In this episode, we dig into a topic that’s often overlooked but absolutely essential for in-season performance: protein. We share our own routines and discuss how proper protein intake can make or break your recovery, energy levels, and injury risk throughout the cricket season.

You’ll Learn:

• How protein supports muscle retention, recovery, and overall performance—especially when gym time decreases and game time increases.
• The science-backed formula for determining your daily protein intake based on your body weight and activity level.
• Most players think they’re getting enough protein—but we explain why they’re usually far off and how to fix it.
• How to spot quality protein sources, including options for meat-eaters and vegetarians, plus why “cheap” protein powders could be sabotaging your performance.

Key Takeaways:

• Prioritizing protein curbs hunger and reduces the temptation to grab sugary snacks or energy drinks during long cricket matches.
• During the season, training volume often drops—protein becomes your insurance policy to maintain strength and mass.
• A simple formula of 2g of protein per kg of bodyweight is the sweet spot for most cricketers aiming for performance and recovery.
• Not all protein is created equal. Opt for whole food sources and reputable protein supplements to get the most bang for your buck.
• If calorie tracking isn’t your thing, aim for five palm-sized servings of protein daily to stay on track.

Quotes:

“Cricketers put on weight in-season because they’re not eating to stay full—they’re eating to feel better.”

“If you’re in a deficit or injured, your protein needs go up, not down.”

“High-quality protein isn’t cheap, but it pays off in how you feel and perform.”

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

In this episode of Cricket Matters, we dive into one of the most crucial—and often overlooked—aspects of the game: the mental side of batting. We share the proven six-step mental routine that can help cricketers of all levels improve focus, confidence, and performance at the crease.

You’ll Learn:

• Why mindset separates good players from great ones
  We explore how elite athletes—from cricketers to basketball legends—use mental clarity to gain a competitive edge and perform under pressure.
• How to control nerves and emotions before batting
  Understand the physiological and psychological responses to pressure and how to manage them with intentional actions.
• A breakdown of the two-phase batting mindset routine
  Learn the specifics of the Recover and Refocus phases, including actionable steps like Reset, Reflect, Relax, and Plan, Set, Cue.
• The importance of building personal pre-ball rituals
  Discover how professional athletes develop repeatable routines to stay calm and consistent between deliveries.

Key Takeaways:

• Mental clarity can make or break your innings.
  Losing focus for even a single ball can end your time at the crease, making mindset just as vital as technique.
• The "Recover" phase helps you move on from the previous ball.
  Reset, Reflect, and Relax are designed to process the last delivery and emotionally reset for the next.
• The "Refocus" phase prepares you for what’s next.
  Planning your intent, setting your stance, and using a personal cue helps eliminate distractions and build consistency.
• Personal rituals act as performance anchors.
  Repeating the same physical and mental actions before each ball helps eliminate nervous energy and fosters confidence.
• This mental routine is rooted in research, not guesswork.
  The six steps are supported by psychology and sport science, with parallels in disciplines like baseball, tennis, and basketball.

Quotes:

"The thing that separates the best players from the good players is what goes on between the ears."

"If you can’t learn to switch off, you’ll fatigue—and not just physically, but mentally."

"Top professionals have the same routine ball after ball—it’s what allows them to perform under pressure."

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com

In this episode of Cricket Matters, we get personal. We share firsthand experiences of how physical pain can quietly creep into your technique and sabotage your game without you even noticing. From bruised wrists to locked-up hips, we dive into why ignoring pain is never the answer.

You’ll Learn:

• The subtle ways pain changes your technique: Even a minor wrist injury can shift your grip, leading to poor bat control and unintended shots. Pain doesn't just hurt—it rewires your mechanics.
• Why playing through pain is a long-term risk: Masking discomfort may get you through one match, but it can lead to compensation patterns that permanently alter your technique.
• The importance of proper assessment and treatment: Seeing a physio or sports therapist early can prevent small issues from becoming chronic. DIY fixes aren't always the answer.
• How grip strength can reveal underlying issues: James shares how a simple kettlebell test helped him measure his grip capacity—and discover he wasn’t as recovered as he thought.

Key Takeaways:

• Pain changes how your body moves—often without you knowing it. Your technique suffers silently, and over time, it can become your new normal.
• A minor injury in your hand can derail your batting technique. Something as simple as grip strength being off can lead to mistimed shots and reduced performance.
• Don’t rely on internet fixes—see a professional. Medical advice tailored to your body is always more effective than general YouTube routines.
• Athletes often ignore pain until it disrupts performance. Being proactive is crucial; regular assessments and mobility work should be part of your routine.
• Pain is usually a symptom, not the cause. Dig deeper into movement patterns, posture, and daily habits to find and address the root issue.

Quotes:

“Pain affects everything in your day-to-day life—but especially your performance on game day.”

“Grip strength doesn't lie—if you can't hold a kettlebell, something's wrong.”

“If you're moving like you're wearing concrete boots, it's time to take care of your body.”

Find James on:

• Instagram: @jamesbreese
• Twitter: @_jamesbreese

To learn more about Cricket Matters and download your FREE copy of The High-Performance Handbook, please visit www.cricketmatters.com