Lesson 7 - Advanced Fielding Techniques
Cricket Basics & Strategy
•Year 6
•Cricket
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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
Store in central location for easy distribution
Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for beginners
Check for damage and appropriate size for age group
Alternative: Wooden bats, plastic bats for safety
Ensure stumps are secure and at appropriate height
Alternative: Foam wickets, cone wickets for indoor use
Use bright colours for visibility across playing area
Alternative: Sports markers, plastic bottles
Keep accessible for quick reference during instruction
Alternative: Visual technique cards, tablet with video demonstrations
Key Vocabulary
A throwing technique where the arm moves over the shoulder with elbow high for maximum distance and accuracy
A fielding technique using both hands with little fingers together to scoop up an approaching ball
The technique of chasing and collecting a ball that has passed the fielder, then turning to throw
Dismissing a batter by breaking the wickets with the ball before they reach the crease
The fielder positioned behind the wickets to collect the ball and attempt stumpings
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
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