Cricket Matters: Performance Engineering & Injury Management

Cricket Matters

Cricket performance doesn’t stall because players need more nets or more motivation. It stalls when the system breaks down.

Hosted by Performance System Architect James Breese and Josh Kennedy, the Cricket Matters Podcast delivers the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for long-term cricket development — connecting performance, injury management, and decision-making into one governed system.

We explore why injuries repeat, why training effort fails to translate into technical output, and how unmanaged load, fatigue, and recovery derail progress across a season. Drawing on clinical biomechanics, physical capacity development, and neural economy, each episode breaks down what actually holds up under match-day pressure.

This is not a tips-and-drills show. It’s a framework for cricketers, parents, and coaches who want clarity, not noise — and a performance system that lasts.

Better Every Ball starts with a better system.

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20 episodes
Updated Sep 30, 2025
Explicit

Episodes20

Newest first

Sep 30, 2025 · 10 min
We’ve Been Keeping a Secret from You…
We’ve got some exciting news to share with you in this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast. After weeks of planning and behind-the-scenes work, we can finally reveal the secret we’ve been keeping. This is a big step for us, and we can’t wait to tell you what it means for cricketers now and in the future. 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
Sep 23, 2025 · 14 min
How the Best Cricketers Train During the Off-Season
In this episode of the Cricket Matters Podcast, we dive into how the best cricketers train during the off season. We break down the fundamentals—assessment, strength, endurance, and pain management—to help you come back stronger when the season starts. You’ll Learn: Why assessment comes before training: We explain why knowing your baseline through performance analysis is essential before chasing strength or technique improvements. How to manage pain and prevent injury: Learn why pain isn’t weakness leaving the body, but a sign that your body is compensating—and how to address it early. The role of strength and power in cricket: Understand why baseline strength is the foundation, and how explosive power must be layered on top. Designing an off-season training focus: Discover the balance between aerobic endurance, compound lifts, and interval work to prepare you for peak performance. Key Takeaways: Assessment first, always: If you don’t measure where you’re starting from, you’re only guessing, and that leads to wasted effort. Pain is priority one: Training through pain causes compensations that hurt both technique and long-term health. Strength before power: Building a strong foundation ensures you can actually apply and maintain power throughout the season. Endurance has its place: The off season is the best time to build aerobic fitness, since it’s often neglected in-season. Two simple questions matter most: Ask yourself: Am I in pain? Am I overweight? Fixing those answers drastically improves performance. Quotes: “What gets done must first get measured—if we don’t assess, we’re just guessing.” “Pain is not weakness leaving the body, it’s stupidity.” “You can’t build power on rocky foundations—strength has to come first.” 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
Sep 11, 2025 · 14 min
Top Mistakes Club Cricketers Repeated This Year
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive into the classic mistakes that club cricketers keep making year after year. From mindset to fitness to on-field decisions, we’ve seen the same patterns repeat themselves—and we want to break them down so you don’t fall into the same traps. This is a mix of tough truths and lighthearted laughs, all with the aim of helping you improve your game. You’ll Learn: Mindset and preparation mistakes: Why comparing yourself to teammates holds you back and how reflection after games can change your results. Fitness and physical prep errors: How late nights, poor warm-ups, and bad nutrition habits silently sabotage performance. Common bowling and batting pitfalls: The dangers of overcomplicating tactics, ignoring conditions, and losing emotional control in the middle. Training habits that limit growth: Why aimless nets, skipped fitness work, and relying on new gear don’t deliver the improvement you expect. Key Takeaways: Comparing yourself to teammates breeds frustration; compete with yourself instead. One dismissal shouldn’t snowball into a slump—reflection and recovery are critical. Consistent warm-ups, hydration, and proper nutrition are underrated game-changers. Simplicity in bowling and batting—adapting to conditions and staying calm—wins more games than flashy skills. Purposeful training with intent and ownership matters far more than buying new kit. Quotes: “Stop focusing on what others are doing—focus on yourself and how you can improve.” “Keep it simple, stupid—consistency beats overcomplication at club level.” “Sometimes we forget—cricket is supposed to be fun.” 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
