📖 Overview
Bob Woolmer on Cricket provides comprehensive coaching instruction and technical analysis of cricket techniques from one of the sport's most respected coaches. The book covers batting, bowling, fielding, and wicket-keeping through detailed explanations and photographic sequences.
The text breaks down complex cricket movements and strategies into clear components that both players and coaches can study and implement. Woolmer incorporates scientific principles and biomechanical research to explain the mechanics behind successful cricket techniques.
Mental aspects of cricket performance receive significant attention, with sections on concentration, handling pressure, and match preparation. The book also addresses tactical considerations for different game situations and formats.
As a reference work, this book reflects Woolmer's innovative coaching philosophy that blends traditional cricket wisdom with modern sports science and technology. His systematic approach aims to develop well-rounded cricketers who understand both the technical and psychological elements of the game.
👀 Reviews
Readers rate Woolmer on Cricket highly for its technical detail and comprehensive coaching advice. Players and coaches comment on the book's effectiveness in explaining cricket techniques and training methods through clear diagrams and photos.
Readers appreciate:
- In-depth analysis of cricket skills and strategies
- Scientific approach to coaching and training
- High-quality illustrations demonstrating techniques
- Focus on both basic and advanced concepts
Critical feedback mentions:
- Dense writing style can be hard to digest
- Some sections too technical for casual readers
- Content can feel dated in certain areas
- High price point
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.1/5 (52 ratings)
Amazon: 4.6/5 (32 ratings)
Cricinfo: 4/5 (editorial review)
One club coach noted: "The technical breakdowns helped me revise my entire training program." A club player commented: "Changed how I think about batting technique, though took time to work through all the details."
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Cricket: The Game of Life by Scyld Berry The book examines cricket's evolution through tactical developments, cultural changes, and historical turning points.
The Cricket War by Gideon Haigh A detailed account of Kerry Packer's World Series Cricket chronicles the transformation of professional cricket in the modern era.
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🤔 Interesting facts
🏏 Bob Woolmer coached three international cricket teams: South Africa (1994-1999), Pakistan (2004-2007), and Warwickshire County Cricket Club in England.
🔬 The book pioneered the use of sports science in cricket coaching, introducing concepts like biorhythms and computer analysis that were revolutionary for its time.
📚 Published posthumously in 2008, the book was completed after Woolmer's tragic death during the 2007 Cricket World Cup in Jamaica.
🎯 Woolmer developed the "Woolmer Grip" - a batting technique where the bottom hand is rotated to allow better control during sweep shots and leg-side strokes.
🌟 During his playing career, Bob Woolmer represented England in 19 Test matches and was one of the first cricketers to successfully employ the reverse sweep shot in international cricket.