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Lesson 5 - Overarm Bowling Technique

Cricket Basics & Strategy

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Year 6

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Cricket

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45 min

Big Question

How can I use precise technique and tactical thinking to become an effective bowler and fielder?

Learning Objectives

To develop overarm bowling technique with accuracy and consistency
To apply tactical fielding skills to prevent scoring
To demonstrate fair play and self-management in game situations

Key Outcomes

Students will bowl overarm with correct technique to hit wickets consistently
Students will track and field balls effectively to support their team
Students will apply tactical awareness in cricket game situations

Equipment & Resources Required

Cones

Use for marking bowling positions, boundaries, and target areas

Alternative: Markers, bean bags, or small hoops

Cricket Equipment

Ensure appropriate size for Year 6 students, check for damage

Alternative: Rounders bats, tennis bats, or padded implements

Cricket Wickets

Set at appropriate height for Year 6, ensure stable placement

Alternative: Stumps, cones arranged in triplets, or target boards

Hoops

Use as bounce targets, vary sizes for differentiation

Alternative: Chalk circles, rope circles, or cone markers

Tennis Balls

Check condition, ensure adequate quantity for group work

Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for safety

Key Vocabulary

Overarm bowling

A bowling technique where the arm swings over the shoulder in a windmill motion

Wicket keeper

The fielder who stands behind the wickets to collect the ball

Bowling action

The complete sequence of movements used to deliver the ball

Target bowling

Bowling with specific aim and placement to hit a target area

Field placement

Strategic positioning of fielders to prevent runs and take catches

Skill Progression Pathway

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

Prior Learning

Basic underarm bowling technique
Simple catching and throwing skills
Understanding of cricket basic rules and scoring

Current Skills

Overarm bowling technique development
Tactical fielding and ball tracking
Game management and fair play skills

Next Steps

Advanced bowling variations and spin
Complex fielding positions and strategies
Full cricket match play with advanced tactics

Milestone Indicators

Consistent overarm bowling action

Accurate targeting of wickets

Effective fielding positioning and communication

Key Teaching Points

Overarm bowling technique: grip, step, number 6 action, straight arm release
Accuracy through consistent technique rather than increased power
Communication and teamwork essential for effective fielding
Fair play and honest self-officiating builds character
Progressive skill development from basic technique to tactical application
Practice and repetition improve performance and confidence
Tactical awareness enhances game understanding and enjoyment

Common Misconceptions

Faster bowling is always more effective - emphasise accuracy over power
Bowling technique doesn't matter in games - maintain technique focus throughout
Only bowlers need to understand cricket tactics - all players benefit from tactical awareness
Individual skill more important than teamwork - highlight collaborative success
Competitive games don't require fair play - model and expect honest play always

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Shorter activity segments, clear boundaries and rules, regular movement breaks, specific role assignments

dyspraxia

Simplified technique steps, larger targets, extra practice time, visual technique cues

autism spectrum

Clear visual schedules for activities, quiet zones available, predictable routines and structure

visual impairment

Use bright coloured balls and equipment, provide verbal descriptions of setup, tactile guidance for bowling technique

hearing impairment

Visual demonstrations with clear gestures, written instruction cards, buddy system for communication

physical disability

Modified bowling distances, seated bowling positions, adapted equipment or alternative roles

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Scoring systems, distance measurements, angles of bowling delivery, geometric wicket arrangements

Science

Forces in bowling action, trajectory physics, momentum and ball speed, biomechanics of technique

Geography

Field positioning and spatial awareness, mapping cricket field layouts, directional movement

PSHE

Fair play and honesty, teamwork and communication, resilience when facing challenges, leadership development

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move between groups during activities, central position for demonstrations, maintain sight lines to all students

Observation Focus

Watch for correct bowling technique, safe practices, positive communication, and tactical understanding

Intervention Points

Step in when technique deteriorates, unsafe practices occur, or conflicts arise

Demonstration Notes

Use slow-motion technique demonstrations, exaggerate key points, provide multiple viewing angles for complex skills

Verbal Cues

•'Remember the number 6!'
•'Step with opposite foot!'
•'Straight arm release!'
•'Great communication, fielders!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 20m clear area for multiple cricket activities, indoor hall or outdoor field

Surface Check

Dry, level surface free from holes or hazards, appropriate grip for cricket movements

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check cricket bats for cracks or splinters
•Ensure wickets are stable and properly assembled
•Tennis balls in good condition without cracks
•Hoops and cones securely placed

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to body or head
•Collisions during fielding
•Trips from equipment or movement
•Overarm bowling arm strain

Risk Mitigation

•Controlled bowling speeds with tennis balls
•Clear spacing requirements between activities
•Progressive technique development to prevent injury
•Constant supervision of bowling technique

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for visibility of all bowling activities
•Monitor technique to prevent injury
•Ensure safe equipment handling
•Watch for fatigue in bowling arms

Emergency Procedures

Stop activity immediately, assess injury, appropriate first aid response, contact support if needed