Even though the first cricket games in history took place in the 18^th century, it wasn’t until the 19^th century that cricket helmets were introduced as important safety measures cricketers would use to protect themselves while playing.

The first person to wear a cricket helmet during a game was England cricketer Patsy Hendren. Helmet use and popularity grew exponentially in the 1970’s when popular players including Tony Greig, Sunil Gavaskar and Dennis Amiss began to wear them.

Thanks to modern technology, what began as quite a simplistic design back in the 19^th century has progressed to cutting-edge safety equipment designed specifically for the game of cricket. Nowadays, cricket helmets have the potential to limit your chances of injury or impact. In fact, some helmets have been proven to almost entirely eliminate these risks altogether.

But what exactly is a modern, safe cricket helmet made of? We’ve broken down the five major components of the modern cricket helmet – including its shell, grill, padding, chin strap and neck guard. Read on for more information about what each component is able to provide a helmet’s wearer.

1. The shell

The helmet’s shell is its most essential component. It is essentially the ‘dome’ of the helmet, and contains different raw materials, including fibreglass and carbon steel. The outer shell of the helmet provides a large surface area to reduce impact if hit, and conversely, the inner shell helps to soak up any shock that hits the outer part.

2. The grill

The grill is a net-like section that is attached to the shell, designed to help protect the face from injury. It’s made from materials such as titanium and polycarbonate, and is specially designed so it won’t affect ventilation and visibility – but will guarantee maximum safety and protection.

3. The padding

The padding is a soft cushion material attached to the helmet’s inner part. It’s designed to help absorb shock, and at the same time, ensure the helmet can grip the cricketer’s head better. Much like the helmet itself, the padding can be easily adjusted to fit different head sizes.

4. Chin strap

As its name suggests, the chin strap is used to attach the helmet to the head snugly and firmly. It is also used to help protect the cricketer’s chin.

5. Neck guard

Attached to the back of the cricket helmet, the neck guard is a component intended to protect cricketers’ necks. It was added to most helmets in recent years, after the tragic death of Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes after he was struck in the neck by a cricket ball.

Keep protected with safety equipment from Meulemans Cricket Centre

Meulemans Cricket Centre have you covered with all the gear and equipment (including modern, state-of-the-art cricket helmets) you’ll need to keep safe the next time you hit the field. Browse their full range online, or head to their South Perth Store or Joondalup Megastore for further assistance, or to view products instore.

If you’re a fan of the game, donning your team’s kit is the best way to show your support. Through the years the Australian ODI team have had some truly excellent uniforms to match some truly spectacular performances. Below, we take a journey back in time to revisit some of the biggest moments from the Australian cricket team and the kits they were wearing at the time. These kits have been immortalised on the world stage because of the legends that wore them and to this day cricket fans across the world know what green and gold means on the cricket field - bring your A game!

The ’90s saw the Australian team rock some of the most classic ODI kits to date with the ‘95-96 kit being one of the standouts. Having a half green and half yellow design with four striking lines, it sports one of the biggest Southern Cross’ of all ODI uniforms to date. This kit has been immortalised because it was worn by Michael Bevan when he famously smashed a four to win the game against the West Indies on the last ball of his career at the SCG in 1996.

The 1999 World Cup was one of the biggest moments in Australian cricketing history with Australia beating Pakistan by eight wickets, paving the way for three straight World Cup wins. To match this legendary moment, the Australian team wore an equally as legendary kit with bright yellow and bold green. They also continued to implore the iconic Southern Cross, a symbol all Aussies know and love because it stands for freedom and loyalty.

Continuing their jaw-dropping winning streak on the world stage, the 2003 Australian team wore one of their most iconic kits to date. This year they hit the right balance between bold green and Australian gold. Again the Southern Cross was a key feature of the kit that was paired with green streaks making the stars look as if they were flying - much like the balls that same off Ricky Ponting’s bat throughout the tournament. Cricket fans will remember him smashing the Indian side to bring the cup home for the Aussies, hitting 140 not out which earned him player of the match.

