Introduction
As junior cricketers learning the tricks and trades of cricket, we as part of the coaching approach to cricket are often told to perform a skill or movement with little explanation of the reasoning behind why we are performing the given skill. A key example of this is learning how to bowl varying types of deliveries such as in-swingers and out-swingers where we are taught to face the rough side of the ball in the direction we want to swing it, when asking the coach why or how the ball swings, a general reply of “it just does” is given. The correct answer is biomechanics or more specifically the Magnus effect which will be discussed in more detail as you begin to unravel the answer to the question that is on everyone’s mind: “What are the biomechanical principles required for a medium pace bowler to be able to bowl in-swing and out-swing?
To answer this question, the information is divided into the following sub-headings which are:
To answer this question, the information is divided into the following sub-headings which are:
- Type of bowling action
- Basic sequence
- Run up
- Pre-delivery stride
- Delivery stride
- Ball release
- Follow through
- The answer
- How can we use this information elsewhere
- References
Type of bowling action
The two main types of bowling actions used in the delivery of swing bowling are a front-on bowling action and a side-on bowling action with further explanation on the differences between the two actions given below.
Side-on action
The side-on bowling technique is characterised by the bowler looking behind the front arm during the delivery stride to sight the target (Ferdinands, R, 2008). The side-on bowing action is also characterised with a shoulder alignment that points down the wicket such that the angle between the wickets and the line joining the shoulders is 180º with rear foot position being parallel to the popping crease as seen in the figure 1below (Bartlett et al, 1996). A low run-up speed is another key characteristic that is associated with the side-on bowling action (Bartlett et al, 1996). (see video below)
Matthew Hoggard (video above) is a prime example of a side-on bowling technique. (Watch from 0 seconds through to 36 seconds)
Figure 1: Side-on bowling action, Source: England Cricket Board (ECB), 2000, “Cricket Coaches manual”, In Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Front-on Action
The front-on technique is characterised by a high run-up speed and a rear foot position that points in the intended direction of ball travel during and after release (Ferdinands, R, 2008). The bowler when delivering using the front-on bowling technique will look down the inside of the bowling arm during delivery stride to sight the target, this causes the bowler’s hips and shoulders to open to an angle exceeding 180º resulting in the bowler facing the batsmen at ball release (Bartlett et al, 1996) A correct front-on bowling technique can be seen in figure 2 and the video below).
Brett Lee (Video above) is a good example of a bowler who bowls with a front-on action (Watch from 0 seconds through to 27 seconds)
Figure 2:Front-On bowling action, Source: England Cricket Board (ECB), 2000, “Cricket Coaches manual”, In Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Basic bowling sequence
The basic sequence to bowling in cricket can be broken down into five key areas: the run up, Pre-delivery stride, delivery stride, ball release and follow through. The effective execution of this sequence will allow the bowler to deliver the ball with speed and swing at a chosen point on the pitch while maintaining a straight bowling arm. The Figure below highlights what the typical sequence of a bowling action looks like (See figure 3 below).
Figure 3: Basic Bowling sequence from left to right the pre-delivery stride, back-foot strike, front-foot strike and ball release, Source: Biddell et al, 1991, “Bowling sequence”, In Ferdinands, R, (2008), http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
The Run up
Newton’s First Law states that “An object will remain at rest or continue to move with constant velocity as long as the net force equals zero” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 44). Newton’s First Law can be applied to the start of the bowling run-up where the run-up commences when the bowler walks or jogs over his marker as the bowler has to provide the force to change the state of the ball from rest to motion. This is achieved by the bowler providing a force that is larger than the inertia present which results in the bowler gradually increasing his running speed on approach to the wicket. The idea of running speed leads onto Newton’s Second Law which states “The acceleration of an object is proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to the mass of the object” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45). For this reason, it is important to find out what the main objective of the run-up within the bowling sequence is?
