Cricket Net Sessions Explained
What is a cricket net session, how do teams use nets for practice, and what do batsmen and bowlers actually work on in the nets before international matches?
A cricket net session is a practice session where batsmen and bowlers work together in a fenced-off practice pitch area ('the nets'). Net sessions are the primary training environment for cricket players at all levels — from club cricket to international tours. They allow batsmen to face live bowling in a controlled environment and bowlers to rehearse deliveries and plans without the pressure of a match.
How Net Sessions Are Structured
- International teams typically schedule 1–2 net sessions before each match day during a tour
- Batsmen rotate through batting lanes, facing specified bowler types in planned sequences
- Bowlers target specific areas of the pitch or work on specific deliveries (slower ball, bouncer, outswing)
- Coaches use video feedback — batting in the nets is filmed from multiple angles for post-session review
- Specialist fielding drills are often conducted alongside the batting/bowling nets
What Players Work On
Net sessions serve different purposes at different stages of a tour. Early in a tour, batsmen work on adapting to local conditions — practising against the specific swing or spin they will face in matches. Before a specific Test, sessions may focus on match scenarios: facing fast bowling on a green pitch, playing spin in dusty conditions. Match-eve sessions are typically shorter and more mental than technical.
The Importance of Throw-Downs
Throw-downs are when a coach or specialist fielder throws balls underarm or overarm to a batsman to practice specific shots — an extra batting drill separate from live bowling. Batting coaches (and increasingly, specialist throwdown coaches from India who can bowl at 120 km/h+ with their arm) allow batsmen to practice specific shots at their own pace. England's use of specialist throwdown coaches from the Indian nets has been one of the most-discussed developments in training in the last decade.
Frequently asked questions
Can fans watch cricket net sessions?
At some international grounds, net sessions before Tests and ODIs are open to the public (or members) for parts of the session. Most international teams, however, hold closed net sessions before matches for tactical confidentiality. The public sessions, when permitted, tend to be during early tour practice days rather than immediately pre-match.
Do all cricketers use nets?
Yes. From junior club cricket to the international arena, nets are the universal practice method. Formats vary — club cricketers may practice in short evening net sessions; international players use indoor and outdoor nets with specialist coaches and video analysis. Even very experienced Test players continue to use nets extensively throughout their careers.