Three was the magic number for the Australian team in 2007, landing their third straight World Cup win, this time against Sri Lanka which made it their fourth World Cup win all up. The hero of the game was again, the legend himself, Ricky Ponting, who was draped in a mostly-gold kit with a dapper set of green stripes across the centre reading, AUSTRALIA, in the middle. Fans who scored this kit wear it with pride in remembrance of our nation's elite cricketing potential.

The 2015 World Cup was another highlight for the Australian side. Beating out all teams on our home turf to win the tournament never felt so good, or looked so good. The return of the cup to its rightful home also saw the return of the Southern Cross on the jersey, this time coloured in green and swimming in a sea of gold. Lucky fans who snapped up this kit can forever relive the moment the Aussies snatched the cup away from the Kiwi’s - what a game!

Score Your Cricket Australia Merchandise 

Show your support for the Aussies and relive their proudest moments on the world stage with your very own replica Cricket Australia merchandise available at Meulemans today!

Grove Cricket was founded in 2012 and has quickly earnt a reputation for producing exceptional equipment at affordable prices. Meulemans jumped at the opportunity to stock Grove’s equipment because their gear is designed by cricketers that love the game, and is made for cricketers that appreciate high quality and innovative designs.  

Grove’s wide selection of cricket bats are handcrafted in Australia from hand-selected grade one English Willow. One of their top models is the Royale Makers Choice which has been expertly designed to deliver optimal performance at the crease. Sporting a sharp mid-profile, the Royale maintains power through the whole blade. The toe is finished square and the face very slightly convexed with very minimal concaving in the back. Its 18 piece handles are uniquely crafted from the highest quality cane providing subtle flex, ensuring maximum force with unrivalled feel. All Grove bats come with a slightly oval handle and their thickness is marginally thinner than average. This is proven to increase performance and grip. If you want an explosion in your hands, go with Grove. 

Aside from their bats, Grove offers some of the best protective cricket gear available. If you’re looking for a new pair of gloves that are sure to last, then their Exclusive batting gloves are the right choice for you. The Exclusive’s ultra-lightweight, high-density foam promises international level protection. With super flex 37 splits for increased flexibility, its unique design is aimed to hug the shape of your hand and deliver extra comfort. To top it all off, the Exclusive has a premium sheep leather palm, adding grip to make sure you’re in full control of the bat. Meulemans also stocks inners from Grove. Their fingerless batting inners come with a cotton palm and a lycra backing to ensure you can keep smashing sixes for as long as you like.

To match your gloves, be sure to check out Grove’s range of batting pads. A best seller is the Makers Choice batting pads. Their rounded, lightweight, multi-sectioned high-density foam has strengthening cane rods for maximum shin and thigh protection. Boasting a reputation for one of the most comfortable pads on the market, it has a gel pocket in the knee with a Fibretec bolster insert combined with the Grove tri-folding knee protection system. The Makers Choice should be your top pick if you want protection and a tight fit for when you’re on the run. For those who are fed up with being corked in the leg by stray bowls, the grove exclusive thigh pad should also be on the top of your list. 

Wicket keepers will be happy to know that Grove has much of their key protective gear sorted. The Makers Choice wicket-keeping gloves from Grove are as reliable as they come. Their kangaroo leather covering and flexible finger inserts will ensure you can stop anything and will drop nothing. For increased protection, Grove’s Exclusive keeping pads are a sure-fire safe bet. Rounded foam over the knee provides comfortability and protection while their slim, tight fit means that you can strap them on and trust that they will stay firm. 

Once Grove has sorted you with new gear, you’re going to need a place to stash it all that also adequately protects it. For this, Grove has you covered with their range of cricket bags. A favourite is their Supreme wheel bag that is spacious enough to keep your bat, protective gear, balls and shoes protected, with some extra room for whatever you need. 

Those who have chosen to go with Grove have never gone back, shop Meulemans for all Grove’s products today!

Superior gear makes for a superior player, it’s as simple as that. When choosing your next cricket gear, Kookaburra should be one of your top considerations. Kookaburra is a master of their craft and produces some of the highest quality cricket gear in the world. 