The main objective of the run-up is still unclear with a common belief being the run-up is used to contribute to the overall ball release speed with the reasoning surrounding this being the faster a body is travelling, the greater the speed obtained when an object is released due to the already existing momentum (Elliot and Foster, 1984). Through the study of fast bowlers average speed’s at the penultimate stride of delivery, it can be concluded that the run-up speed has minimal impact on a bowler’s ball release speed with the average run up speed recorded being 20km/h with Jeff Thompson who perhaps is one of the fastest bowler’s to have played the game of cricket recording a average run-up speed of 13.7km/h during his penultimate stride (Ferdinands, R, 2008). If the run-up speed has minimal impact on the ball release speed then what factors contribute to the overall ball release speed and what role does the run-up play in producing appropriate ball release speed?
Newton’s Third Law States that “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45).
The diagram below highlights the forces and ground reaction forces that are present when the foot contacts the Earth with horizontal and vertical ground reaction forces evident. The Ground reaction forces can be manipulated to aide in the acceleration if the force generated is large enough to overcome the inertia (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45).
The main objective of the run-up is still unclear with a common belief being the run-up is used to contribute to the overall ball release speed with the reasoning surrounding this being the faster a body is travelling, the greater the speed obtained when an object is released due to the already existing momentum (Elliot and Foster, 1984). Through the study of fast bowlers average speed’s at the penultimate stride of delivery, it can be concluded that the run-up speed has minimal impact on a bowler’s ball release speed with the average run up speed recorded being 20km/h with Jeff Thompson who perhaps is one of the fastest bowler’s to have played the game of cricket recording a average run-up speed of 13.7km/h during his penultimate stride (Ferdinands, R, 2008). If the run-up speed has minimal impact on the ball release speed then what factors contribute to the overall ball release speed and what role does the run-up play in producing appropriate ball release speed?
Newton’s Third Law States that “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45).
The diagram below highlights the forces and ground reaction forces that are present when the foot contacts the Earth with horizontal and vertical ground reaction forces evident. The Ground reaction forces can be manipulated to aide in the acceleration if the force generated is large enough to overcome the inertia (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45).
Figure 4: Ground reaction forces that are present, Source: Blazevich, A, (2012), “Sports biomechanics, the basics: Optimising human performance”, A&C Black, Pg 45.
The answer with the assistance of Newton’s Third Law can be found by analysing the sporting discipline of javelin which indicates that the run-up generates ball speed by utilising the ground reaction forces to decelerate the lower body causing the inertia of the upper body to rapidly accelerate the shoulders, hips and bowling arm resulting in appropriate ball release speed being applied (See figure 5 below).
Figure 5: The manipulation of the ground reaction forces to decelerate the lower body and accelerate the upper body within the javelin throw, Source: After E. Deporte & B. van Gheluwe (1988) in Ferdinands, R, (2008), http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
The objective of the run-up within the bowling sequence is to provide a force that is equal or greater to the mass of the object. Newton’s Second Law supports the above statement with bowlers needing to design the length, speed and rhythm of their run up so that they can control the deceleration of their body during pre-delivery stride which will optimise the acceleration of the upper body during delivery stride (Ferdinands, R, 2008). This will result in appropriate ball release speed being applied; however careful consideration has to be taken into account here as the length, speed and rhythm of run-ups will vary from bowler to bowler.
Coaching implication
An important coaching implication then is to individually tailor the run-up to suit the bowler and their technical differences (Ferdinands, R, 2008). An example of this is a bowler with a side-on action will typically have a slower run-up speed than a bowler with a front-on action so the length, speed and rhythm of the side-on bowler will display a large difference to a run up approach of a front-on bowler (Elliot & Foster, 1984).
Coaching implication
An important coaching implication then is to individually tailor the run-up to suit the bowler and their technical differences (Ferdinands, R, 2008). An example of this is a bowler with a side-on action will typically have a slower run-up speed than a bowler with a front-on action so the length, speed and rhythm of the side-on bowler will display a large difference to a run up approach of a front-on bowler (Elliot & Foster, 1984).
Pre-delivery stride
The pre-delivery stride which separates the run-up from the delivery stride starts for a right-handed bowler with a leap off of the left foot and is completed as the bowler lands on their right foot (back foot) (MCC, 2010). During the leap, there is an initial trunk rotation and extension away from the intended direction of the ball causing an impulse-momentum relationship which results in a braking effect being applied to the trunk (Ferdinands, R, 2008).
