Watching the ball is easier said than done

There are some good solid methods that I have seen over the years. Methods such as identifying markings or colourings on a ball whilst in transit to you. I have even found the whole concept of switching off and on during play and training to be vital in the success of watching the ball from the bowlers hand. That really gets into the concentration training field. I tackle this type of training with a speed of reaction take on it. And with a sprinkling of spatial awareness type training.

Firstly I like to get players simply reacting to and catching a ball dropped in front of them. Starting with arms by your side you then wait for the ball to be dropped and react accordingly. Tennis ball is best as the cricket ball drops too quickly initially. Next step is the simple old wall ball drills. While facing the wall at a certain distance a partner throws the ball (from behind you) at the wall making you react and catch the ball or at least stop the ball after bouncing off the wall. A progression to that one is to then move closer, your partner throw harder and you dodge and weave to evade the ball. Always keeping your eyes on the ball. I favour these methods purely because there are added benefits to this type of training. Plus it is far more interesting and dynamic. I always come back to quality rather than quantity.

To really spark some interest I have prescribed exercises where a cricketer has thrown up his own ball and tried catching it behind his back. The objective being to increase the spatial awareness of the individual. This helps him when he watches the ball on its path judge the length and bounce as well as intently watching the ball. It acts as an extra sword in his armour. Another method is standing with your back to a partner who throws a ball over your head or shoulder area. As you pick up the flight of the ball you begin watching and react to the ball and hopefully catch it.

This is my approach to watching the ball training but I must admit it is usually best done in private or semi private situations. Due to the fact that lairizing and fooling around can completely ruin the intensity and value of these exercises. So this is my take on this type of training.The beauty of training like this is the amount of work the Central Nervous System has to do. Hence why it needs to be short and sharp with lots of breaks. Oh and keeping your eyes open usually helps.