What makes Kookaburra’s gear stand out from the rest is their unparalleled commitment to giving cricketers exactly what they need. This 100% Australian family-owned and operated global business have established themselves as the No.1 Australian sports brand worldwide. Through being an Australian brand, they understand what Australian cricket need from their gear more than most.

One of their most popular bats, The Ghost Pro, is just one of many Kookaburra bats that are used by international and Australian cricket players. What makes this Kookaburra bat so popular is its superior look and feel. It sports a full players shape with a mid-profile to suit all conditions and is made from their lightest Willow. The cherry-on-top is the bat’s minimalist styling – a perfect choice for the classic player who wants to keep the bowler guessing.

The Kookaburra brand has long been associated with some of the best players to grace an international field including Adam Gilchrist, Dean Jones, Gordan Greenidge, Ian Healy, Jack Russell, Justin Lange, Kumar Sangakkara, Ray Jennings, Ricky Ponting, Rodney Marsh and Mike Hussey. 

Meulemans also stocks a range of Kookaburra Junior bats. Give your youngster the best possible chance at being the most skilled batter they can be by starting them off with something sturdy and reliable. 

Meulemans’ offers an array of Kookaburra bats that cater to many different styles and preferences. Browse our Kookaburra bats to find that one that suits you best!

Asides from world-class bats, Kookaburra also specialises in protective gear. They’ve put years of research into developing high-quality, light-weight protective gear that has been tailored to our unique Australian climate. Be sure to include Kookaburra batting gloves, pads, bodyguards and inners when you visit Meulemans to make sure your protective gear gives you that extra edge – every bit counts!

For the wicket-keepers out there, Kookaburra also has you covered. They know that not every wicket-keeper will need the same glove, that’s why they have endeavoured to design a range that ensures a variety of hands are comfortable and protected while still maintaining exceptionally gripping ability. 

To complete your Kookaburra cricket set, you will need a bag that will not only keep your gear safe but will provide you with the right amount of storage. Meulemans offers a wide array of bags that will suit all types of cricketers needs. A player with safe and secure gear is a player who plays at their peak.

Since 1890, Kookaburra has played a central role in the game of cricket. From local junior games to the international stage, Kookaburra has proved time and time again why it’s often a cricketer’s first pick. When choosing your next cricket set from Meulemans, Kookaburra should be at the top of your list!

If you’re a keen cricketer, you’ll know only too well how easy it is to be pelted with the ball and spend a week with bruises after getting hit in the legs multiple times. The more time you spend injured, the less you can play the sport you love. We’re guessing that’s why you’re here reading about how to pick the right batting pads for yourself.

Cricket pads cover your legs when you’re batting so you can escape most of the potential abuse inflicted by the hard, unforgiving cricket ball. Once you begin your research into any cricket equipment like batting pads, you’ll swiftly realize that by playing this sport, a sizeable amount of your budget will go toward paying for cricket gear, especially that crucial protective equipment.

It’s imperative you don’t just walk into your nearest cricket shop and pick up any random set of cricket batting pads, though. You need to choose the batting pads that work best for you, rather than expecting a one-size-fits-all solution. You can get pads suited for right-handers or southpaws as well as ambidextrous sets. There are sizes to accommodate large adults all the way down to small children.

You need to be sure that the batting pads are properly sized so they don’t fall off or slip down when you need them most. You also want to make certain they allow for a full range of movement and that they are comfortable and durable in equal measure

Batting pads are made of different materials and have different design aspects, but the main point of all cricket batting pads to protect you from injuries caused by that lethal leather ball.  Before we walk you through the four steps to picking the right batting pads, we’ll give you some quick background.

Material

Traditional cricket batting pads are made of leather. These pads are not very durable, even when cared for properly, and they are also incredibly expensive.

The alternatives most commonly used in today’s cricket batting pads are polyurethane (PU) and PVC. These materials make batting pads that are lightweight without compromising durability and they deliver the protection you need so that rock-hard ball doesn’t leave you battered and bruised. These materials are also easy to clean and care for.

The interior of modern cricket batting pads is made from cotton and cane. Some models provide extra protection in the form of carbon or Kevlar inserts, although this is probably overkill unless you’re a very serious player. The most common styles of pads have plenty of foam padding in them as well. This padding adds another layer of protection while also providing ample comfort.