Sep 9, 2025 · 8 min
Why Most Cricketers Don’t Improve Year to Year
We all know the frustration of finishing one cricket season only to start the next in the same place—or sometimes worse. In this episode, we break down why most cricketers fail to improve year after year and what separates the ones who do. We’ll share how to use the off-season to your advantage, both physically and mentally, so you can come back stronger than ever. You’ll Learn: Why relying on “hope” instead of a plan keeps players stuck in the same cycle. We’ll explain how experience alone isn’t enough to make progress. The role of off-season training in building physical resilience and reducing injuries. Learn why October, not March, is where improvement begins. How reflection and assessment provide the foundation for growth. Without knowing your starting point, you’re just guessing. The importance of structure, accountability, and support networks. Even the best players need systems and people around them to succeed. Key Takeaways: Most cricketers don’t improve year to year because they rely on talent or luck instead of planning. Progress requires deliberate action. The off-season is where the biggest gains are made—physically, technically, and mentally. Waiting until March is already too late. Taking a mental and physical break after the season is essential, but it doesn’t mean doing nothing. Stay active in different ways to recharge. Reflection and assessment are non-negotiable for growth. Self-awareness helps create effective training plans. Hard work consistently beats raw talent. Players who prepare with discipline and structure always reap the rewards. Quotes: “The best players make a plan. They don’t hope for the best—they plan for the worst and hope for the best.” “If you don’t assess, you’re just guessing.” “Hard work pays off—it’s not just about talent, it’s about preparation.” 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
Sep 4, 2025 · 15 min
What Did You Learn This Season? (And How to Apply It)
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we reflect on the season just gone - what went well, what could’ve been better, and, most importantly, what we learned. We share honest reflections, practical advice, and actionable strategies that you can take into your own cricketing journey. You’ll Learn: How to evaluate your season with clarity – Learn why reflection is the first step to genuine improvement and how to assess both successes and shortcomings without bias. The four quadrants of cricket performance – Discover how physical, technical, tactical, and mental factors all contribute to performance, and why you need to review each one. Turning technical changes into performance – Hear James’ experience of adapting his batting technique and the lessons he learned about balancing technical focus with tactical execution. Planning your off-season the right way – Understand why fitness, technique, and tactical growth should all play a role in your off-season training plan. Key Takeaways: Reflection drives improvement – Don’t just say you’ll “do better next year”; take the time to analyze what actually worked and what didn’t. Stats reveal patterns – Runs, wickets, and modes of dismissal provide valuable insights into strengths and weaknesses you may otherwise overlook. Technical growth takes patience – Implementing big changes can reduce short-term output, but the long-term benefits are worth it when done thoughtfully. Physical readiness underpins performance – Weight management, fitness, and injury prevention are essential foundations for next season’s success. Pros think differently – Club cricketers can elevate their game by adopting the tactical and mental approaches used by professionals. Quotes: “Reflection is the first key to improvement.” “Failure leaves clues, success leaves clues.” “The best players start working on technical stuff before everybody else.” 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
Aug 26, 2025 · 8 min
The Fatal Flaw in Most Club Cricketers Batting Technique (And How to Spot It)
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive into the fatal flaw most club cricketers have in their batting technique and why it’s holding them back from becoming more powerful and athletic at the crease. We unpack what this flaw is, why it happens, and how you can start fixing it today. You’ll Learn: The hidden flaw in most batting stances – Why standing with your knees over your toes might feel powerful but actually puts you in a weak, unathletic position. The difference between a hinge and a squat – How confusing the two movement patterns is costing cricketers their balance, power, and shot range. Why glute activation is critical – Discover how failing to use your glutes limits your ability to generate force, move up and down the wicket, and hit big shots. Simple drills to retrain your hinge pattern – Practical exercises you can start immediately to unlock a stronger, more athletic batting stance. Key Takeaways: Knees over toes is not an athletic stance. It restricts movement, weakens balance, and causes batters to fall over when trying to play shots. Most cricketers don’t hinge properly. Instead, they squat without realizing it, which limits their ability to generate rotational and hip-driven power. Glutes are the engine of batting power. Without activating them, you lose explosiveness, core strength, and the ability to transfer energy into your shots. The hinge is like a slingshot. Mastering it allows you to load up with tension and release power into your swing, rather than just relying on quads and calves. Correcting the hinge improves everything. From better balance to more powerful shot-making, retraining this pattern is essential for long-term cricket performance. Quotes: “Knees over toes when batting is the fatal flaw—it makes you unbalanced and unathletic.” “Most players think they’re hinging, but they’re really just squatting.” “Your hamstrings are the strings of the bow—you need to load them to release real power.” 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
Aug 5, 2025 · 11 min
How to Play Spin Bowling: Discover the 4D Approach to Dominate Spin
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of batting: playing spin. Fresh off a nail-biting Test match, we explore what makes spin bowling so tough and introduce our powerful “4D Approach” to counter it. If you’ve ever felt stuck playing spin, this episode is for you. You’ll Learn: Why Spin Dominates in Over-40s and Club Cricket. As pace drops with age, spin takes over—making it essential to have a game plan when facing spinners. The 4D System to Dominate Spin. Learn how to move not just forward and back (2D), but also laterally across the crease to manipulate the bowler’s line and the field. Advanced Tactics to Disrupt Good Bowlers. Discover how stepping across the stumps, sweeping with confidence, and manipulating field placements can frustrate even top-tier spinners. Key Takeaways: Most Club Cricketers Lack a Spin Plan. Blocking or wildly swinging isn’t enough—without a clear tactical plan, you’re likely to get out to spin more often. The 2D Approach is Just the Beginning. Going forward or back is standard, but the real disruption happens when you move laterally and use the full crease. Field Manipulation is Key. By confidently sweeping or stepping across, you force the field to shift—opening up gaps to exploit. The 4D Approach Requires Confidence. This isn’t for beginners. You need sound technique, conviction in your sweep, and the guts to bat as if your stumps aren’t there. Technique Comes Before Tactics. You can’t apply advanced strategies without first being technically sound. Good setup, footwork, and balance come first. Quotes: “You have to have the confidence to bat as if your stumps aren’t there.” “If you don’t know what the pitch is doing, you’re always going to struggle.” “Most club cricketers just sit there and block the crap out of it.” 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
Jul 24, 2025 · 14 min
Why Club Cricketers Struggle Against Spin (It’s Not What You Think!)
We’ve all watched club batters crumble against spin bowling and wondered—why does it happen so often? In this episode, we unpack the real reason behind the struggle—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about technique. James Breese joins us to break down the mindset, game plan, and psychology required to play spin smarter at the club level. You’ll Learn: Why technique alone won’t save you from spin. Most players focus too much on form, not enough on having a solid, situation-based plan for each type of bowler. How the quality of the bowler shapes your strategy. Lower-tier bowlers require simple execution and patience, while higher-level spinners demand tactical variation and adaptability. How pitch conditions affect your shot selection. Learn when to sweep, when to use your feet, and how the bounce and turn of a pitch can determine your entire approach. The critical role of patience and psychology. Mental discipline isn’t optional. Your ability to stay calm, stick to your plan, and wait for the right ball is what separates good batters from great ones. Key Takeaways: Don’t overcomplicate things against weak spinners. Stick to punishing bad deliveries instead of trying reverse sweeps and fancy footwork—they’re usually unnecessary and risky. Game plans beat guesswork every time. Good batters don’t just react—they plan. Your success depends on understanding the quality of the bowler and pitch, and making proactive decisions. Patience isn’t passive—it’s tactical. Blocking without a plan leads to frustration. Have a clear intent behind every defensive or attacking move to stay in control. Create pressure through rotation. Smart footwork and strike rotation push bowlers off their length, increasing your scoring opportunities. Psychological edge matters. Understanding the mental battle helps you stay focused under pressure and resist the urge to swing blindly when runs dry up. Quotes: “The lesser the quality of the bowler, the less you need to go into your toolbox.” “You can’t just go actively attacking a spinner you’ve never seen before—assess first.” “Use your feet or sweep, but do something—staying in the same zone is what the spinner wants.” 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
