take care of the rest. We have you covered with all the cricket equipment and gear, and clothing you need. Pop into one of our stores to try things out; you don’t need to commit to purchasing. Shop online or see us in-store, and we’ll be delighted to help you find all your cricket clothing in Western Australia.

Browse our full range online, or head to the South Perth Store or Joondalup Megastore to view products in-store.

It’s natural to want to get better at the sport you love. We thought we’d share our top tips on how to improve your batting skills in cricket.

Tip No.1

Keep your eye on the cricket ball. This is the most important and often the first forgotten tip! Never take your eyes off the ball when the bowler enters the crease until the ball hits your bat. Track it every moment of its journey.

Tip No.2

Lean slightly forward when preparing to swing and set your intention. Batting is about the intent to score runs off each ball. Put all your energy and focus into hitting the ball. 

Tip No.3

Increase your fitness. The fitter you are, the better you will play. Consider cross-training and combining weight training and speed work. Every cricketer, average or otherwise, should work on their fitness to ensure they’re match-ready.

Tip No.4

 Set small goals. Try to focus on improving one thing at a time. This will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. Focus on one aspect of your performance, from your grip to your foot position.

Tip No.5

Know how to get off-strike and where your singles and rotation areas are so you can get off-strike easily and effectively. Practice makes perfect, so get practicing in the nets until it feels natural. 

Tip No.6

Know your strengths. Do what works for you, whether you are a front-foot player or a back-foot player.

Tip No.7

Don’t panic. Stay calm and go back to basics if you notice a dip in form. Shake it off and start again. Practice hitting until you are executing it fluently. Remember, the goal is to score runs, not to get caught up in analyzing your batting technique.

Tip No.8

Focus on your form, as small errors can creep in from poor body positioning in the crease.

Check your: 

• Set-Up
• Grip
• Stance
• Bat swing

Tip No. 9

Step back between balls and take a breath. Improving your batting skills is about managing how you react between swings. 

Tip No. 10

Remember, cricket is fun! We want you to enjoy every moment you spend playing this great game, so don’t forget to have fun while in the crease.

Bats, equipment, and cricket gear

One of the quickest ways to improve your batting skills is by ensuring you have the best equipment possible. At Meulemans Cricket Centre, we are proud to offer an extensive range of cricket bats for sale, suitable for everyone from serious players right down to casual players.

Choose Meulemans

Meulemans Cricket Centre have you covered with all the cricket equipment and gear you’ll need for your next match. Browse our full range online, or head to our South Perth Store or Joondalup Megastore for further assistance or to view products in-store.