Design

While every manufacturer of cricket batting pads has a proprietary, there are still many similarities among the brands. There are no restrictions on the design of the batting pads, and modern materials have made certain design aspects obsolete. For example, the knee roll on the batting pad isn’t necessary anymore due to the use of modern materials.

However, since umpires have always used the knee roll to help them judge how high the bounce of the cricket ball is, they found this tough task when knee rolls were no longer used on batting pads. For this reason, many companies have worked a faux knee roll into the design of their modern batting pads so everyone’s happy.

Caring For Your Batting Pads

Since cricket gear is costly, it’s only sensible that you try to properly care for it so that it lasts as long as possible. Wipe your pads clean after each game or net session so they last longer, and that’s about the extent of maintenance.

The moisture from your skin and sweat can shorten the lifespan of your batting pads. Make sure you allow them to dry out after batting, but never put them in direct sunlight. If you leave your pads in the sun, the padding will dry out and harden, ruining them completely and forcing you to spend yet more money.

Now, here are those promised four steps to picking the right batting pads the easy way!

1. Set a Budget

As previously stated, cricket gear can make quite a dent in your budget if you’re not careful. Before you set out to purchase any new equipment, you need to determine what your budget is then stick to it. Not only will you prevent overspending, you’ll also whittle down your options without needing to lift a finger.

As with nearly everything, the more money you can spend on a product, the better the quality is likely to be. If you have a more fluid budget, look at upscale pads. These will have more comfortable foam and other padding as well as specialty design features like washable, removable pad inserts. You can also expect pricier pads to be made from superior materials.

This isn’t to say that all cheaper cricket batting pads are uncomfortable or unfit for purpose. These pads will be just as useful as their more expensive counterparts; they just won’t have as many features, and they’ll lack that fine detailing that the best pads have. Regardless of your budget, you can find cricket batting pads that protect you effectively while reducing the number of bruises from the cricket ball.

2. Sizing – How and Why To Pick the Proper Size

Most manufacturers have a wide range of sizes for cricket batting pads. There are pads to suit everyone from the largest adult to the smallest child. You shouldn’t just buy a randomly sized set of cricket batting pads, though. Fit is paramount.

While exact sizing varies to some extent from brand to brand, overall they are similar. If you can’t get to a local cricket supplier to try on batting pads, you can measure yourself or your child at home in order to get the best fit possible.

When measuring up for your cricket batting pads, make sure you run from the middle of the knee to the top of your instep. Here are most common measurements and their corresponding sizes:

• 30cm-32cm – Boy’s Small
• 32cm-35cm – Boy’s
• 36cm-38cm – Youth’s
• 39cm-41cm – Men’s Small
• 41cm-43cm – Men’s
• 44cm-48cm – Men’s Large

When you pick up batting pads and try them on, you’ll be able to tell immediately if they fit properly. If the knee roll comes over your knee and the pad is resting on top of your foot, it’s all good. If this is not the case, you need a different size.

3. Choose the Right Brand

The huge range of brands available when it comes to cricket batting pads can complicate your buying decision. Why not express some national pride and buy from a manufacturer of Australian batting pads? Some of the more commonly known cricket batting pad companies include the following.

• Gray-Nicolls is a brand set apart from the others. They have a wide variety of available products which they stand behind completely with rock-solid warranties. They have a classic style and are pretty much unbeatable when it comes to the best batting pads
• Gunn & Moore has been in the batting pad business for over a century, and they are globally renowned for their quality and adaptability. They are constantly evolving and conforming to new standards to help make cricket better than ever.

• Kookaburra is a brand with a real focus on producing quality pads. They provide exceptional protection while still offering you all the comfort you need for a long batting session. Whatever equipment you invest in from Kookaburra, you won’t be disappointed.

Other popular brands of cricket batting pads include Grove, MRF, New Balance, Puma, Slazenger, Spartan, and Ton.

