Choosing the right cricket coach is a big deal—it can make or break a player’s growth and success.
A great coach isn’t just about teaching the basics of batting, bowling, and fielding. They’re also a mentor, a strategist, and a motivator who can push a player to reach their highest potential.
Whether you’re just starting out and need to learn the fundamentals or you’re a pro refining advanced techniques, having a skilled coach by your side is priceless.
And it’s not just talk—research backs this up.
Studies show that the quality of the coach-athlete relationship has a huge impact on performance and well-being (Jowett, 2017).
But here’s the catch: finding the right coach isn’t easy.
Many players, young and old, run into common coaching problems that stall their progress and keep them from hitting their peak.
One of the biggest challenges? Sorting through the endless coaching styles and qualifications without a clear game plan.
It’s easy to slip up—like picking a coach based on price instead of quality, favoring qualifications over real-world experience, ignoring a coach’s track record, or overlooking whether their personality meshes with yours.
Tackling these issues head-on is key to building a strong player-coach relationship that boosts skills and personal growth.
In this guide—packed with insights from 20+ years in the coaching world—we’ll break down the five biggest mistakes to avoid when searching for a great cricket coach.
Table of Contents
- Mistake #1: Not Defining Clear Cricketing Goals
- Tips for Setting Effective Cricketing Goals
- Mistake #2: Choosing a Coach Based Only on Cost
- How to Assess a Coach’s True Value
- Mistake #3: Overlooking Credentials and Experience
- How to Verify a Coach’s Background
- Mistake #4: Ignoring Coaching Style & Personality Fit
- Why Compatibility Matters
- Mistake #5: Skipping Testimonials & Reviews
- How to Analyze Feedback
- Final Thoughts: How to Find the Right Coach
- Work with James Breese & Cricket Matters
Mistake #1: Not Defining Clear Cricketing Goals
If you want to get better at cricket, you need clear, specific goals.
Well-defined goals act like a roadmap for both you and your coach, keeping training focused and intentional. Whether it’s mastering a batting technique, sharpening your bowling accuracy, or improving fielding agility, each goal should match your needs and ambitions.
Clear goals also help track progress, keep motivation high, and ensure your coach can tailor sessions to your strengths and weaknesses—maximizing every practice.
Tips for Setting Effective Goals
- Assess Your Current Skills – Figure out what you’re good at and where you need work.
- Be Specific – Instead of “get better at batting,” aim for “raise my batting average by 20 runs this season.”
- Use the SMART Method – Goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
- Balance Short & Long-Term Goals – Small wins lead to big achievements.
- Adjust as Needed – Update goals as you improve.
- Visualize Success – Picture yourself hitting those goals—it keeps you driven.
Mistake #2: Picking a Coach Just Because They’re Cheap
Going for the cheapest coach might save money upfront, but it rarely pays off in skill development.
A low-cost coach often means less experience, fewer personalized sessions, and weaker results. On the flip side, a pricier coach usually brings deeper expertise, proven success, and training tailored to your game.
How to Judge a Coach’s Real Value
- Experience & Expertise – Have they played or coached at high levels?
- Coaching Style – Do their methods match how you learn?
- Specializations – Need help with spin bowling or power-hitting? Find a specialist.
- Success Stories – What do other players say about them?
- Personal Attention – Will you get one-on-one time, or are they spread too thin?
- Extra Resources – Do they offer video analysis, fitness plans, or mental training?
- Certifications – Are they committed to staying updated?
Mistake #3: Ignoring Credentials & Experience
A coach’s qualifications and background matter—a lot. Proper certifications mean they’ve been trained to teach effectively, and experience means they’ve handled all kinds of players and situations.
How to Check a Coach’s Background
✔ Ask for certifications (e.g., ECB, CA, etc.).
✔ Look up their coaching history—have they worked with clubs, schools, or pro teams?
✔ Read testimonials and success stories.
✔ Interview them—ask about their coaching philosophy.
✔ Talk to past players for honest feedback.
✔ See if they keep learning (workshops, new certifications).
Mistake #4: Not Considering Coaching Style & Personality Fit
Some coaches are strict and technical; others are laid-back and intuitive. Some rely on data; others go by feel.
You need a coach whose style clicks with yours.
- If you thrive on structure, a disciplined coach might work best.
- If you prefer collaboration, find someone who listens and adapts.
Personality matters too. A coach who motivates you (whether through energy or quiet analysis) will keep you engaged and improving.
How to Test Compatibility
- Try a trial session.
- Ask about their coaching methods.
- Watch them train other players.
- Get feedback from current/former students.
Mistake #5: Not Checking Reviews
Testimonials and reviews give you the real scoop on a coach. They reveal strengths, weaknesses, and whether they deliver results.
How to Analyze Feedback
- Look for detailed comments (not just “great coach!”).
- Check multiple sources (websites, forums, word of mouth).
- Spot patterns—if multiple players mention the same pros/cons, take note.
- Reach out to references for deeper insights.
- Focus on recent reviews—coaching styles can change.
Final Thoughts: How to Find the Right Coach
Picking the right coach isn’t just about skill—it’s about finding someone who gets you and pushes you toward your goals.
Avoid these five mistakes, and you’ll be way ahead in your search. Remember:
✔ Set clear goals.
✔ Value quality over cost.
✔ Verify credentials & experience.
✔ Ensure coaching style fits you.
✔ Check reviews & testimonials.
Every top player has a coach they trust—your journey should be no different.
Work with James Breese & Cricket Matters
At Cricket Matters, we blend technical coaching, fitness, nutrition, and injury prevention—so you’re not just a better player, but a stronger, healthier athlete.
Whether you’re aiming for higher performance, a longer career, or injury recovery, our holistic approach gets results.