The question that you are asking now is why do we apply a braking force?
The answer to this question lies within Newton’s Third Law, which states that “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45). This can be applied to the trunk rotation and extension during pre-delivery stride as the braking force away from the intended direction of ball travel enables the trunk to act like a spring with the increasing pressure placed on the muscles and tendons within the trunk area causing a propulsive force once the potential energy is released (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 57).
Coaching Implication
A coaching implication that must be considered during this phase is the difference between the front-on and side-on bowling actions with coaches needing to understand that side-on bowlers will point their shoulder down the wicket with the right foot passing in front of the left before landing parallel to the bowling crease. The front-on bowler is not required to make this adjustment during the pre-delivery stride as the bowler is already facing straight down the wicket resulting in the front-on bowler’s right foot landing on or behind the popping crease (Bartlett et al, 1996).
The question that you are asking now is why do we apply a braking force?
The answer to this question lies within Newton’s Third Law, which states that “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 45). This can be applied to the trunk rotation and extension during pre-delivery stride as the braking force away from the intended direction of ball travel enables the trunk to act like a spring with the increasing pressure placed on the muscles and tendons within the trunk area causing a propulsive force once the potential energy is released (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 57).
Coaching Implication
A coaching implication that must be considered during this phase is the difference between the front-on and side-on bowling actions with coaches needing to understand that side-on bowlers will point their shoulder down the wicket with the right foot passing in front of the left before landing parallel to the bowling crease. The front-on bowler is not required to make this adjustment during the pre-delivery stride as the bowler is already facing straight down the wicket resulting in the front-on bowler’s right foot landing on or behind the popping crease (Bartlett et al, 1996).
Delivery stride
The delivery stride within the bowling sequence can be broken down into three key phases with the back foot strike initiating the start of the delivery stride, followed by the front-strike which sees the summation of forces shifted predominantly into an acceleration phase leading into final phase of the delivery stride, ball release (Bartlett et al, 1996).
At the start of the delivery stride, the bowler’s weight is distributed on the previously planted back foot with the momentum of the body leaning away from the batsmen (Bartlett et al, 1996). This leaning back of the trunk is similar to that observed in some styles of javelin throwing and serves as the purpose of increasing the acceleration path of the cricket ball (Bartlett & Best, 1988). The video below highlights the trunk extension and rotation away from the intended direction that within the field of javelin.
At the start of the delivery stride, the bowler’s weight is distributed on the previously planted back foot with the momentum of the body leaning away from the batsmen (Bartlett et al, 1996). This leaning back of the trunk is similar to that observed in some styles of javelin throwing and serves as the purpose of increasing the acceleration path of the cricket ball (Bartlett & Best, 1988). The video below highlights the trunk extension and rotation away from the intended direction that within the field of javelin.
The video (above) highlights the extension and rotation away from the intended direction of travel within the discipline of javelin
(watch from 0 seconds to 14 seconds)
(watch from 0 seconds to 14 seconds)
Examine the photos below and determine the importance of a stable base of support for the back foot during contact? Analyse the effect that a stable back foot has on the summation of forces?
Bowler A
Bowler B
Figure 6: Centre of Mass during back foot strike, Source: Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
It is evident through analysing the two photos of the varying back-foot strikes (above) that Bowler B has a larger base of support running through his foot region while Bowler A has a smaller base of support running through the foot region. If we draw a line through the centre of the back foot, we can start to see the impact that a stable back foot has on the overall summation of forces with bowler A able to maintain an upright trunk and torso position due to the instability caused by the foot (Hurrion, P & Harmer, J, 2004) When analysing Bowler B, a stable back foot can be observed which in turn produces a large braking force being applied to the rest of the body which results in a large loss of momentum due to the back foot having to wait for the torso to pass in front of the base of support. This results in a longer period of time being spent in the back foot strike phase (Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004). It is therefore the purpose of the back foot to manipulate the ground reaction forces to continue the acceleration of the action so the delivery stride can be fast and efficient. This can be achieved by the back foot striking the ground in a mid- front foot position which promotes the instability of the back foot at contact point resulting in the bowler being able to create a fast and effective transition from back foot to front foot strike through spending as little time as possible in the back-foot strike phase (Hurrion. P, & Harmer. J, 2004).
