| Bob Woolmer once said that to fail to plan is to plan | | | | smaller run targets at 10 over intervals overs helps |
| to fail. Its not a new concept but it's true. | | | | with this. |
| All players, especially captains, need to do some | | | | 6. Be aware of the external factors that could have |
| preparation beforehand and keep on top of the | | | | an effect on your players and account for them. |
| game once it starts. Here is how: | | | | Your star bowler may be recovering from a heavy |
| 1. Set yourself 2 overriding principles: to win and give | | | | night out (This is club cricket after all). |
| as many people a game as possible. | | | | 7. Know the state of mind of your players. Are their |
| 2. Make sure everyone in consideration for the team | | | | nerves? Cliques? Grudges? Hopes? Confidence? |
| has open communication with you, and if selected | | | | Cricket is a game of mind and body, both must be |
| knows their own responsibilities and roles in the side. | | | | prepared. |
| 3. Select a final eleven that is as well balanced as | | | | 8. Find out as much as you can about your |
| possible. 5 bowlers would be ideal. | | | | opponents strengths and weaknesses and play to |
| 4. If you can't get an equally balanced side, know | | | | them. Talk to local teams who have played them |
| your team strengths and play to them. | | | | before and see what you can get out of their |
| 5. Make sure your batsmen know the par score for | | | | captain but always take things with a pinch of salt. |
| the ground you are on and apply the correct | | | | 9. Examine the wicket. Work out how it is likely to |
| pressure to achieve it. In fact, when batting first, | | | | play. |
| prepare your batsmen for you to declare on par | | | | 10. Become a weather expert. Study and understand |
| score and to get it as quickly as possible. Setting | | | | the forecast then plan around it. |