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This month we turn the spotlight on Ajeet (Aj) Dale, one of our more recent ambassadors.
Aj is an exceptional fast bowler who has made his mark in the world of cricket, representing Gloucestershire in county cricket and the England Lions on the international stage. His journey from a young, cricket-obsessed boy to one of the most promising fast bowlers in England is testament to his dedication, skill, and love for the game.
The early days: How Aj got into cricket
Aj Dale’s passion for cricket was ignited at a young age, growing up in a family where cricket was more than just a sport – it was a way of life. Raised in a South Asian household with deep roots in Indian cricket culture, Aj was surrounded by the game from an early age. Cricket was always on the TV, and playing with his brother and father became a regular pastime. It was clear early on that Aj had a natural aptitude for the game, particularly in throwing and catching, which made cricket his sport of choice.
At just nine years old, Aj’s talent was recognised when he was scouted to play for a local club team, leading to an opportunity to join Surrey County Cricket Club’s youth setup. This marked the beginning of his formal cricket journey.
A promising career
After his stint with Surrey, Aj moved to Hampshire at the age of 15, where he spent six years, including three years as a professional cricketer. These formative years were crucial in shaping his career, providing him with the experience and exposure needed to excel at higher levels.
Three years ago, Aj made the move to Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, where he has continued to develop as a professional player. His consistent performances with Gloucestershire have not only solidified his place in the team but also caught the attention of the national selectors. Recently, Aj achieved a significant milestone by being selected to play for the England Lions, a critical step toward his ultimate goal of representing England at the highest level.
Overcoming challenges
Fast bowling is one of the most physically demanding roles in cricket, requiring tremendous stamina and putting significant strain on the body. Aj has been particularly aware of the impact this has on his feet, legs, and overall physical health. As a fast bowler, Aj experiences immense pressure on his front foot – up to seven to eight times his body weight with each delivery – which can lead to injuries if not managed properly.
Apart from a mild quad strain earlier in the season and a bout of patella tendonitis in his right knee last year, Aj has managed to overcome these issues and stay fit for the demands of professional cricket. This can be put down to his diligent training, his recovery strategies, and the right footwear support.
“With Profeet I can ensure that I have the right insoles because your feet can take quite a battering when you’re running up to bowl. You bowl a lot of deliveries, especially in the longer format of four-day cricket and test cricket. You can bowl up to 120, 150 balls in a day!”
Aj’s approach to fitness
Aj’s training regime is meticulously designed to meet the unique demands of fast bowling. Recognising the strain that fast bowling places on his body, Aj has tailored his gym workouts to focus on exercises that enhance his strength, flexibility, and resilience.
“I always try and make sure if I have gym training and bowling on the same day, there’s at least a few hours break between the two. And if possible, try and make sure I do it on separate days.”
While compound exercises like deadlifts are part of his routine, he also incorporates specialised drills that mimic the physical dynamics of bowling, such as unilateral exercises to strengthen the muscles and joints on one side of the body.
Aj’s approach to fitness extends beyond the gym. He emphasises the importance of maintaining “bowling fitness” throughout the year, even in the off-season. Unlike some bowlers who take a complete break from bowling in the winter, Aj prefers to continue his bowling regime. This, combined with careful management of his gym sessions and ensuring adequate rest between intense workouts, helps him stay in peak condition.
Eyes on the future
For Aj, the ultimate dream is clear: to play for England in international cricket. His recent selection for the England Lions has brought him closer to this goal, offering a glimpse into the world of international cricket and the level of competition it entails. Aj hopes to be part of the England Lions’ winter programme, which includes tours to South Africa and Australia. While no squad has been selected yet, Aj remains focused on performing well in the remainder of the county season to increase his chances of being included.
Despite the pressures of aspiring to higher levels, Aj maintains a grounded perspective, focusing on the present and ensuring that he performs to the best of his abilities with Gloucestershire. He believes that by taking care of his body and honing his skills, the rest will follow naturally.
A partnership with Profeet
Aj’s dedication to his craft and understanding of the importance of foot health make him an ideal ambassador for Profeet. His commitment to ensuring his feet are well-supported for the demands of fast bowling aligns perfectly with Profeet’s mission to provide athletes with customised solutions for optimal performance. Aj’s story is one of hard work, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence – qualities that resonate deeply with Profeet’s values.
As Aj continues his journey toward becoming an international cricket star, Profeet is very excited to support him every step of the way.
Shop online or book a Profeet Signature Fit with Custom Insoles for a truly personalised fit – Call 020 7736 0046 to book.
OUR SERVICE IS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Profeet’s services are by appointment only, please call or book online in advance