One thing I have noticed a lot in cricket is the "you're doing it wrong" culture.

Be it techniques, tactics, or anything between, the easy comment is to explain how someone has got it wrong. It makes you sound intelligent and straight talking. It gets something off your chest. It might even, on the surface, be helpful.

You really only have the best interests at heart of the person you are criticising. You just want to raise the standard.

But does it really?

Even assuming your critique is valid, what can a player do when he knows the flaw? He could go back to the drawing board and start experimenting with some drills. But you and your comments are long gone and he might well have no idea what to do next.

You may have even totally shot his confidence.

Of course, criticism has a place, but not criticism alone. A good critique looks at both the good and bad, and takes a moment to decide what to say (sometimes brevity is better). It takes context into account because tactics and techniques vary in different situations. A really good critique also allows for the person getting the comments to ask questions back.

It also defines what to do next.

Saying "you're doing it wrong, try again" - especially in great detail - is not giving anyone the best chance of success. But taking a moment to think about how to say it, and what you think is best to do next makes a huge pile of difference.

So, next time you are thinking of joining the "doing it wrong" chorus, remember the power you wield and use it wisely.