The influence of technique and physical capacity on ball release speed in cricket fast-bowling

Abstract

This study examined the relationships between physical capacity, bowling technique and ball speed in high-level cricketers. Kinetic, kinematic and temporal aspects of bowling technique were threedimensionally analysed in 20 fast-bowlers (professional n=4, elite academy n=9 and state premier cricket n=7). Physical capacity measures included 30 m sprint, vertical jump, isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), bench pull and 2 km running time-trial. Correlations revealed technique factors associated with ball speed were; bowling action duration (r=-0.639, p=0.002), run-up velocity (r=0.616, p=0.004), back foot contact (BFC) time (r=-0.608, p=0.004), front foot contact (FFC)-ball release (BR) duration (r=-0.602, p=0.005), delivery stride phase acceleration (r=-0.582, p=0.007), delivery stride duration (r=-0.547, p=0.012), time of peak horizontal braking force (r=-0.538, p=0.014), peak pelvis COM velocity (BFC-BR) (r=0.469, p=0.037) and peak vertical GRF time (r=-0.461, p=0.041). Physical capacities correlated with ball speed were; 10-30 m split (r=-0.554, p=0.011), 30 m sprint (r=-0.482, p=0.031) and IMTP (r=0.471, p=0.036). Stepwise regression showed bowling action duration and 10-30 m split explained 54% (p=0.001) of variation in ball speed. Accordingly, increased ball speed was associated with faster run-ups, shorter BFC times and abrupt application of FFC GRF. Coaches should also consider sprint speed and lower-body strength as important modifiable factors for fast-bowlers.

Kinematic differences between left- and right-handed cricket fast bowlers during the bowling action

“…Fast bowlers and their coaches consistently seek enhanced ball release speeds via more effective biomechanical bowling actions. [1,2] For right-handed bowlers, this action consists of a run up to the bowling crease followed by landing on the right foot (referred to as back foot contact), stepping onto the left foot (front foot contact), and delivering the ball with the right hand (ball release) before following through onto the right foot again (follow through ground contact). The opposite is true for left-handed bowlers.…”