Following the back foot strike phase is the front foot strike phase which involves the front foot striking the ground in a position that leaves part of the front foot behind the popping crease (MCC, 2010). During the initial front foot contact, forces up to nine times the bowler’s bodyweight can be experienced with the anterior and posterior braking forces continuing at 2-3 times a person’s bodyweight (Mason et al, 1989). This ground reaction force results in a large amount of stress being placed on the bowler’s body (Bartlett, R et al, 1996). This leads us to inquire into how we can manipulate the lower body to utilise the large amounts of ground reaction forces that are present during front foot strike?
The answer to this question can be found by examining how a javelin thrower obtains the required force to throw a javelin. The delivery stride within the javelin throw utilises the ground reaction forces by creating a stable base of support within the front foot allowing for a braking force to be applied to the lower body, which in turn accelerates the upper body (Ferdinands, R, 2008). To aide in the absorption and utilisation of the ground reaction forces, the front knee provides an important pivot point which allows for the upper body to be catapulted towards the intended direction of ball release (refer to figure 7).
Following the back foot strike phase is the front foot strike phase which involves the front foot striking the ground in a position that leaves part of the front foot behind the popping crease (MCC, 2010). During the initial front foot contact, forces up to nine times the bowler’s bodyweight can be experienced with the anterior and posterior braking forces continuing at 2-3 times a person’s bodyweight (Mason et al, 1989). This ground reaction force results in a large amount of stress being placed on the bowler’s body (Bartlett, R et al, 1996). This leads us to inquire into how we can manipulate the lower body to utilise the large amounts of ground reaction forces that are present during front foot strike?
The answer to this question can be found by examining how a javelin thrower obtains the required force to throw a javelin. The delivery stride within the javelin throw utilises the ground reaction forces by creating a stable base of support within the front foot allowing for a braking force to be applied to the lower body, which in turn accelerates the upper body (Ferdinands, R, 2008). To aide in the absorption and utilisation of the ground reaction forces, the front knee provides an important pivot point which allows for the upper body to be catapulted towards the intended direction of ball release (refer to figure 7).
Figure 7: The manipulation of the ground reaction forces to decelerate the lower body and accelerate the upper body within the javelin throw, Source: After E. Deporte & B. van Gheluwe (1988) in Ferdinands, R, (2008), http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
After analysing the information above, we are able to gauge a basic understanding of the role that the front knee plays in the absorption and utilisation of forces. This leads to the next question of what is the optimal knee angle during the delivery stride and why is this angle beneficial to the bowler?
The optimal front knee technique sees the bowler’s front knee slightly flex (10°) during the initial front foot contact phase before extending 10° to a near straight leg position (Bartlett et al, 1996). This technique helps reduce the peak impact forces that are observed when front foot contact is made, which in turn reduces the stress placed on the lower back during the delivery stride (Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004). The extension following the flexion phase at front foot contact allows for the lower limbs to generate a large amount of muscular force allowing for a more upright trunk position, which in turn allows for extra swing and bounce to be achieved due to an increase in the height of ball release (Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004).
It is evident through examining the Information above that a ground reaction force can be used to rapidly decelerate and accelerate certain parts of the body by applying braking and propulsive forces. The following section will analyse how the braking and propulsive forces contribute to the production of an efficient and effective bowling action.
