We have all had games we want to forget. Out for a duck, smashed all over the park and looking like the village idiot in the field.

Failure is inevitable because perfection is impossible in cricket. If Bradman couldn't be perfect how can you be?

What you can do is bounce back from your failures as quickly as possible, even if it seems like you will never get another run or wicket, there is always a way out given the right approach.

1. Don't try to be perfect. Mistakes are the way we learn. Be aware that they will come and set some realistic, achievable cricket goals instead.
2. Analyse at the right time. The time to work on technique and fitness is during training, not games. Go to each practice with an aim in mind and leave those aims behind when you leave for the game.
3. Write down the positives. It's easy to analyse failure, but that can get negative. Note down at least 5 things you did right too and review your notes regularly.
4. Relax, refocus. Try and put failures into perspective. A dropped catch or even a bad summer is not life changing, just a pain. Pick yourself up, relax and refocus on the next ball, game or season. You may still be on target to reach your goals despite failures.
5. Have a word with yourself. Use the stop technique to clear out any negative mindset during games. In between cricket matches take some time to visualise success. It sounds a bit wishy-washy but it's proven to work.

In many ways, your ability to put failure behind you is the mark of a highly successful player.

You may be in the face of a terrible run of form or results and it's your ability to keep smiling, remembering your successes and keep trying that makes you stand out from the crowd.