Jul 22, 2025 · 13 min
How to Find Your Perfect Trigger Movement (And Why Most Batters Never Do)
In this episode, we break down the misunderstood concept of trigger movements in batting—and why most club players are focusing on the wrong thing. In this episode, we share real training insights, honest mistakes, and what actually separates pros from amateurs. You’ll Learn: Why Most Club Cricketers Don’t Need Trigger Movements. If your technique isn’t sound, trigger movements won’t save you—they’ll break you. This episode explains why slower bowling doesn’t require triggering and how most amateur batters jump the gun. The Difference Between Forward Press and Back-and-Across. Discover why the forward press is often misunderstood and how it can help with both spin and fast bowling. Learn how finding the right trigger for you is key—not mimicking the pros. When and Why to Introduce Trigger Movements. Technique first, trigger second. We discuss how poor timing in teaching trigger movements can cause more harm than good, especially for young players. How to Use Bowling Machines to Test Readiness. Hear what happened when James faced an 80+ mph Truman ball indoors—and how it exposed flaws even in good technique. Learn how dynamic adjustments helped him hit cleanly. Key Takeaways: Trigger Movements Are Overrated Without Good Technique. Players obsess over triggers without mastering alignment, balance, and clean contact. Fix your head, hands, and footwork first. Technique Under Pressure Reveals the Truth. When the pace ramps up, poor technique becomes painfully obvious. Triggering won’t fix collapsing structure—it just exposes it faster. Find What’s Natural to You—Not What Looks Good. There’s no one-size-fits-all trigger. Whether it’s a forward press, back-and-across, or hand movement, the right one should feel instinctive under pressure. Layer Habits the Right Way. Habit stacking—fix one thing, then move to the next. Trigger movements should be added only after foundational technique is solid. Off-Season is for Experimenting, Not In-Season. Don’t overhaul your technique mid-season. Use the off-season for deeper work and try changes when you’re not chasing performance. Quotes: “Trigger movements are useless unless you have a solid foundation of technique.” “They’re so obsessed with movement they forget what good contact even feels like.” “Habit stacking. Fix one habit, then earn the right to add another.” 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
Jul 8, 2025 · 9 min
The Mental Struggles Nobody Talks About in Women’s Cricket
In this episode, we dive into a conversation that’s long overdue—mental health and confidence issues in women’s cricket. We reflect on the hidden struggles female athletes face, beyond just technique or skill. From fear of failure to the need for reassurance, this one’s about the mindset shifts that matter most. You’ll Learn: The unseen mental challenges female cricketers face. We break down how fear of judgment, lack of experience, and internal self-doubt often hold back performance more than technical skill ever could. How confidence impacts on-field decision-making. From running between wickets to bowling under pressure, a lack of self-belief can limit the execution of good decisions. The role of coaches and community in mindset development. James shares how intentional support and reassurance can empower female players to grow into leadership roles and take initiative. Why female athletes may outperform in coachability. Compared to men, women are often more receptive to feedback and eager to understand the ‘why’ behind training methods, making them more adaptive and growth-focused. Key Takeaways: Confidence trumps technique in grassroots women’s cricket. Without self-belief, even technically sound players may hesitate or underperform due to fear of failure or judgment. Female athletes often seek reassurance. Coaches must recognize the psychological weight many players carry, from life stress to inexperience, and foster a safe space for mistakes. Performance improves with fearless play. When female teams adopt a mindset that accepts mistakes, they often outperform opponents through bold strategies like aggressive running. Women tend to be more coachable. Their openness to feedback and willingness to engage makes them ideal students of the game, especially when given clear rationale. Small actions build long-term leadership. Teaching practical responsibilities—setting up the field, organizing gear—can instill agency and boost confidence off the pitch. Quotes: “It’s okay to make a mistake. That’s part of the plan.” “The hidden struggle in the women’s game is confidence and self-belief.” “Female athletes often display traits of high-performance mindsets more than men.” 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
Jul 1, 2025 · 20 min
What’s a Good Batting Average in Club Cricket?