A key factor that contributes to the production of an efficient and effective bowling action is the role of the trunk within the bowling action. It has already been stated above that at the end of the pre-delivery stride, the trunk extends and rotates away from the intended direction of ball travel (Ferdinands, R, 2008). Once the bowler enters the delivery stride, a spring–like effect occurs where the previously stored potential energy from the pre-delivery stride is released now as kinetic energy resulting in the trunk beginning to rotate and flex forwards pulling the bowling arm with it (Ferdinands, R, 2008). As the trunk nears the end of its range of motion, Newton’s Third Law comes into effect as there is a braking force applied to the trunk region which creates an equal and opposite force resulting in the acceleration of the bowling arm (Ferndinands, R, 2008). It must be noted that the degree of trunk flexion will be dependent on the type of action the bowler uses. A side-on bowler will display larger degrees of trunk flexion than a front-on bowler due to the fact that the side-on bowler has to generate the majority of their ball release speed during the trunk flexion and braking stage (Ferdinands, R, 2008). This is different to the front-on bowler who is able to utilise the run-up more effectively meaning less force has to be applied for the same results during the trunk flexion and braking stage (Ferdinands, R, 2008). From the information provided above, it is evident that the flexion of the trunk and resulting braking force that is applied to the trunk not only contributes to a greater ball release speed, but allows for the generation of rhythm and fluidity within the bowling action (Bartlett et al, 1996). The information above has allowed us to understand the role the trunk plays in the generation of an effective and efficient bowling action. This leads to the next section which will explore the effect that the bowling and non-bowling arm have on the generation of an effective and efficient bowling action.
The optimal front knee technique sees the bowler’s front knee slightly flex (10°) during the initial front foot contact phase before extending 10° to a near straight leg position (Bartlett et al, 1996). This technique helps reduce the peak impact forces that are observed when front foot contact is made, which in turn reduces the stress placed on the lower back during the delivery stride (Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004). The extension following the flexion phase at front foot contact allows for the lower limbs to generate a large amount of muscular force allowing for a more upright trunk position, which in turn allows for extra swing and bounce to be achieved due to an increase in the height of ball release (Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004).
It is evident through examining the Information above that a ground reaction force can be used to rapidly decelerate and accelerate certain parts of the body by applying braking and propulsive forces. The following section will analyse how the braking and propulsive forces contribute to the production of an efficient and effective bowling action.
A key factor that contributes to the production of an efficient and effective bowling action is the role of the trunk within the bowling action. It has already been stated above that at the end of the pre-delivery stride, the trunk extends and rotates away from the intended direction of ball travel (Ferdinands, R, 2008). Once the bowler enters the delivery stride, a spring–like effect occurs where the previously stored potential energy from the pre-delivery stride is released now as kinetic energy resulting in the trunk beginning to rotate and flex forwards pulling the bowling arm with it (Ferdinands, R, 2008). As the trunk nears the end of its range of motion, Newton’s Third Law comes into effect as there is a braking force applied to the trunk region which creates an equal and opposite force resulting in the acceleration of the bowling arm (Ferndinands, R, 2008). It must be noted that the degree of trunk flexion will be dependent on the type of action the bowler uses. A side-on bowler will display larger degrees of trunk flexion than a front-on bowler due to the fact that the side-on bowler has to generate the majority of their ball release speed during the trunk flexion and braking stage (Ferdinands, R, 2008). This is different to the front-on bowler who is able to utilise the run-up more effectively meaning less force has to be applied for the same results during the trunk flexion and braking stage (Ferdinands, R, 2008). From the information provided above, it is evident that the flexion of the trunk and resulting braking force that is applied to the trunk not only contributes to a greater ball release speed, but allows for the generation of rhythm and fluidity within the bowling action (Bartlett et al, 1996). The information above has allowed us to understand the role the trunk plays in the generation of an effective and efficient bowling action. This leads to the next section which will explore the effect that the bowling and non-bowling arm have on the generation of an effective and efficient bowling action.
Ball Release
Elliott and Foster (1989) stated that the non-bowling arm should be almost vertical and placed such that the bowler can look over the outside of the arm at the batsman before front foot strike for a side-on technique and inside the front arm for a front-on technique. Ferdinands (2005) disagrees with Elliot and Foster’s (1989) idea that the non-bowling arm should be vertical as Ferdinand’s believes that the non-bowling arm should start in position A (see figure 8 below) and be pulled in towards the trunk so that the anti-clockwise torques that are present are placed on the non-bowling arm.