4. Choose the Right Cricket Supplier

There are dozens of cricket suppliers all over the continent. Again, this choice can prove overwhelming. When you’re a busy cricketer, you won’t have the time or energy to drive all over, hunting down the latest and greatest cricket equipment. For this reason, you want a cricket supplier that stocks gear from all the best companies in one convenient spot.

You can find a local supplier and go into the brick-and-mortar store on occasion to find what you’re looking for, and this isn’t such a bad idea. You’ll be able to try things on or get a general feel for them. If you’re too busy to get into a supplier and prefer shopping online, the same rules apply. Look for a supplier with a wide selection of gear and a generous return policy.

You can always pop into a store to try things out; you don’t need to commit to purchase. To get the best of both worlds, though, look no further than Meulemans Cricket Centre for all your cricket needs. You can shop online or come see us in store, and we’ll be delighted to help you find all your cricket gear.

Conclusion

If you play cricket on a regular basis and you want to do so safely, there’s simply no way around investing in the best protective gear. Armed with the information in this guide, you should now be able to get the cricket batting pads you need without too much time or trouble.

If you are a cricket fanatic, you will already know how tough it can be to get back into shape after a few weeks lay off, as those essential muscles enjoy an unfamiliar period of inactivity. The rest and relaxation time is now behind us, and for those who wish to get going with a soft exercise routine to prepare for the gruelling season ahead, here are a few tips on how best to get that body back into a level of fluidity.

• Swimming – This is an ideal activity for gently working the entire body, and in the heat of the summer, there’s no better way to cool off than a few lengths of the pool. Start with every other day, and then raise the bar to daily, gradually increasing the swimming distance. This is also a very good way to warm up the muscles prior to specific back and hip exercises that develop a batsman’s craft.
• Morning Warm Up –Those muscle groups have been having an easy time and by going through a basic warm up routine when you get out of bed in the morning, you are reducing the risk of a torn or pulled muscle. Stretches and twists are ideal, to get your joints moving, and after a few days, you can increase the intensity a little.
• Jogging – This is a fine way to prepare the body for another bout of serious activity, and it is something that can be done at any time and place. Some people run round the block before dinner, while others prefer to early morning circuit, prior to getting ready for work. Warming up is essential, even for a short run, and you might also want to warm down, and make sure you stay hydrated.
• Sit Ups – Yes they hurt, but, as the saying goes, “No pain, no gain” and this is likely to be the area that has suffered the most from the lay off. Easy living affects our waistline, and the sit up exercises will prepare you for the weight room, when you can get that six pack back. Start off with a number that is comfortable, and if you can put up with that dull abdomen ache that always accompanies the first few days, then you will be the better for the experience.
• Pilates – This is not strictly reserved for pregnant women and the elderly, and the classes are ideal for gentle muscle stimulation and strengthening joints. Pilates also develops flowing body movement, something essential for a good batsman or bowler. If you live in a city, the chances are there are Pilates classes nearby and a simple online search should put you right.

Cricket is a sport that requires the player to be a good all-rounder, with batting, bowling and fielding all an essential part of the game, and by exercising responsibly after the Christmas break, you will be ready for the next game.

Cricket is a great game for kids, and they can start learning the game from a young age. However, sometimes it can be hard to get them to focus on a full game, and they might want to try some other activities. If you have a cricket bat and balls, then there are endless activities you can try and lots of ways to put a twist on a traditional game of cricket. Here are some fun things to try next time you’ve got to entertain a crowd.

Here are some ideas that’ll improve their games as they have fun.

1. French cricket

A great way to practice batting and catching skills, French cricket is a quick game that also helps with team building. You simply need to visit a cricket store for a suitable-sized bat and ball. The game has one batsman, who stands with the other kids in a circle around them. Using the bat to shield them below the knees, the other players take it in turns to take the batsman ‘out’, either by hitting them below the knee, or catching a ball that they’ve hit. Whoever gets them out, gets to be a batsman in the next round.

2. Catching

A batsman stands with his legs apart, holding the bat in the middle. Your pitcher has to roll the ball between their legs, and this gives the batsman a good way to practice bat control. You can buy a cricket bat online, and this game can be played with as few as two players, making it ideal for small group activities.

