The Teesra

Author: Andrew Beaven

  • The leg-side game — making the batsman think.

    Nice variation on the leg-side game this morning, thanks to Ollie Rae.

    Batsman set up close to net on off-side, leg-side with targets at mid-on and square leg; random feed — short-of-a-length (for the pull stroke), bobble-feed on leg stump (on-drive).

    Batters aware of leg-side options, but not able to set-up for pull or drive in advance of delivery.

    • Outcomes:  much improved striking by all members of the group.  They were able to predict the stroke, but had to retain their stance until the ball was delivered.
    • Additional learning: be aware of the gaps in the field, and target them when the opportunity arises.

  • Bowling — back to base

    Had a fascinating evening last week, with Steffan Jones talking about the Governing Dynamics of Fast Bowling.

    Anyone who follows Steffan on twitter, instagram or LinkedIn will know that he is dedicated to developing fast bowlers, and to developing the knowledge needed for coaches to develop fast bowlers.

    It was an absorbing session — so much so, that we only got 15 minutes at the end to play with the wide array of “toys” that Stef had brought along to demonstrate some of the techniques he is using in his own coaching!

    Key take-home for me on the night was the absolute necessity of making practice specific to the activity (bowling) and to the performer (bowler).

    But for all the inspiration from Steffan’s presentation, it was a couple of almost off-hand comments that might have the greatest impact on my day-to-day coaching practice.

    • The bowler’s back foot must be pointing forwards when the ball is released.
    • Stef has beginners bowl from the “base” position with both their feet already aligned to the target.

    Could it be that we have been teaching the basics of bowling incorrectly?

    (more…)

  • The Self-Aware Coach — online learning from Deakin University via FutureLearn.com

    As a coach, I often challenge the players I work with to analyse their own game; only very rarely have I turned the mirror back onto my own coaching behaviours.

    So Deakin University’s ‘Self-Aware Coach’ online course, led by Paddy Upton and Dr Sharon Pittaway and hosted by FutureLearn, was an opportunity not to be missed.

    The course content was exceptional, the educators informed, candid and engaged, and so many of my fellow students contributed so much via their considered Comments.

    (more…)