Three Muscles Every Cricketer Needs to Release

Cricket Matters - Expert Cricket Coaching, Mindset & Performance Tips

In this episode of The Cricket Matters Podcast, we’re diving into three muscles that every cricketer absolutely must release to perform at their best. We break down what these muscles do, why they get tight, and how you can effectively release them to avoid pain and play better. Whether you’re a bowler, batter, or just battling shoulder stiffness, this one’s for you.

You'll Learn:

• Why the Teres Major, Obliques, and Tensor Fascia Latae (TFL) are crucial for cricketers. These muscles often get overlooked but play a huge role in movement, performance, and pain prevention.
• Foam rolling techniques and manual therapy suggestions to release deep muscular tension. From massage balls to dry needling, we cover methods to help you recover faster.
• Why Rotation is Key for Cricketers. We highlight the chain reaction poor mobility has on your entire performance.
• How Often You Need to Work on These Muscles. We share how to build these practices into your training routine.

Key Takeaways:

• Teres Major Is More Important Than You Think
  This deep shoulder muscle often becomes overactive, leading to restricted rotation and pain. Addressing it can significantly improve shoulder function and throwing mechanics.
• The Obliques Aren’t Just for Aesthetics
  Overactive obliques inhibit trunk rotation, which is essential for batting and bowling. Foam rolling and targeted release techniques are essential for restoring full movement.
• The TFL Plays a Hidden but Powerful Role
  Located at the side of the hip, the TFL helps with hip and knee stability. When tight, it interferes with hip mobility and overall athletic movement.
• Release Equals Performance
  Releasing these muscles improves flexibility, power transfer, and body coordination. It's a non-negotiable for serious cricketers who want to stay injury-free and sharp.
• It’s a Repetitive Process
  These techniques should become a consistent part of your training routine. Long-term gains come from short-term discomfort—lean into it.

Quotes:

“Most people have never done their obliques before, and it hurts like hell—but you’ll thank me later.”

“You can’t just do it once and expect magic—it’s something you have to revisit.”

“Rotation is everything in cricket, and these muscles are usually the reason it’s not happening.”

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

Chapters

1. Why Releasing Muscles Matters (00:00:00)

2. Teres Major: The Underrated Shoulder Fix (00:01:30)

3. Obliques and Their Role in Rotation (00:04:00)

4. Unlocking the TFL and Hips (00:06:00)

5. Why Consistency in Recovery Is Key (00:08:00)