High performance in cricket and sport in general is about far more than technical ability. In this episode of The Demystifying Mental Toughness Podcast, I'm joined by Stuart Barnes, Bowling Coach at Warwickshire County Cricket Club, for the second part of our conversation. Together we explore the unique pressures cricketers face and how coaches and psychologists can work hand in hand to support player growth, confidence, and resilience.

The Player at the Centre

Stuart highlights the importance of a joined-up approach between coaches, psychologists, and teammates, with the athlete always at the centre. Players often need space to talk, offload, and process challenges. Stuart shares how his own journey as a "failed professional cricketer" shaped his empathy and perspective, allowing him to connect with players authentically.

Slowing the Game Down Under Pressure

Cricket is both a team and an individual sport, making the psychological demands unique. Stuart describes how small pauses, two to five seconds between deliveries help bowlers reset, design a plan, and avoid rushing into a threat mindset. He shares practical questions bowlers can ask themselves in pressure moments to regain clarity, confidence, and control.

Handling Selection Pressures

One of the toughest realities in professional cricket is being dropped. Stuart emphasises the value of focusing only on what players can control; fitness, preparation, mindset, and energy in the dressing room. He describes these as the "free stuff" that costs nothing but adds significant value to team culture.

>> Key Takeaways

1. Slow the world down – Use strategies to pause, reset, and regain focus under pressure.
2. Keep growing – There is no standing still; consistent small improvements matter.
3. Build belief through actions – Confidence grows when you fulfil your daily commitments to yourself.

This episode is packed with insights for cricketers, coaches, and parents of young athletes about the importance of mental toughness, supportive environments, and developing confidence from within.

For more on this topic, check out these resources:

• Sports Psychology for Cricket Players

· Ep 293: Stuart Barnes: How Cricket Coaches Build Mental Toughness: High Challenge, High Support

• Ep 115 - Jeremy Snape: Mental Strength to Succeed: Learning Lessons from International Cricket

· Blog Mental Preparation for Bowlers in Cricket

· Blog: Thriving Under Pressure: Mental Toughness Lessons from Cricket Coaching

Connect with Stuart Barnes

· LinkedIn

· Website

Connect with David Charlton

· Sign Up To The Mental Edge

· Join David @ The Sports Psychology Hub

· LinkedIn