In this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast, we dive into a deceptively simple yet powerful topic—how to run faster between the wickets. We’re breaking down what really impacts your speed and sharing evidence-backed techniques you can apply immediately to score more runs.

You'll Learn:

• How a small shift in technique—carrying the bat in one hand—can help transfer energy more efficiently and cut down your sprint times.
• How proper sprinting form, used by Olympic runners, can be adapted for better running between the wickets.
• What the research says about different running techniques, and how turning to your strong side with a one-handed grip significantly improves speed.
• How grip strength and physical conditioning—especially in the women's game—can influence your ability to apply these techniques effectively.

Key Takeaways:

• Carrying the bat in one hand improves directional energy: This technique reduces the inefficient cross-body arm motion and helps you accelerate in a straight line more effectively.
• Turning on your strong side is faster: Data shows that turning toward your strong side while holding the bat in your dominant hand saves time on each sprint—potentially the difference between safe and run out.
• Bad habits in club-level cricket are slowing players down: Many club players carry the bat in two hands and don't prioritize running between the wickets, missing out on easy scoring opportunities.
• Strength training enhances performance: Players who lack the grip strength to carry the bat in one hand may need to focus on strength development before applying this method.
• Better technique improves both speed and tactical awareness: Running with an open body position (by turning correctly) allows for better visibility of the ball and reduces tactical errors like blind turns.

Quotes:

“The best runners between the wickets carry the bat in one hand—it's not just faster, it's smarter.”

“Awareness is the first step—if you’re not strong enough to run one-handed, that’s a technical flaw you need to fix.”

“Technique isn’t just about form; it’s about seeing the game better and making sharper decisions.”

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

We’re back on the Cricket Matters podcast, and this time, we’re going deep into throwing mechanics with none other than NASM Master Trainer Ken Miller. From near-death experiences in Serbia to world-class insights from baseball legends, this episode is packed with wisdom and laughs.

You’ll Learn:

• How baseball throwing mechanics apply to cricket. Ken breaks down how elite baseball pitching techniques—like hip-shoulder separation and ground-up force generation—can revolutionize how cricketers throw. The overlap between sports is far deeper than most think.
• How the lead arm acts like a shield that maintains balance, power, and accuracy. “Bite the burger” becomes your new mental cue for form.
• How many throwing injuries are due to problems in the core and lower body. A targeted warm-up and mobility work can transform both safety and performance.
• How to coach youth and adult athletes differently. Whether it’s a 12-year-old or a 40-year-old weekend warrior, Ken shares practical drills and adaptations to get the best out of every body type and experience level.

Key Takeaways:

• If you’ve got a shoulder problem, you’ve got a body problem
  Ken emphasizes that pain or dysfunction in the shoulder often stems from the hips, core, or even the feet. Effective throwing starts with a full-body check-in.
• Front side mechanics are a game-changer
  Dropping your front arm ruins your throw. Keeping the elbow up and pulling through ("biting the burger") helps maintain rotational integrity and prevents spinal and shoulder injuries.
• Movement quality beats aesthetics
  A six-pack won’t help if your spine can’t rotate or your hips don’t move. Ken urges athletes to focus on quality foundational movement first.
• Elite throwing relies on disassociation
  The ability to separate lower-body motion from the upper body is key. Ken explains that most amateur athletes lack this and that it's critical to train for that “lag” in movement.
• Preparation must be individualized
  Everyone has different postural and mobility issues. Custom warm-ups and drills based on individual needs beat cookie-cutter routines every time.

Quotes:

“If you've got a shoulder problem, you've got a body problem.”

“Don’t train like an elite athlete—move like a human first.”

“Your shoulder is only as good as your spine, hips, and footwork.”

Find Ken on:

• Instagram: @kjfitlab

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

In this episode of the Cricket Matters Podcast, we dive into why walking remains one of the most underrated yet effective pre-season strategies for cricketers. We just got back from a charity walk through the Welsh valleys, and it reminded us exactly how crucial endurance and volume training are—especially for club-level players.

You'll Learn:

• How consistent walking builds endurance, strengthens your joints and bones, and prepares your body for the demands of cricket season. It’s a simple but powerful way to boost recovery and maintain match fitness.
• How gradually increasing your walking volume helps develop baseline endurance, reducing injury risk when the matches start. Volume matters more than intensity for sustained pre-season progress.
• How to kickstart your walking routine with practical advice—whether you’re short on time, balancing family life, or just getting off the sofa. Hint: it starts with just 30 minutes a day.

Key Takeaways:

• Walking Builds Durability. Pre-season cricket requires more than nets and drills—it demands leg volume and general endurance. Walking is a low-impact way to build this durability.
• Most Cricketers Are Underprepared. Many club-level players skip fitness prep and jump straight into matches, leading to stiffness, soreness, and preventable injuries. Walking helps bridge that gap.
• Walking is Scalable for Everyone. Whether it’s 30 minutes a day or a weekend hike with the family, walking is easy to scale based on your fitness level and schedule. Small steps lead to big gains.
• Don't Skip the Basics. Everyone wants to sprint or bowl at full pace—but if you haven’t walked regularly, you're not ready. Start with walking, and let your body adapt from the ground up.

Quotes:

“As simple as it sounds, go walk more. Start walking more.”

“Endurance is a big part of cricket. You’ve got to last the whole day.”

“People start running, and I ask—when was the last time you even walked for 30 minutes?”

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com