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[Mattycricket123]

I'm going to look like a total douchebag here and someone who is very good but when fielding I simply cannot slide or dive to save the ball has anyone got any tips and drills to do to help both diving and sliding thanks.

[Johnny]

Always slide on your front, not your sides.

[Joe]

Always slide on your front, not your sides.

Why? I always slide on my side and catch ball lower down, makes for clean pickup and easy to get up as well. Just interested to hear why you say this

[legger123]

I agree with Joe here! Its what I do

[Nickauger]

I always go calf to ground opposite leg out straight so I can pick up and push up early to get the ball back in (boundary riding), or front first, can spring off two feet then.

Best thing to do is find a gym with some crash mats and go nuts!

http://www.sportplan.net/drills/Rounders/Ground-Fielding/Diving-Practice-roundersc3.jsp

[Bruce]

I'll slide on my front if stopping the ball close to the boundary, otherwise it's leg slides.
Canterbury fielding trousers help too.

[legger123]

Diving on crash mats is great fun!

[Johnny]

Because that's what the ECB coaches association say.

It's quicker to 'pop up' from, and I think also because you're less likely to damage yourself.

[Nickauger]

Front first is the technically correct way. However, if your tall and cumbersome like me then I like to stay upright unless I'm really stretching out for it, so go down by numbers lol.

[Mattycricket123]

I really am basic when it comes to this so when chasing the ball and sliding do you simply jump and throw yourself to the ball to slide?

[Nickauger]

Yes mate just like a Klinsman, it really is all about timing though, to intercept it.

[Bruce]

When sliding on the legs I'll try and my hip to hit the ground first, then sort of sweep the leg around the ball creating a barrier.
If you are right handed, try and slide on your left side so that the ball is in your right hand to throw the ball in.

[Bruce]

Yes mate just like a Klinsman, it really is all about timing though, to intercept it.

Haha yep, though more luck than judgement sometimes.
Also makes it look better if there's a bit of dew on the grass.

[Mattycricket123]

Thanks everyone think i will be trying this on my own though to avoid embarrassment

[Nickauger]

I would suggest that's a god idea Matty