Tactical periodisation is a holistic training approach that integrates the physical, tactical, technical, and mental aspects of performance rather than training them in isolation. In the context of fast bowling in franchise cricket, this method can be instrumental in developing bowlers who are not only physically fit and technically sound but also tactically astute and mentally resilient.
Anyone with experience in a team environment knows that the neatly formed sequences of periodisation theory rarely fit naturally into the real world- G Tierney
Key Aspects in Fast Bowling
In fast bowling, the ability to make quick, tactical decisions—such as choosing the right delivery based on the match situation—plays a crucial role in success. However, these decisions cannot be effective without the physical ability to execute them, the technical skill to deliver the ball accurately, and the mental toughness to perform under pressure. For instance, when a fast bowler decides to bowl a yorker in the death overs of a T20 match, this decision is tactical. But to successfully execute it, the bowler must have the technical precision to land the ball in the blockhole, the physical endurance to maintain pace, and the psychological composure to handle the pressure.
Defining Key Moments in Fast Bowling
In franchise cricket, fast bowlers encounter several critical moments, such as:
1. Power-play Overs – Attacking with pace and swing to take early wickets. This is what Pacelab terms ‘The initial phase.’
2. Middle Overs – Controlling the run rate and building pressure with disciplined bowling. This is where Pacelab splits the overs into 2 phases as ‘The consolidation phase’ and ‘The momentum phase.’
3. Death Overs – Executing precise and accurate variations like Yorkers and slower balls to limit scoring. This is what Pacelab terms ‘The Finishing phase.’
These moments dictate the tactical approach a bowler should take, with each phase requiring a different blend of physical, technical, and mental preparation.
Breaking Down and Training Key Moments
Once a tactical plan for these moments is established, the next step is to break them down into specific scenarios that can be practiced during training. For example, during death overs, a training drill might involve simulating a scenario where the bowler needs to defend a small total against a strong hitter whilst in a fatigued state following a small bodyweight circuit. This drill would require the bowler to focus on tactical decision-making (selecting the right delivery), technical execution (accurate Yorkers or slower balls), physical conditioning (maintaining speed and control), and mental resilience (handling the pressure of the situation).
Also essential to note stress is stress. Whether cognitive or physical. Training will never fully replicate match day, but we need to find ways of making sure there are no surprises on match days, and we train for every eventuality in a ‘red hot’ environment. Training has no consequences and is pretty ‘easy’ in terms of intensity. Our aim is to make it more specific and transferable in the situations that will happen on game day
How hot is the training sessions. Pressure is pressure “Most of the practice we do is at a different temperature than the game. I’m not talking about degrees fahrenheit or celsius , but rather, the level of emotion involved” @robgray29
Competition is hot. You have pressure, anxiety, anger , frustration etc. The majority of practice is mostly cold. It’s void of any pressure and consequences and lacks the intensity of competition. Match day Practice falls short on all levels, in particular ‘Representative Design’ if pressure is not part of the session. We need to match the emotional context as well as the physical context.
Recent research shows that creating ways to add pressure in training enhances performance and trains players to handle competition pressure. The key message is this. You’ll never recreate match day specifics. The crowd, situational pressure, and neural fatigue are never exactly the same, but any technique to increase pressure can have a similar effect. It doesn’t have to be situationally specific.Â
“There doesn’t seem to be a need for a high level specificity in pressure training” R Gray
It does not need to match exactly what happens on match day. Which is actually impossible to recreate but needs to add global system pressure.
What techniques have I used and you can use?
1. Consequences during and after skill work. Rewards and forfeits are a powerful techniqueÂ
2. Visual constraints during skill work @senaptec
3. Mathematic challenges superset with skills
4. @soma_technologies mental and reaction time challenges We find it easy to challenge the physical capacity but never consider the emotional and cognitive stress. Essential to note on planning.
Never have a HIGH PHYSICAL LOAD and a HIGH COGNITIVE LOAD together. This is the value of HIGH/LOW planning
These are various options to increase the ‘stress/load’ on the body in training. Whatever method used is a matter of choice and what is easiest to implement for coaches.
I’ve implemented every method mentioned and achieved great success.
Structuring the Training Week
In the high-intensity environment of franchise cricket, managing the training load is crucial. Tactical periodisation suggests dividing the training week into distinct phases:
1. Recovery – After a match, focusing on physical and mental recovery.
2. Acquisition Phase – The most intense training phase, focusing on enhancing physical fitness, technical skills, and tactical understanding in an integrated manner.
3. Pre-Game Preparation – Fine-tuning tactics, mental readiness, and ensuring the bowlers are physically fresh for the upcoming match.
The aim is to maintain a consistent level of high performance throughout the season rather than peaking for a single game, which is vital given the packed schedule of franchise cricket.
Tactical periodisation places the tactical intent of the team as the driving force that should shape all preparation- G Tierney
Performance Stabilisation
In franchise cricket, where matches come in quick succession, fast bowlers need to consistently perform at a high level. Tactical periodisation helps stabilise performance by ensuring that training loads are balanced to prevent burnout while maintaining sharpness. This approach ensures that bowlers are not just physically prepared but also tactically and mentally ready to perform consistently across multiple games.
Tactical periodisation requires a significant shift in your approach to programming from what’s commonly promoted in universities- G Tierney
The Future of Coaching in Franchise Cricket
The adoption of tactical periodisation in fast bowling could signal a shift towards more integrated coaching roles. Strength and conditioning coaches, for instance, may need to deepen their understanding of cricket tactics, while bowling coaches might benefit from knowledge of physical conditioning. This integration could lead to more well-rounded fast bowlers who are better prepared for the diverse demands of franchise cricket.
In conclusion, tactical periodisation offers a promising approach to preparing fast bowlers in franchise cricket. By integrating all aspects of performance, this method has the potential to develop bowlers who are tactically sharp, physically robust, technically precise, and mentally tough—key qualities for success in the fast-paced world of franchise cricket.
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