3. Backyard cricket

A simple version of the game that’s great for families, perhaps when the parents come to pick up their kids, and much quicker than a full game. Backyard cricket is loosely based on cricket, but has much more relaxed rules, making it fun for practice. You just need two stumps, about 25 feet apart, and basic cricket gear such as a bat and ball. It’s even possible to play without formal teams, just take it in turns to bat and enjoy it.

Some people who want to play cricket can find it inaccessible at first due to the rules being difficult to learn. Backyard cricket allows people to just get into the game and have some fun. It’s great for encouraging kids to try cricket, and you can slowly introduce more and more rules as they get older.

4. Driving game

The driving game is a simple way to practice all sorts of skills.

• Nominate a batsman
• Four fielders stand around the batsman in a semi-circle
• The pitcher throws the ball to the batsman four times
• The aim is for the batsman to hit the ball to each one of the fielders

If you are starting a cricket team and think some of the kids need help with their skills, then this is an easy way to do so. You can find cricket bats in Australia that are suitable for kids, and you can always use practice balls before switching to leather.

5. Six-a-side cricket

Six-a-side cricket is often the easiest form for kids to play, as games can be completed in less than an hour. With one inning and five overs, it’s easier to score a run, which also gives children a sense of accomplishment.

6. Non-stop cricket

Also known as continuous cricket, this is a fun way for kids to practice their skills. Each team gets a set amount of time for batting, and the batsman runs whether the ball is hit or not. As soon as the batsman is caught out, the next one quickly takes their place, giving it a much faster pace. You can buy cricket bats online that are made in junior sizes, which makes it easier to play these quicker games. They also tend to be a bit lighter, which is safer when playing a fast game.

7. Tug o’war

Split the kids into two teams, with a minimum of three players, and line them up at opposite sides of the playing field. In the middle, you place an object such as a soccer ball, and the aim is for players to push the ball to the other team using accurate throws. Because balls are being thrown around, you might want to find a cricket store online to stock up on safety gear, or choose to use soft balls until the kids’ aims have improved.

8. Caterpillar catch

A classic game used by coaches, caterpillar catch can either be done in a group of six or more or as teams. A set of cones are put out, and players line up behind them, facing their partner, and the first player has one to five balls. They throw one to the player opposite, then sprint along the line, catching the ball as it moves crossways down the line. Because each player repeats this motion, the group looks like a caterpillar moving down the line, and it’s a great way to teach proper catching positions. It’s also a good game for warming up, as it gets kids moving and focused.

9. Cricket rounders

A fun hybrid of cricket and rounders when you want to keep things light, kids love a game of cricket rounders. Basically, you set up a rounders pitch, but use a Kookaburra cricket bat or similar instead of a rounders bat. You can also use a lighter ball if preferred. If you don’t have time for a cricket match, then a game of cricket rounders gets kids active and helps them practice all their skills.

It’s easy to get cricket bats and other accessories online. Simply visit meulemans.com.au for quick delivery across Australia, and a range of cricket gear to suit all players. You’ll find bats in junior sizes, so even younger kids can get in on the action, and by teaching them some of the fun games above, they’ll soon develop an appreciation for cricket.

The days when the Australian cricket team couldn’t muster 20 pullups between the entire squad are well and truly behind us. Over the past decade or two, cricketers have gone from being among the least-fit athletes on the planet to obvious examples of what a professional athlete should look like and how they should perform on the field. Just look at the pace at which Mitchell Starc bowls or the fielding ability of Glenn Maxwell, an athlete who’s just as adept with both bat and ball, as many cricketers are in these exciting times of non-stop cricket.

Fitness has become so integral to cricket in recent times that every man and woman on the field needs to be in top shape whether they prefer to wield the willow or bowl a mean leg spin. Despite their immense talent, ability and formidable desire to win, there are very few professional cricketers leading Shane Warne or David Boon-like lifestyles, as cricket in its many glorious forms has changed and so too have attitudes among players towards fitness.

The unrelenting nature of professional cricket with the IPL luring the crème de la crème of international players to the subcontinent with its massive pay packets is seen by many as having made peak physical fitness essential. However, it’s also worth noting that the shorter formats of the game, most notably T20 cricket, have made cricket a much faster sport and this has increased the need for all players to be in excellent physical condition so that they can play for club and country throughout the year.

