Your Pre-Season Cricket Checklist

Here’s a practical pre-season cricket checklist to help you arrive at the first game prepared, confident and match-ready.

1. Check Your Bat Early

Before nets properly begin, make sure your bat is ready to be used.

• Inspect for cracks or edge damage

• Check the handle is secure

• Oil and knock in if required 

• Replace worn grips 

• Make sure the weight and pick-up still suit you

2. Build Bowling Workloads Gradually

Bowling loads should increase steadily through pre-season. Early patience reduces injury risk later on.

• Start with shorter spells and lower intensity

• Focus on rhythm and accuracy first

• Introduce pace and variations gradually

Fast bowlers should allow at least 6–8 weeks to build up fully.

3. Don’t Neglect Fielding

Fielding often decides close games, all season round.

• Reintroduce catching with a hard ball

• Work on throwing technique to prevent injuries

• Improve movement and reaction speed

• Wicketkeepers should break in gloves early

Good fielding preparation shows quickly once matches start.

4. Improve Cricket-Specific Fitness

Cricket fitness is all about repeated efforts rather than constant running.

• Light aerobic work to build a base

• Sprinting and agility drills (running between the wickets)

• Strength work for legs, core and shoulders

• Regular mobility sessions

5. Manage Injuries Before They Manage You

Pre-season is the best time to address ongoing issues.

• Treat small niggles early

• Prioritise shoulder and hamstring strength

• Stretch and mobilise consistently

• Reduce load if something doesn’t feel right

6. Check Your Kit Properly

Avoid last-minute problems by checking equipment early.

• Bat, pads and gloves match-ready

• Helmet safety standard up to date

• Spikes secure

• Whites and coloured kit ready 

• Tape, suncream and essentials stocked

7. Use Nets With Purpose

Pre-season nets should be structured.

• Focus on quality rather than quantity

• Face realistic bowling

• Bowl with a plan

• Practice match scenarios where possible

Aim to reduce surprises when league cricket begins.

Final Pre-Season Check

One week out from the season, you should feel:

• Fresh, not overloaded

• Confident in your kit

• Comfortable with your role

• Ready to compete