A wicket-keeper is an important player on a cricket team, and wicket training is designed to help him improve his efficiency during a match. The wicket-keeper acts similarly to a baseball catcher and has the job of stopping the ball so a batsman is unable to score. Wearing a catcher's glove, the wicket-keeper requires specialized training to excel in the position.
Function
During a cricket game, it is very likely a batsman will swing at a ball and not connect, and the ball will fly freely. A skilled wicket-keeper will be able to catch the ball, getting the batsman out. A wicket-keeper can also gain possession through stumping -- this occurs when a batsman swings and completely misses the ball and the wicket-keeper collects the ball and hits the stump.
Position
The positioning of a wicket-keeper is very important to cricket. The wicket-keeper stands between the wickets or stumps and should be in a crouched stance.
Practice
Wicket-keepers should practice stance and movement. The stance of wicket-keeper involves bending your knees and keeping your back straight. Your body weight should be on the front of your feet. Your hands should be close together and pointed toward the ground. Practice moving your feet and body up and down in order to receive possession of the cricket ball.
Overall Fitness
General fitness is important to wicket training, and it's wise to cross train. You can include running, swimming, cycling and weight training in your routine. Training with a medicine ball can help to tone your arms as well as help you practice a wicket-keeper stance. Maintain the leg stance of a wicket-keeper while performing this exercise. Hold the medicine ball over your head in both of your hands. Bending your elbows, bring the medicine ball behind your neck. Straighten your arms out and repeat. This will help to strengthen the triceps. You can also perform squats to strengthen your quadriceps, which will help with the constant crouching and rising of a cricket match.
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