Whether your preference is to wield a Gray Nicolls cricket bat or a red or white Kookaburra ball, the following cricket fitness tips will help to improve your fitness, strength and stamina, minimise the risk of injury and keep you on the field for longer. Whether you’re a seasoned player working towards a professional career or a youngster just starting to get serious about cricket, these cricket fitness tips will help you get more from your game.

Stretching and Warming Up

Without proper stretching techniques to help you warm up, you’re putting yourself at risk of injury and that could cut your cricketing career short. Whether batting, bowling or fielding, you need to prepare both your upper and lower body by stretching. Yoga is great for improving flexibility, and there are a number of stretches that you can do to loosen your muscles for both matches and training, of which the following three are among the most important.

• Elbow-Out Rotator Stretch: This stretch loosens the rotator cuff muscles which you will use heavily when bowling or fielding in the outfield. To perform the stretch, stand up straight with your hand placed squarely behind the middle of your back and your elbow pointing out. Complete the stretch by reaching over and gently pulling your elbow forward with your other hand.
• Standing High-Leg Bent Knee Hamstring Stretch: Hamstrings are easily strained, and a nagging hamstring injury could return time and time again to keep you off the field. Stand up straight and place one foot onto a table or surface of a suitable height. While leaning forward with your chest pressed to your knee, keep your leg bent.
• Lying Knee Roll-Over Stretch: Every athlete needs to take care not to injure their lower back (lumbar), with this stretch the best way to loosen up before hitting the field or the nets. Start the stretch by lying flat on your back with your knees bent and then let your knees fall slowly to one side until they touch the floor. Keep your arms outstretched, rotate your knees and let your back and hips rotate simultaneously.

When watching cricket online or on television, take note of how the players keep limber in the field by stretching throughout the match. This helps to keep injuries at bay, including muscle, tendon and ligament damage, muscle spasms and strains, and it also improves performance throughout the match as they have a greater range of movement.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Whether running between the wickets, running up to deliver a swift leg cutter or chasing down the ball to prevent a boundary in the outfield, cardiovascular fitness is extremely important in cricket. While all cricketers will improve their cardiovascular fitness while playing and training, most professional players also work at improving their cardiovascular fitness off the field. Along with running, which is an essential skill in cricket regardless of where one fields, cardiovascular training can also include the following:

• Exercise Bike - While the exercise bike shouldn’t be the only cardiovascular training you engage in, there are many benefits to including it in your exercise regime. It’s a good way to strengthen your legs (by adjusting the resistance) without placing too much pressure on the knees, plus it’s good for HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training).
• Swimming - Sure, there aren’t many applications for swimming skills on the cricket field, but as it’s an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise and it’s also low-impact, swimming is a great way to improve your cardiovascular capacity without extra running which can result in tired legs and leg injuries, most notably knee and ankle injuries.
• Circuits - Combining weights with cardiovascular exercises, circuits is an effective means of improving cardio and strength, keeping in top shape and improving your on-field stamina. There are so many ways to combine the two and by changing your routine regularly you’ll keep yourself involved and prevent yourself from plateauing.

Good cardiovascular fitness is essential for fast-paced 21st Century cricket. All cricketers, whether young amateurs or seasoned professionals, will find that improving their cardiovascular fitness offers many benefits both on and off the field.

Meulemans is a leading cricket store with an impressive product range that includes the latest Gray Nicolls and Kookaburra cricket bats, gloves, balls, protective equipment, and so much more. We hope that you’ve found this article on cricket fitness interesting and that it helps you to get more out of your time spent playing cricket - the game of life.

The cricket season is almost upon us, with the Australian national cricket team scheduled to go up against Bangladesh on Sunday, 27 August. For fans and professional cricketers, alike, there’s plenty to be excited about in the lead-up to this season. But it’s not just the pros who are getting ready for this season’s matches. There are countless more leisure and amateur players who are also in training.

