In this episode of the Cricket Matters podcast, we dive into one of the most overlooked but game-changing elements of batting—your sprint times between the wickets. We’re building on last week’s sprinting episode and getting laser-focused on the exact times you need to hit to become an elite-level runner between the wickets.
You’ll Learn:
- The ideal timings for singles, twos, and threes—critical benchmarks for every aspiring cricketer.
- Why training in both kit and no-kit setups gives a more accurate picture of your game-readiness and sprint performance.
- How professional athletes use exact sprint data to inform their decisions and improve their performance.
- The importance of proper turning techniques and sprinting mechanics for maximizing speed and minimizing lost time.
Key Takeaways:
- Know Your Numbers
Elite cricketers know how fast they can run a single (around 3.1–3.5s), a two (7.1–7.3s), and a three (10.6–10.7s). Knowing your exact times gives you a tactical edge on the pitch. - Train in and out of Kit
Practicing both with and without cricket gear ensures better sprint mechanics and real-game preparedness. Your form changes when wearing full kit, so both environments are vital. - Turning Can Make or Break a Run
Efficient turns, especially off your strong side, can significantly cut down your total time. Bad turns equal lost runs. - Sprint Mechanics Are Foundational
Good sprinting form—strong arms, posture, and leg drive—transfers directly into faster in-game performance. Poor mechanics slow you down, especially under pressure. - Women’s Sprint Data Is Catching Up
While research is sparse, the team provides estimated benchmarks for female cricketers to work towards based on comparative sports science data.
Quotes:
“The best cricketers know how fast they can run a single, a two, and a three.”
“If you don't know your times, you're just guessing—and guessing won't win you matches.”
“Train like a sprinter, even in your pads. Mechanics matter.”
Find James on:
To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com
