📍 THE WEEK’S RADAR

• Test stars crack the T20 code: Smith & Root show the modern way

• Study: Batting follows geometric principles more than fixed form

• ProVelocity's smart bat delivers instant feedback for advanced shot-making

• Biomechanics study: X-factor rotation & timing unlock peak batting speeds

• Performance Operations Coordinator position opens at ECB’s Loughborough Performance Centre hub

• Bullseye Blitz: High-stakes batting drill merges precision with motivation

FROM THE ANALYSIS BOX

The Thinking Batter’s Guide to T20

Maestros Smith and Root displayed their T20 adaptability through recent match-winning knocks. Smith's 121 followed a clear plan - shifting gears smoothly, exploiting the short square boundary while playing percentage cricket to the longer side. Against spin, he kept it simple yet effective - straight hits mixed with targeting specific bowlers. Root's 62* for Paarl Royals was a masterclass in partnership batting, expertly rotating strike to maximise Pretorius's hot streak. Both innings proved how technique paired with smart match awareness remains highly relevant in T20 cricket.

Lines, Angles and Runs

Traditional coaching insists on keeping hands close to the body, yet legends like Lara, Ponting, and Tendulkar often moved their hands away, using an elevated grip with right hand dominance. This 'unweighting' principle, combined with Duncan Fletcher's batting geometry concept, shows success lies in aligning bat path with ball trajectory rather than conforming to textbook principles. Current batting stalwarts like Smith and Root continue proving this – their success stems from geometric efficiency as much as technical skill.

COACH’S KIT BAG

ProVelocity Cricket: Click. Connect. Clear!

Supercharge your power hitting with this clever training bat that helps improve exit velocity through better sequencing and mechanics. The sliding barrel provides a satisfying "double-click" at optimal swing speed, helping batters develop compact power and proper follow-through. Adjustable resistance bands let you progressively build strength and timing at any skill level. Want to clear the ropes more often? Try this.

THE SCIENCE OF SKILL

The X-Factor That Powers Cricket

Biomechanical analysis transforms cricket power-hitting mechanics: A kinematic study of 20 elite batsmen reveals the physics behind optimal striking distance. Impact proximity to sweet-spot plus bat velocity explains 70% of ball launch speed. Peak performance correlates with three key parameters: maximised X-factor (transverse pelvis-thorax rotation), anterior elbow extension, and wrist uncocking - explaining 66% of bat velocity generation.

Timing Trumps Torque

Baseball biomechanics data from Driveline's OpenBiomechanics Project reveals compelling insights into batting power. High bat speed hitters (>70 MPH) demonstrate distinct hip-torso mechanics: they delay separation initiation, achieve greater rotational stretch, then rapidly close this gap. For cricket coaches, these findings suggest that rather than maximising separation alone, the focus should be on the timing and efficiency of this sequence—teaching batters to channel energy transfer through the kinetic chain effectively.

BETWEEN THE EARS

Mountains Move in Moments

Athletes face a constant battle between soaring dreams and present focus. While the mind races to the summit—breeding comparison, anxiety, and doubt—peak performance lives in the now. Mental frameworks for learning, competing, and self-regulation become vital anchors, turning towering mountains into measurable steps.

Job Board

JOB OF THE WEEK 🏏

Performance Operations Coordinator, ECB

The post holder will be based at the ECB Performance Centre at Loughborough University and will have a responsibility to fulfil a range of administrative tasks relating to the activities of the England Men’s Player Pathway.

🔗View Complete Job Board 🔗

HOUSE OF COACHES

Bullseye Blitz

4 batters as team. Start: 50 points. Net 1: Machine (140kph) with coloured targets, Net 2: Live bowlers with marked zones. 12 balls per batter, rotating between nets.

Earn: Pre-called shot vs bowler to zone (+25), Pre-called machine target hit (+15), Clean strike vs bowler (+10) Lose: Mishit/edge (-15), Dot ball (-10), Poor technique (-15)

Team goal: Hit 6 pre-called targets overall. Challenge ends at 0 points.

Coach controls net switches and batter rotation at discretion.

Fail = 10x30m sprints, 30 burpees, 2min plank.

_{Coaching Pro - Cricket Edition is a Contentive Publication in the Sports Division}