Meulemans has been Australia’s favourite cricket store since our founding in 1963. We’re based in Western Australia, but we supply cricket bats to players across the country. Needless to say, we’re just as excited about this upcoming cricket season as you. With that in mind, we thought we’d share a few indispensable cricket training tips for the pre-season.

It’s Time to Change Up Your Cricket Batting Game

Now that the official season is almost here, odds are good that you’re heading outdoors for your training. This is an important transition, but it also presents a few challenges. Indoor net practice is good for keeping you sharp and in shape, but it also comes up lacking in some ways. In fact, indoor practice can create problems that need to be corrected before the season starts.

As former English cricketer Paul Nixon told All Out Cricket, indoor practice develops tendencies to simply smash balls into the nets and to try hitting every ball for four. That’s an unrealistic goal to begin with. When you move outdoors, it’s better to let the ball come and only try to drive when it’s close to a half-volley.

Here are a few cricket batting drills Nixon recommends to help you get ready for the season:

• Hit the Deck

  – In this drill, you put some cones just back of a length and have someone else give you feeds. Try hitting the ball to the ground, forcing it to strike the ground before the cones and then bounce over them.

• Feet in Treacle

  – For this drill, you stand in batting position with your bat up, and someone feeds you the cricket balls. Keep your feet planted when you hit the ball. This stance forces you to play it late, which will help you sharpen your game.

• Front Dog

  – This drill is designed to train you to get your head over your front fit when batting. This is necessary when making the transition to outdoors, as grass on the pitch creates more friction than indoor turf. Get someone to feed you balls, and practise going forward to hit it under your nose.

The above batting tips will help you make the transition from indoor practice to outdoor play. But while we’re at it, this is also a good time to look into buying new cricket bats. You’ll find a fantastic selection available through our online store. And now, let’s move on to the rest of our pre-season tips.

Start Your Pre-Season Cricket Training Regimen

There are several other ways to get started training for the new cricket season. Every coach and trainer has their own repertoire, but most will likely encourage you to begin by working on the following:

• Identify Your Goals

  What do you hope to accomplish in the coming season? Rather than setting performance goals (such as trying to score a certain number of goals), try aiming for higher-concept achievements, such as playing more confidently or bowling with more accuracy.

• Implement a Plan to Accomplish Those Goals

  Once you have clearly articulated the goals that you have for the upcoming season, create a plan for how to accomplish them. For example, if you’re hoping to improve your in-game concentration, then you’ll need to schedule drills that foster concentration. If your goal is to boost stamina, then you’ll need to start doing endurance training several days per week.

• Make Your Weekly Net More Match Specific

  You can accomplish this by setting specific scenarios in your net. For example, you could have two different batters square off against an imagined field setting for their respective bowlers. If the batter gets an affirmative call, they should run the number of runs they think is appropriate. This teaches them to be accountable for the shots they select.

• Bowlers Should Properly Mark Their Run-up

  When bowlers are training on indoor nets, this is the right time to establish their bowling rhythm in order to ensure that they’re bowling from the right position. See to this now will go a long way in reducing the number of no-balls bowled during the regular season.

• Get Started with Middle Practice

  Middle practice is when the bowler bowls an over against two batters who are located in the middle. Other players should see to fielding at this time. This gives the batters an opportunity to practice picking up singles whilst running between the wickets. Meanwhile, the other players will get practice handling the field under pressure. Generally, each batting pair goes for four overs.

• Step Up Your Fitness Game
  

  In the preseason, it’s time to get started with some cricket-related fitness drills that will help build your endurance for those long sessions at the crease. Focus on interval training, as this is really going to prepare your body for the challenges ahead. Try running a two, followed by a few seconds’ break – and then repeat this about six times. Take a slightly longer break to recoup, and then repeat the cycle.

• Practise Spot Bowling

  Another good pre-season drill for bowlers, spot bowling involves setting up cones to mark the area where a well-bowled ball should land on the striker’s side. Then bowl several overs to see how many times you can get the ball to land in the demarcated area. This helps to build rhythm and establish consistency.

With the season approaching, this is a great time to browse our cricket store online to buy cricket bats and cricket gear. Have a look at our selection, and don’t hesitate to get in touch with us should you have any questions.