Designed for cricketers who are showing an interest in the specialist areas of wicketkeeping, spin and pace bowling, these programs are an ideal way to increase your skills and learn more about the great game of cricket. These intensive, structured programs are delivered by the Elite Cricket High Performance Coaching Team and focus on developing the correct technique to optimise performance and prevent injury featuring video analysis and a customised individual strategy.

The program runs from 9am through to 2pm at St. Ignatius College and is limited to 30 places (10 keepers, 10 spin and 10 pace bowlers) and available for cricketers aged 11+ (preferably representative level).

Specialist Program Feburary 2010

Cheers

Mark

For the first time Elite Cricket and Cricket NSW will join forces to present a 2 day cricket coaching program to be held at North Rocks Park Carlingford on January 14th and 15th.

Jan 2010 CNSW-EC SHP enrolment form

Players will participate in a program of enjoyable, yet challenging age and skill appropriate development activities including:

• Attacking and defensive batting
• Pace, swing and spin bowling
• Short catching and out-fielding
• Wicket-keeping
• Modified games

The program is suitable for players 7 –13 and runs from 9.00am – 3.00pm.

On Day 2 of the program players will be able to meet a member of the RTA Speedblitz Blues, who will give coaching advice and sign autographs.

Cheers

Mark

Elite Cricket is excited to announce the venues and dates for our January 2010 School Holiday Program.  Simply click on the links below in red for application and enrolment details

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

Jan 2010 School Holiday Program enrolment form

Elite Cricket’s School Holiday Program is not just a school holiday activity but specifically designed to increase cricket skills and match performance.

The program is suitable for ages 7 – 14 and will be conducted from 9am to 3pm in both 2 and 3 day formats across the range of venues listed below.

• Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill – 6th, 7th & 8^th January
• St Ignatius College, Riverview – 11^th & 12^th January
• Shore Sportsground, Northbridge – 13^th, 14^th & 15^th January
• Greenway Oval, Cherrybrook – 18^th, 19^th & 20^th January
• Tryon Road, Lindfield – 21^st & 22^nd January

THE ‘ON THE BALL’ BEGINNERS PROGRAM

Jan 2010 ‘On The Ball’ enrolment form

‘On the Ball’ is for girls and boys from 5 -7 years, who have perhaps never played cricket or who have just begun their cricketing career. In these sessions run from 9am to 12pm and are a great way to have fun and learn about the game of cricket.

• Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill – 6th, 7th & 8^th January
• St Ignatius College, Riverview – 11^th & 12^th January
• Shore Sportsground, Northbridge – 13^th, 14^th & 15^th January
• Greenway Oval, Cherrybrook – 18^th, 19^th & 20^th January
• Tryon Road, Lindfield – 21^st & 22^nd January

Cheers

Mark

1 Day Boot Camp + Games enrolment form

Please note our December program is ***SOLD OUT***

Limited to 22 places this program is specifically for those cricketers with good cricket skills and fitness and who are self-disciplined, highly motivated and aged 12 years or above.

HIGH QUALITY COACHING PLUS GAME PLAY

The coaching component will challenge participants to an intensive one day coaching program to further enhance their existing skills and players will have the opportunity to choose specific training in their preferred disciplines with expert coaching in Wicket keeping, Batting, Pace and Spin Bowling.

• Analysis of bowling action by video
• Extensive bowling machine batting technique work.

On Day 2 players will meet at Riverview and participate in 2 games of 20/20 cricket.

We have 3 dates available for this exciting new program:

• 17 & 18 December ***SOLD OUT***
• 11 & 12 January
• 25 & 26 January

Cheers

Mark

Elite Cricket is excited to announce the venues and dates for our December 2009 School Holiday Program.  Simply click on the links below in red for application and enrolment details.

1 DAY BOOT CAMP AND T20 GAMES ***SOLD OUT***

Boot Camp + T20 Games enrolment form

Limited to 22 places this program is specifically for those cricketers with good cricket skills and fitness and who are self-disciplined, highly motivated and aged 12 years or above.

HIGH QUALITY COACHING PLUS GAME PLAY

The coaching component will challenge participants to an intensive one day coaching program to further enhance their existing skills and players will have the opportunity to choose specific training in their preferred disciplines with expert coaching in Wicket keeping, Batting, Pace and Spin Bowling.

• Analysis of bowling action by video
• Extensive bowling machine batting technique work.

On Day 2 players will meet at Riverview and participate in 2 games of 20/20 cricket

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

School Holiday Program enrolment form

Elite Cricket’s School Holiday Program is not just a school holiday activity but specifically designed to increase cricket skills and match performance.

The program is suitable for ages 7 – 14 and will be conducted from 9am to 3pm in both 2 and 3 day formats across the range of venues listed below.

