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Lesson 7 - Advanced Fielding Techniques

Cricket Basics & Strategy

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Year 6

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Cricket

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1h 10min

Big Question

How can strategic fielding positions and quick reactions turn defence into attack in cricket?

Learning Objectives

To master a variety of fielding techniques including overarm throwing, two-handed pick up, and ball retrieval
To apply fielding skills tactically within competitive game situations
To demonstrate accurate throwing and catching under pressure

Key Outcomes

Students will execute at least three different fielding techniques with correct form
Students will make tactical fielding decisions based on ball direction and game situation
Students will work collaboratively to prevent scoring through effective communication and positioning

Equipment & Resources Required

Tennis Balls

15 (1 per 2 students + spares)

Store in central location for easy distribution

Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for beginners

Cricket Equipment

14 (1 per 2 students for game activities)

Check for damage and appropriate size for age group

Alternative: Wooden bats, plastic bats for safety

Cricket Wickets

7 sets (3 stumps each)

Ensure stumps are secure and at appropriate height

Alternative: Foam wickets, cone wickets for indoor use

Dish Cones

7 minimum

Use bright colours for visibility across playing area

Alternative: Sports markers, plastic bottles

Clues Document

1 teacher reference

Keep accessible for quick reference during instruction

Alternative: Visual technique cards, tablet with video demonstrations

Key Vocabulary

Overarm throw

A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder with elbow high for maximum distance and accuracy

Two-handed pick up

A fielding technique using both hands with little fingers together to scoop up an approaching ball

Ball retrieval

The technique of chasing and collecting a ball that has passed the fielder, then turning to throw

Run out

Dismissing a batter by breaking the wickets with the ball before they reach the crease

Wicket keeper

The fielder positioned behind the wickets to collect the ball and attempt stumpings

Stumping

Breaking the wickets with the ball while the batter is out of their crease

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic catching and throwing skills
Understanding of cricket basics including wickets and batting
Experience with simple fielding positions

Current Skills

Overarm throwing with accuracy and power
Two-handed pick up technique for approaching balls
Ball retrieval and quick release techniques
Tactical awareness in fielding positions

Next Steps

Advanced wicket-keeping techniques
Slip fielding and close catching
Team fielding strategies and field settings

Milestone Indicators

Consistent accurate throws over 15 metres

Quick decision-making between fielding techniques

Effective communication during live game situations

Key Teaching Points

Overarm throwing technique requires sideways stance with throwing arm furthest from target and high elbow position
Two-handed pick up uses cupped hands with little fingers together for balls approaching the fielder
Ball retrieval technique emphasises body alignment, correct foot placement and efficient turning on balls of feet
Communication between fielders, especially with wicket keeper, is crucial for successful run outs
Strategic fielding positioning considers starting further away to move toward ball rather than chasing from close
Progressive skill development from individual technique to partner practice to competitive application
Fair play and sportsmanship are as important as technical skill development in cricket fielding

Common Misconceptions

Students think gripping ball in palm provides better control - teach fingertip grip for accuracy and spin
Many believe facing target square gives more power - demonstrate sideways stance for proper weight transfer
Students often think they must stop ball first then throw - teach continuous motion for speed
Students assume all fielding situations use same technique - emphasise technique selection based on ball direction
Many think running hard is enough for ball retrieval - stress importance of controlled approach and balance
Students believe shouting is good communication - teach specific, helpful verbal cues for teammates
Students often think closer fielding positions are always better - explain strategic depth and anticipation

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity bursts with clear transitions, immediate feedback and praise, movement opportunities throughout, simple clear instructions one at a time

dyspraxia

Extra practice time for motor skills, broken down technique steps, larger equipment for easier manipulation, patient skill building approach

autism spectrum

Clear activity sequence displayed visually, quiet zones available for breaks, consistent routines and expectations, advance warning of activity changes

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls with bells inside, verbal cues for positioning, buddy system for guidance, tactile markers for boundaries

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear sight lines, hand signals for communication, written instruction cards, vibrating timer for activity changes

physical disability

Seated fielding positions allowed, modified throwing techniques, shorter distances, adapted equipment like larger lighter balls

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Measuring throwing distances, calculating success rates, timing activities, understanding angles of throw trajectory

Science

Forces in throwing action, friction between ball and surface, trajectory and gravity effects on ball flight

Geography

Spatial awareness, positioning and field placement, direction and distance concepts in fielding

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, handling competition pressure, resilience when mistakes occur, supporting and encouraging others

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Stand at corner of area during warm-up for full visibility, move centrally for demonstrations, circulate between pairs/groups during practice

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique execution, safe spacing between students, positive communication and cooperation

Intervention Points

Step in immediately if unsafe technique or behaviour observed, provide individual coaching for struggling students, redirect competitive spirit positively

Demonstration Notes

Demonstrate: Always show technique slowly first, then at match speed. Exaggerate key points for visibility from distance. Use error demonstration carefully to highlight correct technique.

Verbal Cues

•'High elbow for power and accuracy!'
•'Two hands together, little fingers touching!'
•'Line your body up with the ball!'
•'Talk to your teammates - communication wins games!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area or large sports hall, clear of obstacles and hazards

Surface Check

Dry, even surface free from stones, holes or debris that could cause trips or falls

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check tennis balls are not split or damaged which could cause injuries
•Ensure wickets are stable and stumps securely positioned
•Verify cricket bats have no splinters or cracks
•Confirm cones are not cracked and pose no cutting hazards

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body during throwing practice
•Collisions between students during running activities
•Trips and falls during quick directional changes
•Overarm throwing causing shoulder strain with poor technique

Risk Mitigation

•Clear throwing lanes established with adequate spacing between pairs
•Progressive skill building from short to longer distances
•Proper technique demonstration before independent practice
•Boundaries clearly marked and understood by all students
•Rotation system prevents fatigue and maintains concentration

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for maximum visibility of all throwing activities
•Monitor high-activity areas during competitive games
•Move between groups during skill development for close observation
•Watch for signs of fatigue or loss of concentration

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately if injury occurs, assess severity, provide appropriate first aid, contact office if medical attention needed