📍 THE WEEK’S RADAR

• KL Rahul and Steve Smith show how adjustments in balance and trigger movements can counter challenging conditions.

• BatDeep’s FreeBlade introduces cricket-specific resistance training with its innovative weighted design.

• Pre-delivery movements and proper kinetic chains improve energy transfer and shot accuracy.

• The 10/10 Method helps players build and sustain confidence during high-pressure moments.

• “Survival Showdown” tests communication, resilience, and shot selection in a net session game.

FROM THE ANALYSIS BOX

Balanced, Focused, Fluent: Two of a Kind

KL Rahul's innings at the Gabba hinged on precise fundamentals. His right eye positioned over off stump enabled confident leaves outside off—crucial on Brisbane's bouncy surface. The extra bounce, creating higher impact points on the bat, required him to stay on top of the ball and intercept late, particularly when driving.

Like Williamson, who also notched up a match-winning 156 against England, Rahul's success stems from impeccable balance at the crease. Both batsmen share that rare ability to stay side-on yet fluid, their weight distribution allowing them to rock back quickly and accumulate runs through controlled horizontal bat shots. This balance, combined with playing close to the body with soft hands, makes even defensive shots look assured, forcing bowlers to search harder for breakthroughs.

Signature Shuffle, Signature Smith

Smith's century at the Gabba marked a return to his characteristic shuffle, having reviewed footage with coaches McDonald and Borovec in the nets. Batting out of his crease and adjusting his back-and-across movement, he kept his left leg open to counter skidding deliveries that recently troubled him. By his own admission, he began with exaggerated trigger movements before finding his rhythm after riding some early luck. The technical change arrested a form slide and reinforced why he remains Test cricket's supreme problem-solver.

COACH’S KIT BAG

BatDeep’s FreeBlade: Weight Till You See This

FreeBlade introduces cricket-specific resistance training through its weighted pocket design, maintaining natural batting movements. Players and coaches report it particularly develops top-hand strength, translating directly to power hitting and batting endurance. The adjustable sleeve allows gradual weight progression while preserving technique - useful for both shadow batting practice and intensive net sessions.

THE SCIENCE OF SKILL

Trigger Science

A batsman's trigger movement follows Newton's third law, creating momentum (p=mv) crucial for stroke execution. These pre-delivery movements must achieve perfect balance at the Position of Readiness (POR), where dynamic equilibrium is vital. Poor timing disrupts the kinetic chain - from ground up through ankle, knee, hip, and thorax. Success hinges on equal forces at POR, enabling efficient energy transfer through the stroke.

The Force Of Weight Training

The art of batting hinges on sensory awareness and shot feel - that's where weighted training makes its mark. The science is clear: heavier weights heighten how batters sense and control their shots, while progressive loading builds batting muscles. This combination of feel and force develops timing and coordination, helping players adapt to match pressure.

BETWEEN THE EARS

The 10/10 Method: Making Confidence Visible

Rate your players' confidence like you rate their skills. Have them practice presence alongside technique. Score their self-belief out of 10 in every action - stance, stroke, and follow-through. When players know how their peak confidence feels in practice, they'll find it easier on match day. Help them recognise and repeat their most assured moments.

Job Board

JOB OF THE WEEK 🏏

PATHWAY MANAGER - WOMEN’S & GIRLS’ - Middlesex Cricket

Reporting to the Director of Cricket, the successful candidate will be expected to lead the Women and Girls Pathway, progressing from an Early Engagement Programme through to and including the Women’s First XI..

🔗View Complete Job Board 🔗

HOUSE OF COACHES

Survival Showdown

Setup: (40-min net session) Batting pairs start with 20 life points. Both batters at crease, switching every 6 balls.

Key Rules: Must communicate after EACH ball; if one gets out, both lose 5 points but continue batting.

Scoring: LOSE points: beaten (-2), missed (-3), edges (-4), dismissal (-5) GAIN points: defence (+2), check drive/attacking shots (+3), straight drive past bowler (+4), perfect leave (+2)

Coach role: Builds pressure with on-field banter and coordinated bowling plans.

Victory: Keep 20 points to be "Champions". Lose all? Push-ups await!

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