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive into a topic that’s close to every batter’s heart: what actually counts as a good batting average in club cricket? We crunch the numbers, challenge the myths, and share a reality check that every aspiring player needs to hear. You’ll Learn: Why averages alone don’t tell the full story. We explore how focusing only on your batting average can be misleading and why it’s crucial to consider 50+ scores and conversion rates for a true performance assessment. What elite player stats reveal about consistency. James breaks down test, ODI, and T20 data from cricket legends like Tendulkar, Kohli, and Joe Root to show how often even the greats “fail”—and what that means for club players. How to benchmark yourself as a club cricketer. You’ll get a data-driven framework for what a “good” batting performance looks like depending on your role in the lineup, from opener to tail-ender. The mindset shift needed for performance improvement. We unpack why many club cricketers overrate themselves based on one good knock and how to take ownership of your form with honesty and data. Key Takeaways: 50+ scores are more important than average alone. A high average can be inflated by not-outs or low-pressure runs. What really matters is how often you’re converting starts into match-defining scores. Even the greatest cricketers get out a lot. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting scored 50+ runs in only about 35% of innings. That means failing 65% of the time is still elite performance. Joe Root and Virat Kohli are statistical outliers. Their incredible consistency, with nearly 50% of innings over 50 runs, puts them on a level unmatched even among the top 10 run-scorers of all time. Club performance must be evaluated across 10 innings. One-off big scores don’t prove form. Patterns over 10 innings give a clearer picture of who’s performing—and who just got lucky. Your division should reflect your performance level. If you’re averaging 80 but playing low-division cricket, you’re not being challenged. Conversely, low scores at high levels may mean it’s time to regroup. Quotes: “In cricket, the stats don’t lie—and they don’t lie over time.” “Everyone remembers their 74, but forgets their 12 and 3.” “Batting average without conversion stats is only half the story.” 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
Jun 12, 2025 · 6 min
Why Cricket Players MUST Do In-Season Strength Training!
In this episode of The Cricket Matters Podcast, we dive into a topic that’s often ignored once the season begins—in-season strength training. We get it—game days, practice, and recovery all take time, but we’re here to show you why skipping the gym could be the biggest mistake you make this season. You’ll Learn: Why In-Season Strength Training Matters: Skipping the gym during the season can lead to performance drops, injuries, and unwanted weight gain. We explain how continuing to train—even at reduced intensity—keeps you game-ready. How to Train Without Overtraining: In-season workouts should be lower in volume but still explosive and intentional. We talk through how to adjust your routine without burning out. Avoiding the Off-Season Reset: Losing strength mid-season means wasting the off-season rebuilding what you already had. Learn how to maintain muscle mass so you can use the off-season to get ahead, not catch up. Simple Training Strategies That Work: You don’t need hours in the gym—30-minute full-body sessions with smart movements like kettlebell swings and Turkish getups are enough. We break it down for you. Key Takeaways: Consistency is king—even during the season. Athletes who train consistently throughout the season stay stronger, healthier, and more explosive. Reduced volume doesn’t mean reduced results. Strategic, focused workouts with lighter loads still maintain strength and prevent decline. Weight gain affects performance more than you think. Carrying even a few extra kilos can slow you down, increase injury risk, and hurt match-day results. Game fuel can be a trap. Treats like sweets and post-game beers are fine in moderation—but they must be balanced with continued training. The season is just getting started. Don’t back off now—this is when your strength work matters most to carry you through the months ahead. Quotes: “In-season is the time to maintain the strength you’ve gained.” “The more unathletic you become, the more it impacts your performance.” “Thirty minutes, full-body, in and out—that’s all it takes.” 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
Jun 10, 2025 · 13 min
Cricketers Suffering From BACK SPASMS? What's The Solution?
