Love them or hate them, trial matches are used the world over to decide the fate of young cricketers.

They are the exams of the cricket world: Do well and you could be on your way to a professional contract. Mess up and... well, let's not think about messing up.

Although it may sound like it, a batting buddy isn't the latest technological aid to your game from PitchVision.

It's when two teammates join forces: The better batsman coaching the weaker one with the aim of improving the tail-enders skill with the blade.

Picture the scene. You are in the field after posting a big score. The opposition look in little danger of being bowled out on a good batting track.

You need wickets to prevent the draw but all the usual ploys are failing.

It's time to get creative; It's time to force the batsman into an error.

Ian Pont makes his return this week, answering a question on fast bowling length. David has rain stopping play and Kevin hits the gym. We also answer your questions on:

The biggest talking point from day one of the 2009 Ashes was Kevin Pietersen's horrible shot selection to get out when well set. This pdf file from The Times explains the shot in all its gory detail.

If such a fine batsman as Pietersen makes mistakes like this, what chance does everyone else have to get it right? The answer is: More chance that you might think.

Is there anyone in cricket with more pressure on them than the players of Australia and England at the start of an Ashes series?

It's certainly far more stress than you or I have experienced as cricketers (unless you happen to be MS Dhoni). However, even club players feel pressure situations: Finals (maybe even on TV), league deciders and even the local derby where you play out your own mini Ashes-style rivalry.

What's worse than having a bad cricket technique?

Chances are you know someone who plays with niggles in the shoulder, hip or back. Chances are it is caused by improper technique. Injury rates are up massively in recent years but it's not because players have stopped trying to bat and bowl with proper technique, it's because their bodies are not letting them.

How often do we hear of top players with ability but without the mental strength to fight through?

To me, this demonstrates how cricket, at every level, can be a game of confidence. Technique, talent and fitness are important, but without the ability to ride success and shrug of failure it's all worthless.

How mentally tough are you and what would you like to learn about to improve it?

As you know, this site is driven by our dedication to making you a better player, coach or both.

It starts with the miCricketCoach pages. Several years worth of free articles, video and audio covering every aspect of improving your game.If you are not already getting the newsletter, you can get it for free every week here.

David reports on another victory and finally nabs a victim while Kevin does his best after being crook all week. We dedicate this week entirely to your questions on cricket coaching this week including: