Cricket: The quick singles game

No ducks allowed! This week we look at how to help your players get started when at the crease and looking to build a big score.

10-12 players are needed for singles cricket and players should pair up so that they can bat and bowl in pairs.

Each pair has 1-2 wickets, once these have been used those players are out.

The rules change depending on how many runs are scored. If the batsmen have scored between 0 and 15 runs they are allowed 3 good balls in which they must hit the ball and run, otherwise lose a wicket.

If they have scored between 15-30 runs the batsmen have 2 good balls in which they must hit the ball and run, otherwise lose a wicket.

Above 30 runs you must play hit and run, regardless of how the ball comes.

Above 40 runs the batsmen are awarded a bonus, if not out, of 10 runs and then they must retire.

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Coaching points

A. For batsmen (running between the wickets)
1. Loud, quick positive calling.
2. Changing hands always looking at the ball. Never turning blind.
3. Non-striker backing up.
4. Run the first run fast.
5. Do not run past the crease after one run (because you might have to run again.)
6. Run with bat arm stretched out in front of you.
7. Hold the bat handle at the end.
8. Run your bat in over the line.

B. For fielders (creating pressure, stopping singles)
1. Walking in, Threatening
2. Pace to the ball.
3. Watch the ball into your hands under pressure.
4. Always back up other fielders and the wicket keeper.
5. Get to the bowlers end to take an incoming throw.
6. Know when not to throw.
7. Know when to throw over the top of the stumps and when to hit them.
8. Remain focused when under pressure.

Think! I must stop the single and build pressure for the batting side. Then I will force them into losing a wicket - and maybe the match!

Two teams with the coach bowling.

All batters have 4 balls. Each wicket that falls means that team loses four runs.

Catch after 1 bounce = out.

Players bat until they are out but must retire at 20 runs (optional). Runs are only awarded if the ball is played through the cones. If the ball is wide, or left, then the batter may have another ball.

The coach throws from approximately 10 paces away. Mark the front foot and back foot target areas on the floor with chalk or markers. Use markers for fielders to stand on or next to. Make sure that the batsman does not bat for too long (e.g. retire at 20)

Position all markers so the batsman can just about run a single without being run out.