Getting Comfortable with the Ground: Building the Foundation for Elite Fielding

Fielding in modern cricket has evolved dramatically. Today’s elite fielders resemble parkour athletes or Ninja Warrior contenders. They produce game-changing moments not just through raw athleticism, but through technical control under pressure.

But what truly separates a promising fielder from a world-class one? And how can players develop the physical and mental edge needed to get there?

In this blog, we explore a crucial but often overlooked foundation of elite fielding – getting comfortable with the ground. We break down three core techniques that every serious player should learn: rolling, sliding and diving.

Getting Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

Across clubs and academies, it’s common to find talented batters and bowlers who underperform when pushed outside their fielding comfort zones. Whether it’s diving for a catch or cutting off a boundary at full stretch, many players hesitate – especially when it involves hitting the ground.

Often, fielding confidence stems from early movement experiences. Players exposed to gymnastics, martial arts, rugby or invasion games tend to develop better body awareness and less fear of contact – giving them a natural advantage in ground fielding.

The Ground Game: Why It Matters

Fielding blends physical skill with psychological readiness. Of all its elements, ground work is arguably the most undertrained. These three techniques form the bedrock of confident, effective fielding.

1. Rolling Techniques

Side Roll

Used when a fielder is off-balance during a pick-up. It absorbs impact and allows for a quick return to movement.

Coaching points:

• Reach out in front while staying front-on

• Use forearms and side to absorb impact

• Keep a low centre of mass to roll out cleanly

  
  

Turn Roll

Seen in keepers or square fielders adjusting to late or wide deliveries.

Coaching points:

• Take the ball late and outside your body line

• Use the outside hand to initiate rotation

• The closer your head is to the ball, the more control you’ll have

2. Sliding Techniques

Hip Slide

This is the go-to for efficient pick-up and release when ground conditions allow.

Pre-requisites:A soft surface (wet outfield or matting) and a gradual learning curve

Coaching points:

• Slide past the ball to generate momentum

• Lead leg forms a “4” – contact through hip and thigh

• Speed reduces friction – momentum is key

  
  

Front Slide

An advanced technique, often used by confident fielders willing to make full-body contact. It’s highly effective but underused – even at professional level.

Note: Some female players may avoid this due to discomfort, but with modified drills and progression, it can be safely introduced.

Coaching points:

• Enter low, sprint-start style

• Slide past the ball at pace

• Head up, arms extended – absorb contact through the front of the body

3. Diving Techniques

Diving extends reach and opens up possibilities that footwork alone can’t cover. It’s technical, athletic and often match-defining.

The Purpose of the Dive

Whether making a stop, a forward dive into a slide, or a full-stretch catch, diving gives players that final edge.

Coaching points:

• Lead with head and hands

• Open hips for reach

• Push off powerfully from a stable base

Don’t Forget the Athletic Foundations

Perfect technique means little without physical readiness. Strength, speed and power underpin elite movement. Coaches should build these foundations before expecting players to execute advanced fielding skills under pressure.

Final Thoughts: From Good to Great

Ground fielding isn’t just about falling well – it’s about moving with purpose, recovering fast and playing without hesitation. That takes confidence, coordination and intent.

Whether you’re a player pushing for the next level or a coach shaping young athletes, remember: getting comfortable with the ground starts by being willing to hit it.

🔄 Want to Go Deeper?

Looking to build these techniques into your training or coaching sessions? Get in touch for tailored drills, workshops or breakdowns of elite-level fielding.