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Lesson 3 - Fielding & Batting Tactics

Skill Integration & Mastery

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Year 5

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Cricket

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Big Question

How do we use different fielding techniques and batting calls to prevent runs and ensure safe running between wickets?

Learning Objectives

To perform a range of fielding techniques confidently and consistently
To bowl with a run up using correct technique
To demonstrate tactical awareness when batting and fielding

Key Outcomes

Students will execute long barrier technique with correct body positioning
Students will bowl with controlled run up and accurate delivery
Students will use appropriate calls when running between wickets

Equipment & Resources Required

Cricket Equipment

10-15

Distributed among groups for activities

Alternative: Foam balls for beginners, rubber balls for outdoor use

Tees

Positioned at safe distances apart

Alternative: Traffic cones, plastic bottles with sand

Cones

20-30

Used for boundaries, targets, and safety zones

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Coloured Bibs

For warm-up activity identification

Alternative: Bean bags, soft balls

Rackets

3 sets

Set up at appropriate heights for Year 5

Alternative: Cones, skittles

Key Vocabulary

Long barrier

A fielding technique where the fielder gets down on one knee to create a barrier with their body to stop the ball

Crease

The line that marks the safe area for batsmen and the line bowlers must not cross when delivering

Run up

The approach a bowler takes before delivering the ball to build momentum and accuracy

Straight drive

A batting stroke where the ball is hit straight back past the bowler

Non-striking batsman

The batsman who is at the opposite end and not currently facing the bowler

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic throwing and catching techniques
Understanding of cricket batting stance
Knowledge of basic cricket rules

Current Skills

Long barrier fielding technique
Bowling with run up and follow through
Tactical batting calls and running between wickets

Next Steps

Advanced fielding positions and strategies
Bowling variation techniques (spin, pace)
Complex tactical game situations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent use of correct fielding technique under pressure

Accurate bowling delivery with run up

Clear communication and decision-making when batting

Key Teaching Points

Long barrier technique: 90-degree body angle with opposite knee down creates strongest fielding position
Straight drive batting: Head movement leads the shot, foot placement next to ball, straight swing through
Bowling run up: Controlled approach builds rhythm and accuracy, sideways-on position essential for power
Batting calls: Clear communication prevents run outs - striker calls for balls in front, non-striker for balls behind
Safety awareness: Equipment handling, spatial awareness, and following safety protocols protects all participants
Progressive skill development: Master basic technique before adding pressure and complexity
Tactical understanding: Connect individual skills to game situations and team success

Common Misconceptions

Misconception: 'Fielding with two hands is slower' - Correction: Two hands provide security and enable quicker, more accurate throws
Misconception: 'Running faster makes better bowling' - Correction: Controlled rhythm and consistent approach are more important than speed
Misconception: 'Always run when you hit the ball' - Correction: Smart calling based on where ball goes prevents run outs
Misconception: 'Long barrier is only for slow balls' - Correction: Technique works for all speeds when mastered properly
Misconception: 'Batting is just about hitting hard' - Correction: Placement and technique are more important than power

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts within stations, clear movement boundaries, regular positive feedback, leadership roles to maintain engagement

dyspraxia

Larger, lighter equipment, simplified movement patterns, additional practice time, step-by-step technique breakdown

autism spectrum

Clear visual timetable of rotations, quiet zones for breaks, consistent routines, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Bright coloured balls and equipment, audible boundaries (bells on cones), detailed verbal descriptions of all activities, buddy system with sighted partner

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations emphasised, hand signals for batting calls, written instruction cards, ensure face-to-face communication

physical disability

Seated batting positions available, modified bowling distances, larger target areas, adapted equipment as needed

Cross-Curricular Links

English

Communication skills through batting calls, vocabulary development, listening and following instructions

Maths

Scoring systems, angles for batting shots, distances for fielding positions, time management during rotations

Science

Forces in bowling (momentum, trajectory), friction in fielding, physics of ball flight and bounce

PSHE

Teamwork, resilience in competitive situations, fair play, supporting others' learning and development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Central position allowing oversight of all three stations, rotate to provide specific technical feedback

Observation Focus

Technique development, safety awareness, tactical understanding, and peer cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in for safety concerns, technique corrections, and tactical guidance during game phase

Demonstration Notes

Use exaggerated movements to show techniques clearly, involve students in demonstrations, relate to professional cricket examples

Verbal Cues

•'Head first, then foot!' for batting technique
•'Get that knee down!' for long barrier
•'Look at your target!' for bowling
•'Call clearly!' for batting communication

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Large outdoor area minimum 40m x 30m, or indoor hall with high ceiling for bowling practice

Surface Check

Even surface free from holes, debris, and wet patches that could cause slips

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Cricket balls checked for damage (soft balls preferred for Year 5)
•Bats inspected for splits or loose handles
•Wickets stable and appropriate height
•Cones have no sharp edges or cracks

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between students during running
•Trips from equipment on ground
•Overarm throwing injuries

Risk Mitigation

•Safe distances maintained at all activities (minimum 20m for batting)
•Soft balls used for all activities
•Clear boundaries and lanes marked
•Underarm throwing technique enforced
•Adult supervision at each station

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sight lines across all activities
•Rotate between stations to provide specific feedback
•Monitor high-risk activities (batting and bowling) more closely

Emergency Procedures

Clear stop signal established, first aid kit accessible, adult trained in sports injury response