Make the most of your pre-season with Owzat-Cricket
It’s the time of year that cricketers around the country have been waiting for. Those months of lamps broken during corridor cricket and getting up at 4am to watch England touring is nearly over. Indoor nets can prepare you to a certain extent, but there is nothing like getting back outside for pre-season training.
And it is so important to make sure you get this preparation right, giving you the best possible chance to hit the ground running when the season does get underway.
Owzat-Cricket are here to help. We spoke to Gavin Young, the retailer's store manager, for advice ahead of pre-season. A talented cricketer in his day, Young has a wealth of experience to call on and offered his tips to making sure you get the best kit without breaking the bank.
Bats
The bat of choice for India's Virat Kohli, and there's a reason the world's best batsman is loyal to this brand. The Genius's destructive middle can take apart any bowling attack and its light and whip-like pick-up make it an essential for any cricketer's kit bag.
Young puts it best: "the Genius is beautifully balanced and delivers a real punch."
Protection
Young describes this Adidas Libro duo as "one of the best-looking pad and glove sets out there." Adidas are a trusted brand with a growing number of professionals donning their logo.
Follow in the footsteps of Jofra Archer and Sam Curran and pack the famous three stripes in your kitbag.
Kookaburra Padded Scuff Sleeves
The abnormally pleasant weather we have recently had confirms you need to be come prepared for all eventualities when the new season gets going. When outdoor fielding practice begins the outfields could well be baked hard, which makes boundary fielding an unappealing activity.
Viewers will have seen Ben Stokes prowling the rope wearing bandages to protect his arms and Kookaburra have created a product specifically for this purpose. "They’re great for fielders sliding around in the outfield, the padding protects your elbows and especially in pre-season you don’t want to be hurting your elbows because of diving," says Young.
Every bowler seems to gain a yard or two of pace when bowling in the nets, and if you’re bowling at your friends you’re going to want to give them some of the short stuff.
"They all think they’re Mark Wood and with outdoor nets often like concrete a chest guard is very necessary." Young explains. Batters will need to find their rhythm again after several months off, so they must be able to practice against the short ball in full confidence they won’t get injured.
Footwear
"With cricket moving back outside after the winter, players should be making sure they have the correct spikes," Young advises.
"The Puma 19.2 shoes are new for 2019 and perfect for athleticism on the field. They give you the stability you need to push for that second run or when in your final bowling stride."
Helmets
"This is Masuri’s latest helmet, it’s got an adjuster on it which makes it perfect for either younger or adult cricketers. It’s a very good price from a very reliable brand.
"Loads of professionals use this model, including Chris Gayle, who wore this exact one during his incredible 162 against England."
Gray-Nicolls Cloud Catcher, Puma 19.2 Cricket Shoes, MRF Genius
Training
When the cricket season comes to a close in September, your hands are so accustomed to the cricket ball they could snaffle any catch that comes your way. However, the winter months soften them up to a point where the simplest chances during pre-season can come with an almighty sting.
"Fielding drills are so important during pre-season and these training aids are brilliant for when you first get outside," Young says.
"The Gray-Nicolls Cloud Catcher really tests fielders. It can smack balls miles up in the air and provides terrific catching practice. It’s very good for hardening the hands after the winter."
In a match situation, gathering the ball is only the first step, and it is shocking to think how many runs are gifted to the opposition as a result of wayward throws.
The Gray-Nicolls Target Stump allows fielders to practice fizzing throws into the wicketkeeper, or even sharpen their skills even more by attempting direct hits with just one stump to aim at.
Used by almost every county and Test playing nation, the Katchet allows coaches to create fast and intense drills.
There is total unpredictability to where the ball will fly, keeping fielders on their toes just like a match situation.
Young was also impressed with the transportable nature of the Katchet. "It’s really easy to put in the club bag and take with you wherever you may be playing," he says.
Bags
All this kit needs to be stored somewhere, and the Kookaburra 2000 Wheelie does just the job. With its heavy duty wheels, it can take a substantial amount of weight across whatever surface you may be dragging it on.
"The Kookaburra is a good size for a great price. Perfect to put all your new kit in," Young says.
To view all these products, and many more, visit www.owzat-cricket.co.uk, call for free on 0800 542 8711, or email info@owzat-cricket.co.uk
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