We’ve seen more and more cricketers dealing with crippling back spasms lately, so we knew it was time to dive deep into the real reasons behind them. In this episode, we’re unpacking the mechanics of back spasms, why they’re not always about your back, and what you can do to fix them fast. From personal stories to professional insights, we’ve got the game plan you need. You’ll Learn: How dysfunction in the lateral subsystem—especially the opposite side glutes and adductors—can trigger spasms. The pain might show up in your back, but the root problem is often elsewhere. How repetitive movements in cricket, especially fast bowling, put strain on specific muscle chains. You’ll understand why even simple actions like putting on socks can cause a spasm. Practical first steps to reduce threat levels and begin moving again. From floor-based resets to crawling, you’ll learn what helps your nervous system calm down. The step-by-step rehab protocol James used to recover in one week. It’s about more than massage—activation of neglected muscles is just as crucial. Key Takeaways: Pain isn’t always where the problem is: Back spasms can be symptoms of deeper dysfunction in the lateral subsystem. The real culprit is often weak or inactive glutes and adductors on the opposite side of the spasm. Back spasms are protective mechanisms: The body locks down to protect itself when it senses instability. Resetting this response starts with reducing the “threat level” by getting closer to the floor and initiating small movements. Massage and dry needling work—but they’re not enough alone: Manual therapy provides immediate relief, but without activating weak muscles, the spasm cycle can return. Long-term relief requires integration. Movement is medicine, but the right movement: Crawling, bird-dogs, clamshells, and glute bridges are powerful tools when applied correctly. It’s not just about doing exercises—it’s about restoring balance in the system. Performance suffers when your lateral subsystem is off: Persistent issues like hip, groin, knee, or ankle pain—and even poor rotation—can all trace back to the same dysfunctional chain. Quotes: “You have to release and then activate—do one without the other and the problem will return.” “When you go into spasm, reduce the threat level. Get your head closer to the floor and start moving.” “If you’re not willing to spend a few days fixing it now, be ready to suffer with it for months.” 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
Jun 5, 2025 · 10 min
How Much Protein Cricketers Need In-Season?
In this episode, we dig into a topic that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential for in-season performance: protein. We share our own routines and discuss how proper protein intake can make or break your recovery, energy levels, and injury risk throughout the cricket season. You’ll Learn: How protein supports muscle retention, recovery, and overall performance—especially when gym time decreases and game time increases. The science-backed formula for determining your daily protein intake based on your body weight and activity level. Most players think they’re getting enough protein—but we explain why they’re usually far off and how to fix it. How to spot quality protein sources, including options for meat-eaters and vegetarians, plus why “cheap” protein powders could be sabotaging your performance. Key Takeaways: Prioritizing protein curbs hunger and reduces the temptation to grab sugary snacks or energy drinks during long cricket matches. During the season, training volume often drops—protein becomes your insurance policy to maintain strength and mass. A simple formula of 2g of protein per kg of bodyweight is the sweet spot for most cricketers aiming for performance and recovery. Not all protein is created equal. Opt for whole food sources and reputable protein supplements to get the most bang for your buck. If calorie tracking isn’t your thing, aim for five palm-sized servings of protein daily to stay on track. Quotes: “Cricketers put on weight in-season because they’re not eating to stay full—they’re eating to feel better.” “If you’re in a deficit or injured, your protein needs go up, not down.” “High-quality protein isn’t cheap, but it pays off in how you feel and perform.” 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
May 22, 2025 · 14 min
Cricket Batting Mindset: The 6-Step Mental Routine That Works