• Lindfield Oval, Tryon Road – 14th, 15th and 16th December 2009
• Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill – 17th and 18th December 2009

THE ‘ON THE BALL’ BEGINNERS PROGRAM

‘On The Ball’ Program enrolment form

‘On the Ball’ is for girls and boys from 5 -7 years, who have perhaps never played cricket or who have just begun their cricketing career. In these sessions run from 9am to 12pm and are a great way to have fun and learn about the game of cricket.

• Lindfield Oval, Tryon Road – 14th, 15th and 16th December 2009
• Cooper Park, Bellevue Hill – 17th and 18th December 2009

Cheers

Mark

Is it for you?

High Performance Coaching is individual one on one coaching and the most effective way of progressing your game. Your personal coaching session(s) allows key technical issues to be identified and techniques adjusted to improve performance.

Sessions run for 45 minutes and are available for batting, pace and spin bowling and wicket keeping.  Batting sessions incorporate a bowling machine.  Full video analysis is available for bowlers.

For a stronger understanding and knowledge of your game I recommend a series of 5 consecutive sessions, but other options are available and I would be happy to discuss your requirements with you.

What should I get out of the session?

For all players our aim is to build confidence by improving the consistency of their game and mastering critical skills away from the pressures of match play. You will be coached to practice how you play and learn how to repeat your practice performance out on the field. We will also correct any bad techniques (particularly those that may cause injury) before they become an integral part of your game and are difficult to change.

Where?

• Gladesville Indoor Centre – Mon, Tuesday Wednesday and Friday

• Five Dock Indoor Centre – Wednesday only

Bookings and Other Info

To book please call  0422 787727 or email info@eiltecricket.com.au

Cancellations

Please note to ensure consistency of our product we need adequate time to cancel coaches and net bookings. Sessions may be cancelled up to 24 hours beforehand without penalty, however cancellations within 24 hours will be charged at the full fee.

Gift Vouchers are available for one or multiple sessions.

Please call me to discuss your coaching requirements and I would be more than happy to tailor a program specifically designed to meet your needs.

Cheers

Mark

Elite Cricket is excited to announce the venues and dates for our October 2009 School Holiday Program.  Simply click on the links below in red for application and enrolment details.

HIGH PERFORMANCE ACADEMY PROGRAM

High Performance Academy application form

This program offers coaching on turf nets, has a minimum skill requirement and is specifically designed for cricketers 13+ playing at representative level or its school equivalent.

• Drummoyne Oval – 9th October 2009 (one day only)
• St Ignatius College – 12th & 13th October 2009

ONE DAY BOOT CAMP AT FIVE DOCK INDOOR CENTRE

One Day boot Camp application form

Limited to 20 places this one day intensive program includes extensive bowling machine batting work and analysis of bowling action by video.

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

School Holiday Program enrolment form

Elite Cricket’s School Holiday Program is not just a school holiday activity but specifically designed to increase cricket skills and match performance.

The program is suitable for ages 7 – 14 and will be conducted from 9am to 3pm in both 2 and 3 day formats across the range of venues listed below.

• Shore School, Northbridge Sports Fields – 6th, 7th and 8th October 2009
• Woollahra Ovals 2 & 3, Rose Bay – 6th, 7th and 8th October 2009  NEW
• Lindfield Oval, Tryon Road – 12th, 13th and 14th October 2009
• St. Ignatius College, Riverview – 14th and 15th October 2009
• Greenway Oval, Cherrybrook – 14th,15th and 16th October 2009 NEW

THE ‘ON THE BALL’ BEGINNERS PROGRAM

‘On the Ball’ program enrolment form

‘On the Ball’ is for girls and boys from 5 -7 years, who have perhaps never played cricket or who have just begun their cricketing career. In these sessions run from 9am to 12pm and are a great way to have fun and learn about the game of cricket.

• Shore School, Northbridge Sports Fields – 6th, 7th and 8th October 2009
• Woollahra Ovals 2 & 3, Rose Bay – 6th, 7th and 8th October 2009  NEW
• Lindfield Oval, Tryon Road – 12th, 13th and 14th October 2009
• St. Ignatius College, Riverview – 14th and 15th October 2009
• Greenway Oval, Cherrybrook – 14th,15th and 16th October 2009 NEW

Cheers

Mark

The cricket season is just around the corner and it’s time to make sure you are ready for the best season of your life!  Many of you will be trialing for team selection in the coming weeks, my best piece of advice to you is to worry about own game and focus on doing the things that you are good at.  With this in mind I think it may be valuable for you to review the following articles below.  Good luck.

Masterclass:  Control The Controllables
Masterclass:  Dealing With Nerves And Fear Of Failure
10 Tips From David Freedman
Masterclass: The Art Of Fast Bowling – Brendan Drew

Cheers

Mark

I am very pleased to announce the schedule for our October 2009 High Performance Academy program.

