Batting Plans - Some Thoughts

So here are my thoughts on "Batting Plans". They are GENERAL and they presuppose you are CONTINUALLY trying to be "Game Aware". This means staying in the moment and looking for opportunities to take advantages of increased stress levels, lapses in concentration and poor decision-making by your  opponents.

APPROACH THE GAME/YOUR INNINGS IN 4 OVER CHUNKS.

Keep asking the question "If things continue like this for the next 4 overs, where will I be and where will the game be?"

If the answer in both cases is "I/we will be moving closer to success!", CONTINUE DOING WHAT YOU HAVE BEEN DOING!"

If the answer to either question is "I will be out and/or the game will be slipping away from us" YOU MUST CHANGE WHAT YOU ARE DOING!!

When changing your plan, be DISCIPLINED, PATIENT AND UNDERSTAND THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR DECISIONS!

THEN -

Assess who is bowling what. Decide where they are most likely to bowl loosely. Establish what shots you are going to play when they ball these loose balls. Limit yourself to a couple of options – back foot and front foot. Also establish what deliveries to be watchful for.

THIS DOES NOT MEAN YOU PREMEDITATE YOUR SHOTS!

It just means you simplify your thoughts regarding each bowler in an effort to speed your response and move your side towards victory! When deciding what shots to play, be mindful of your strengths and weaknesses and rehearse HOW you should play these preferred shots.

REHEARSE, REHEARSE, REHEARSE - DON'T PREMEDITATE!!!

Remember! The first part of ANY plan is to WATCH THE BALL AND MOVE! The more closely you watch the ball, the quicker and more instinctive your movements will be.

Also remember - keep assessing the effectiveness of your plan in the context of what is actually happening in the game. If the bowler changes his line and/or length, that will probably mean you will need to change your plan. But be disciplined and patient when assessing these changes and REMEMBER THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR DECISIONS.

JH