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive into one of the most crucial—and often overlooked—aspects of the game: the mental side of batting. We share the proven six-step mental routine that can help cricketers of all levels improve focus, confidence, and performance at the crease. You’ll Learn: Why mindset separates good players from great ones We explore how elite athletes—from cricketers to basketball legends—use mental clarity to gain a competitive edge and perform under pressure. How to control nerves and emotions before batting Understand the physiological and psychological responses to pressure and how to manage them with intentional actions. A breakdown of the two-phase batting mindset routine Learn the specifics of the Recover and Refocus phases, including actionable steps like Reset, Reflect, Relax, and Plan, Set, Cue. The importance of building personal pre-ball rituals Discover how professional athletes develop repeatable routines to stay calm and consistent between deliveries. Key Takeaways: Mental clarity can make or break your innings. Losing focus for even a single ball can end your time at the crease, making mindset just as vital as technique. The "Recover" phase helps you move on from the previous ball. Reset, Reflect, and Relax are designed to process the last delivery and emotionally reset for the next. The "Refocus" phase prepares you for what’s next. Planning your intent, setting your stance, and using a personal cue helps eliminate distractions and build consistency. Personal rituals act as performance anchors. Repeating the same physical and mental actions before each ball helps eliminate nervous energy and fosters confidence. This mental routine is rooted in research, not guesswork. The six steps are supported by psychology and sport science, with parallels in disciplines like baseball, tennis, and basketball. Quotes: "The thing that separates the best players from the good players is what goes on between the ears." "If you can’t learn to switch off, you’ll fatigue—and not just physically, but mentally." "Top professionals have the same routine ball after ball—it’s what allows them to perform under pressure." 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
May 20, 2025 · 7 min
[Case Study] How Pain Affects Technique When Batting
In this episode of Cricket Matters, we get personal. We share firsthand experiences of how physical pain can quietly creep into your technique and sabotage your game without you even noticing. From bruised wrists to locked-up hips, we dive into why ignoring pain is never the answer. You’ll Learn: The subtle ways pain changes your technique: Even a minor wrist injury can shift your grip, leading to poor bat control and unintended shots. Pain doesn't just hurt—it rewires your mechanics. Why playing through pain is a long-term risk: Masking discomfort may get you through one match, but it can lead to compensation patterns that permanently alter your technique. The importance of proper assessment and treatment: Seeing a physio or sports therapist early can prevent small issues from becoming chronic. DIY fixes aren't always the answer. How grip strength can reveal underlying issues: James shares how a simple kettlebell test helped him measure his grip capacity—and discover he wasn’t as recovered as he thought. Key Takeaways: Pain changes how your body moves—often without you knowing it. Your technique suffers silently, and over time, it can become your new normal. A minor injury in your hand can derail your batting technique. Something as simple as grip strength being off can lead to mistimed shots and reduced performance. Don’t rely on internet fixes—see a professional. Medical advice tailored to your body is always more effective than general YouTube routines. Athletes often ignore pain until it disrupts performance. Being proactive is crucial; regular assessments and mobility work should be part of your routine. Pain is usually a symptom, not the cause. Dig deeper into movement patterns, posture, and daily habits to find and address the root issue. Quotes: “Pain affects everything in your day-to-day life—but especially your performance on game day.” “Grip strength doesn't lie—if you can't hold a kettlebell, something's wrong.” “If you're moving like you're wearing concrete boots, it's time to take care of your body.” 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
May 13, 2025 · 9 min
How to Watch the Ball Better When Batting
In this episode, we dive into one of the most commonly repeated — yet misunderstood — pieces of batting advice: “Watch the ball.” We explore what that really means and how cricketers can improve their ability to see and track the ball more effectively through techniques borrowed from baseball and other sports. You’ll Learn: Why just telling batters to “watch the ball” isn't enough, and learn what elite players actually do when they're watching it. You'll hear why many dismissals happen because players lose sight of the ball at a crucial moment. How shifting between a soft focus on the bowler’s body and a hard focus on the ball’s release point helps players track the ball better. These techniques, rooted in baseball, can transform how cricketers perceive and react. How keeping your head still improves both depth and speed judgment. How to improve your ball-tracking ability beyond match play — including apps, drills, and slow-motion practice. It’s not just about reflexes; it’s about awareness and training your visual muscles. Key Takeaways: Soft and hard focus work together Soft focus helps you gather general information about the bowler's body and movement, while hard focus allows you to zero in on the release point. Switching between the two is a skill that can be practiced and developed. Not all bowlers are the same Facing bowlers with slingy or sidearm actions makes ball-tracking much harder. This is where a flexible visual strategy becomes essential. Stillness improves visual clarity A still head allows you to better judge line, length, and speed — it’s not just about technique, but perception too. A moving head can distort how fast the ball appears to be coming at you. Vision training is crucial Like any other physical skill, your eyes and focus can be trained. From net practice with slow-motion to using baseball-inspired vision apps, there are many ways to develop this edge. Quotes: “Soft focus is the wide gaze on the bowler; hard focus is locking in on the release point.” “Not all bowlers present the ball cleanly. Some you lose it before you even pick it up.” “Your eyes are muscles — they can and should be trained.” 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
