Alex Edwards - Fast Bowling & Performance Coach | FCCA Cricket Academy

Introduction

Alex Edwards is a former professional cricketer and high-performance coach at FCCA Cricket Academy. With experience in first-class cricket, international development squads, and over 10 years of coaching, Alex specialises in helping young players develop fast bowling skills, batting technique, and performance mindset.

Having played for Sussex County Cricket Club, MCC Young Cricketers, and England Under-19, Alex understands the pathway from junior cricket to professional levels and brings that knowledge into every training session at FCCA.

Professional Playing Career

Alex’s playing career includes representing several high-level cricket organisations, including:

• Sussex County Cricket Club

• England Under-19

• MCC Young Cricketers

• Lancashire Cricket Board

• Leicestershire Development

As a right-arm fast-medium bowler, Alex competed in First Class and List A cricket, developing his skills in professional environments alongside some of the world’s best players.

One of the standout moments of his playing career came when he took 5 wickets for 24 runs against Pakistan A, showcasing his ability to perform against international opposition.

During his time within professional cricket environments, Alex also bowled in training sessions alongside elite players, including Ben Stokes, gaining valuable insights into the preparation and training standards required at the highest level.

Coaching Experience

Alex has over 10 years of coaching experience, working with players across multiple age groups and ability levels.

His coaching focuses on helping players develop strong technical foundations, improved game awareness, and the confidence needed to perform under pressure.

At FCCA, Alex works closely with young cricketers to improve their skills in a structured and supportive environment, helping them build the tools needed to progress in the game.

Coaching Qualifications

Alex combines professional playing experience with strong academic and coaching credentials.

Qualifications include:

• ECB Level 3 Cricket Coach

• ECB Trainer

• Gary Kirsten Cricket Academy Certification

• Sports Science Degree – Loughborough University

Coaching Specialities

Alex specialises in several key areas of cricket development:

Fast Bowling Development

• Improving bowling speed and control

• Seam position and swing bowling

• Run-up rhythm and bowling mechanics

Batting Technique

• Shot selection and timing

• Playing different bowling lines and lengths

• Building strong batting fundamentals

Performance Mindset

• Confidence and match preparation

• Handling pressure situations

• Developing focus and discipline

Coaching at FCCA Cricket Academy

At FCCA Cricket Academy, Alex works with young players in group training sessions, specialist coaching sessions, and holiday camps.

Training sessions focus on:

• Technical skill development

• Game awareness and decision making

• Physical preparation for cricket

• Building confidence and enjoyment of the game

Fast Bowling Coaching Insights from Alex Edwards

Alex regularly shares technical coaching insights to help young cricketers understand the fundamentals of fast bowling.

In this coaching session, Alex explains the key technical foundations of fast bowling, including the correct seam grip, run-up rhythm, and the five key phases that create pace and accuracy.

Fast bowling is one of the most demanding skills in cricket. Many young players focus purely on speed, but the real foundations of pace, movement, and consistency come from strong mechanics and repeatable technique.

In the video below, Alex breaks down the five critical phases of fast bowling:

• The correct seam grip

• A controlled and balanced run-up

• The bound or take-off into the delivery stride

• Back foot contact and the power position

• Front foot bracing to generate pace

• A balanced follow-through to complete the action

These technical details help young bowlers develop better control, more pace, and greater consistency.

 Read the full coaching guide and watch the video here: https://www.fccaltd.co.uk/post/fast-bowling-fundamentals-grip-run-up-the-5-key-phases-for-pace-and-accuracy-alex-edwards

Train with Alex Edwards at FCCA

Players who train with Alex benefit from coaching that combines professional playing experience, modern coaching techniques, and a deep understanding of player development.

If you want to improve your cricket skills and learn from a coach who has experienced professional cricket first-hand, join a training session at FCCA.  View coaching sessions: https://www.fccaltd.co.uk/coaching

FAQ

Who is Alex Edwards?

Alex Edwards is a former professional cricketer who played for Sussex County Cricket Club and England Under-19. He is now a coach at FCCA Cricket Academy, specialising in fast bowling and player development.

What does Alex Edwards, coach?

Alex specialises in fast bowling technique, batting fundamentals, and performance mindset training for young cricketers.

What qualifications does Alex Edwards have?

Alex holds an ECB Level 3 coaching qualification, is an ECB Trainer, has trained with the Gary Kirsten Cricket Academy, and holds a Sports Science degree from Loughborough University.

Can beginners train with Alex Edwards?

Yes. Alex works with players of all levels, from beginners learning the basics to advanced players looking to improve their performance.