How To Improve Running Between The Wickets In Cricket

Running between the wickets is an essential batting skill that helps players score runs, maintain momentum and put pressure on the fielding team. While hitting boundaries is important, taking quick singles and converting singles into doubles can make a significant difference in a cricket match. Good running requires more than speed. It involves quick reactions, proper footwork, smart decision-making and clear communication between batting partners.

1. Master the Basic Running Technique

A good start can help batters save valuable time. Players should keep their body weight slightly forward, watch the ball carefully and react immediately after judging the shot. Taking short, powerful steps initially helps build acceleration, while natural arm movement improves balance and speed.

Turning at the crease is equally important. Batters should prepare for the turn before reaching the opposite end, lower their body, maintain balance and slide the bat beyond the crease. A quick push-off helps them accelerate towards the other end without wasting time.

2. Improve Communication Between Batting Partners

Poor communication is one of the most common reasons for run-outs. Both batters must understand each other's calls and make decisions quickly.

Common cricket running calls include:

• Yes: Start running immediately.

• No: Stay at your crease.

• Wait: Pause and assess the situation.

• Yes, Two: Complete the first run and turn for another.

• No, No: Stop attempting the second run and return safely.

The batter with the clearest view of the ball should make the call. Players should also practise eye contact and agree on basic signals before the match.

3. Learn to Judge Quick Singles

Taking quick singles requires awareness and good judgement. Batters should consider the ball's direction, the fielder's position, the speed of their partner and the match situation before deciding to run.

Softly played shots into gaps often create opportunities for singles, while poorly judged runs can result in unnecessary run-outs. Players should communicate early and commit fully once the decision is made.

4. Practise Cricket Running Drills

Regular practice improves running speed, coordination and decision-making. Five useful drills include:

• Wicket-to-Wicket Shuttle Runs: Sprint between both creases, slide the bat and return quickly to develop acceleration and turning ability.

• Partner Reaction Sprint: Respond to random Yes, No and Two calls to improve reaction time and communication.

• Target-Based Call and Run: Run towards different fielding zones and practise deciding whether to take one, two or no runs.

• Turn and Go: Practise controlled turns, proper bat placement and quick acceleration.

• Pressure Two-Run Drill: Attempt singles and doubles under time limits to improve decision-making during match situations.

5. Build Fitness for Better Running Performance

Physical fitness plays an important role in running between the wickets. Players should focus on short acceleration sprints, lateral movements and cone-running exercises to improve speed and agility.

Strength exercises such as squats, lunges, split squats and calf raises help develop stronger legs. Core exercises, including planks and dead bugs, improve stability and balance while running and turning. Short sprint intervals and repeated shuttle runs can also help players maintain speed throughout a match.

6. Avoid Common Running Mistakes

Batters should avoid delaying their first movement, running with an upright posture, taking wide turns and looking backwards while sprinting. Poor bat placement and unclear communication can also increase the chances of run-outs. Players should focus on making quick decisions rather than attempting every possible single.

7. Follow a Weekly Practice Routine

A simple three-day practice routine can help players improve consistently.

• Day 1 – Technique: Warm-up, turning practice, shuttle runs and batting movement exercises.

• Day 2 – Decision-Making: Reaction sprints, target-based calls and one- and two-run situations.

• Day 3 – Match Simulation: Pressure running drills, partner communication and timed running exercises.

Take Your Cricket Skills Beyond the Local Ground with BRPL

Improving running between the wickets requires regular practice and real-match experience. Players need opportunities to demonstrate their batting skills, fitness and decision-making under pressure.

The Beyond Reach Premier League (BRPL) is an Indian T10 tennis ball cricket league that provides players with an opportunity to showcase their talent through trials and compete for selection in zonal teams. Players aged 18 to 40 can explore the registration process and take a step towards their cricketing ambitions.

Conclusion

Running between the wickets is not just about speed; it is about teamwork, awareness, technique and confidence. By practising regularly, improving communication and developing physical fitness, batters can take smarter singles, convert opportunities into doubles and reduce unnecessary run-outs. Small improvements in running technique can make a big difference to overall batting performance.

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