May 8, 2025 · 1 hr 14 min
What Cricketers Can Learn from Elite Triple Jumpers (ft. Luís Mesquita)
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Luis Mesquita—physiotherapist, S&C coach, and co-founder of The Peak training facility—whose deep dive into eccentric strength and deceleration performance truly stopped us in our tracks. In this episode, we explore the science behind "putting on the brakes" and why it might just be the performance edge cricketers are missing. You’ll Learn: How deceleration and eccentric strength affect everything from sprinting to bowling, and why the best athletes have the best “brakes.” Training methods to develop force quickly without overwhelming athletes—critical for fast bowlers and injury prevention. How excess fat and poor fueling sabotage athletic performance, even among elite athletes. Why eccentric work in the gym complements—but never replaces—sports-specific training on the pitch. Key Takeaways: Eccentric strength is foundational for elite movement: Athletes who can absorb force quickly—like triple jumpers—perform better and stay healthier, especially in high-impact sports like cricket. Jump tests reveal hidden weaknesses: Many cricketers underperform in basic tests like the broad jump, indicating poor force production and transfer—issues that limit bowling speed and power. Different athletes need different strength strategies: Not everyone benefits from max strength gains. Elastic, reactive athletes often thrive with speed and plyometric work over heavy lifts. Body composition is a performance multiplier: Lean athletes not only move better—they recover faster. Poor body comp often signals deeper issues in professionalism and mindset. High-quality reps beat high-volume grinds: Intensity trumps volume when developing speed and reactive strength. Fewer, sharper reps with maximal focus deliver better results than “junk volume.” Quotes: “You don’t absorb force—you produce force to break.” “Better athletes make better cricketers.” “Technique and physical capacity can’t live without each other.” Find Luís on: Instagram: @luismmesquita 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
May 6, 2025 · 8 min
3 Times Every Batter MUST Know When Running Between Wickets
In this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast, we dive into one of the most overlooked but game-changing elements of batting—your sprint times between the wickets. We’re building on last week’s sprinting episode and getting laser-focused on the exact times you need to hit to become an elite-level runner between the wickets. You’ll Learn: The ideal timings for singles, twos, and threes—critical benchmarks for every aspiring cricketer. Why training in both kit and no-kit setups gives a more accurate picture of your game-readiness and sprint performance. How professional athletes use exact sprint data to inform their decisions and improve their performance. The importance of proper turning techniques and sprinting mechanics for maximizing speed and minimizing lost time. Key Takeaways: Know Your Numbers Elite cricketers know how fast they can run a single (around 3.1–3.5s), a two (7.1–7.3s), and a three (10.6–10.7s). Knowing your exact times gives you a tactical edge on the pitch. Train in and out of Kit Practicing both with and without cricket gear ensures better sprint mechanics and real-game preparedness. Your form changes when wearing full kit, so both environments are vital. Turning Can Make or Break a Run Efficient turns, especially off your strong side, can significantly cut down your total time. Bad turns equal lost runs. Sprint Mechanics Are Foundational Good sprinting form—strong arms, posture, and leg drive—transfers directly into faster in-game performance. Poor mechanics slow you down, especially under pressure. Women’s Sprint Data Is Catching Up While research is sparse, the team provides estimated benchmarks for female cricketers to work towards based on comparative sports science data. Quotes: “The best cricketers know how fast they can run a single, a two, and a three.” “If you don't know your times, you're just guessing—and guessing won't win you matches.” “Train like a sprinter, even in your pads. Mechanics matter.” 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
May 1, 2025 · 10 min
The Secret to Running Faster Between the Wickets
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