• October 9th Drummoyne Oval
• October 12th and 13th St. Ignatius College, Riverview
• October 16th Five Dock Indoor Sport – Boot Camp

High Performance Acadmey enrolment form

1 Day Boot Camp application form

Places are limited and the programs are specifically designed for those cricketers playing at representative level or its school equivalent and is a key feeder program to Grade and Green Shield teams.  Successful applicants for this elite program will also possess high levels of cricket skill and fitness, be self-disciplined, highly motivated and aged 13 years or above.

Academy participants will train like first class players and be challenged by an intensive program to further enhance their existing skills.   On both days, players will have the opportunity to choose specific training in their preferred discipline with expert coaching in Wicket keeping, Batting, Pace and Spin Bowling.

• Turf Nets
• Sessions on captaincy, strategy and tactics
• Video analysis
• Individual batting session with bowling machine

Again I am looking forward to the opportunity bringing a group talented players together with excellent coaches and terrific facilities where I hope all players will gain some valuable insights, experience and inspiration from the program.

Cheers.

Mark

Elite Cricket is very pleased to present this exclusive Masterclass article by Tasmanian paceman Brendan Drew.

Enjoy.

Cheers

Mark

Developing an effective action

Developing an effective bowling action needs to combine three main components. Firstly our natural technique, this is what comes naturally to us, you can’t turn Glenn McGrath into a Brett Lee. Secondly and what has been a focus of many coaches in recent years is developing a ‘safe’ action. The action that comes naturally to us may put us at risk of injury, therefore adjustments need to be made to reduce that risk.  Combining these two components to develop a safe and effective action will allow us as bowlers to get more consistency, bounce, swing and seam.

The key components of an effective bowling action are:

• A smooth and efficient run up.
• A strong load up with the ball making sure the ball doesn’t go behind our head.
• The back foot land in a strong position on the same angle as the top half of the body. If you have a side on action your back foot should land almost parallel with the crease and if you have a front on action your feet should land facing down the wicket.
• A strong front arm getting our front shoulder up and pulling down hard to create momentum for the bowling arm to follow.
• Making sure the bowling hand comes down straight behind the ball with a strong wrist
• Follow through with the bowling arm coming the trough to the opposite hip and the back leg driving through the crease.

Fast Bowling Tactics

Fast Bowling is an art best kept simple. Glenn McGrath is the perfect example. He had the very simple game of bowling at the top of off stump or just outside as often as possible while hitting the seam which allowed the ball to move either way off the seam.

Different bowlers can have slightly different tactics, someone like Brett Lee or Shaun Tait has the ability to bowl fast and intimidate batsmen with pace allowing them to be more attacking. For those of us that don’t have the ability to bowl over 150km/hr we have to adopt the mentality of Glenn McGrath. Most bowlers have a stock ball, this is the ball that they bowl the best and most consistently, as a fast bowler we try to bowl that stock ball as often as possible in the area that is uncomfortable for batsmen, the top of off stump. The way a batsman is playing may suggest that a variation may be effective. Generally in domestic cricket fast bowlers tend to swing or seam the ball away from right hand batsman and bowl variations depending on what the bowler sees in the batsman’s technique.

Working a Batsmen Out

Most Batsmen have strengths and weaknesses it is our job as bowlers to identify these as early as possible in the batsman’s innings and develop a plan to either restrict the batsman by not allowing him to play to his strengths and develop a plan on the best way to bowl to the batsman’s weakness. Questions that we can ask as bowlers are:

• Does the batsman have a high back lift?
• Early in their innings batsman with a high back lift may be susceptible to a full quicker ball or Yorker
• Is the batsman strong or weak on one particular side of the wicket? This will determine what line is best to bowl for a player that is a strong off side player we may bowl straighter
• Does the batsman commit on the front foot too much or not enough? If a batsman commits too much to the front foot a bouncer may be effective and similarly if the batsman doesn’t move forward we can bowl a fuller length
• Does the batsman play with hard hand and in front of their body? Batsman with this technique may be susceptible to a slower ball, which can be bowled in a number of ways such as off or leg spinner, split finger or out of the back of the hand. These are all common methods used
• Does the batsman leave his stumps open staying leg side of the ball or does he walk across his stumps?  Batsmen that stay leg side of the ball may be susceptible to the ball that swings away from them where they may nick the ball to the waiting keeper and slips. Similarly batsmen that step across their stumps may be prone to get out LBW so bowling a few balls outside off stump to set up for a straighter ball on the stumps

In Closing

These are basic batting weaknesses that we as fast bowlers can identify pretty early in a Batsman’s innings. These tactics are all helpful things to look for to dismiss a batsman, generally if we as fast bowlers can bowl as many balls as possible in the “Corridor of uncertainty” or the top of off stump or just outside we are well on the way to a successful day with the ball.

Good luck.

Brendan Drew