We don’t all play in a team where we have great fielders to support us. A great wicket keeper to take a leg side stumping, a short leg that snatches a half-chance and a pair of good hands in the deep that you know will always take it. Unlike fast bowlers who take a lot more wickets by hitting the stumps or LBWs, spin bowlers rely much more on a good fielding team.

So, what do you do when you bowl spin a not-so-good fielding team. Here are a few tips:

1. Know your fielders. Even in a poor fielding team some guys are better at some things than others. Get your sharp reflex guys up close and your safe hands out in the deep.
2. Watch you team at practise and at warm ups before the game. This way you can identify your fielders’ strengths.
3. If you really do not have good close catchers, do not waste them by putting them close. It might be the correct field but it’s no use if they will never take a catch. Be realistic and put them where they will be worth something.
4. Bowl a straight line with the aim of hitting the stumps or getting LBWs.
5. Make sure you practise your own fielding from your bowling at every practise and that you lead by example.

Remember to never get angry at team mates when they miss-field or drop a catch! No one does that on purpose and all it will do is alienate you in the team and make you lose your own temper and control.

For more tips on how to deal with realistic cricket situation, check out my book Spin Bowling Tips right here on PitchVision Academy.