Figure 8: Change of the centre of Gravity in delivery stride of cricket bowling action, Source: Ferdinands, R.E.D, 2008, “Biomechanics and the art of bowling”, Coachesinfo.com: information and education for coaches, http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
This will allow for the centre of gravity of the bowler to be shifted forward allowing for the hips to more easily rotate the trunk during the delivery stride (Refer to figure 8). This will result in greater ball release speed and fluency of the bowling action due to the increased forward momentum that has been utilised (Ferdinand, R, 2005). It is important that the pulling in action of the non-bowling arm is stopped as soon as the braking motion of the trunk is initiated with the non-bowling arm being thrusted down to the left-hand side in conjunction with the landing of the front leg (Tyson, 1976: Elliot & Foster, 1989). This allows for the flexion and rotation of the trunk and bowling arm to occur resulting in a fluent and effective action being achieved. This leads to the next question of are there any laws in place that may restrict how the bowler delivers the ball from the hand?
Figure 8: Change of the centre of Gravity in delivery stride of cricket bowling action, Source: Ferdinands, R.E.D, 2008, “Biomechanics and the art of bowling”, Coachesinfo.com: information and education for coaches, http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
The MCC (2010) states that a ball is deemed to be classed as an illegal delivery (No ball) if the ball is deemed to have being thrown during the delivery phase. The MCC also states that “the ball is deemed to be thrown if bowling arm is straightened during any portion of the delivery swing which directly precedes the ball leaving the bowler’s hand”. This law however allows for the movement of flexion and extension of the wrist and fingers during the bowling action. This leads to the question of how can the bowler manipulate the bowling arm to achieve appropriate ball release speed and swing?
The above question can be easily answered through looking at the role that the kinetic chain and the angle of release plays in aiding the production of the optimal bowling action. The kinetic chain can be defined as the complex co-ordination of individual movements about several joints at the same time with kinetic chain movements being able to be classified as either a push-like movement or a throw-like movement (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 196). For the analysis of the bowling action, we will look at the throw-like movement pattern which involves the movement of the joints sequentially or one after the other (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pp 198-199). The delivery stride within the bowling action is a good example of a throw-like pattern with the most proximal segment within the action (the trunk) being accelerated initially before a braking a force is applied to the trunk region. This braking force and Newton’s Third Law allows for the transfer of energy sequentially from the most proximal point to the most distal point (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pg 202). Figure 9 (below) displays the kinetic chain sequence that occurs within the delivery stride of the bowling action.
Figure 9: Kinetic Chain model during the delivery stride
Coaching implication
An implication for coaches within the delivery stride and ball release section is for an effective and efficient bowling action to be achieved, the bowler must develop a bowling action which allows for the effective summation of sequential forces to be transferred from the proximal to distal areas with a minimal amount of effort.
It is also important to take into account the role that the angle of release plays in the production of an efficient bowling action with the first area of examination being the optimal bowling arm angle in relation to the trunk with Davis and Blanksby (1976) finding that the ball should be released at an angle of 158º relative to the trunk. Davis and Blanksby (1976) believe this is the optimal angle of release as releasing the ball at an angle less than 158º would result in greater height, swing and ball release speed being achieved due to the decrease in horizontal velocity that is able to be attained. Releasing the ball at an angle that is greater than 158º would result in the effective summation of segmental velocities not occurring due to the effective swing of the arm being negated (Davis & Blanksby, 1976). It is evident from the information provided above that the angle of release plays an important role in determining the height and length of the ball as well as aiding in the production of ball speed.
The data provided indicates that bowlers should aim for a front arm to trunk angle of 158º, as this will allow for the largest amount of height, swing and ball release speed to be gained given that all other ball factors are kept constant. The coach can monitor the angle of release and give the bowler relevant feedback in regards to the angle that is being achieved and how it could be increased or decreased to allow for the generation of a more effective and efficient bowling action to be produced.
Watch the video clips below and brainstorm what the bowler did to deceive the batsmen into playing the wrong shot?
An implication for coaches within the delivery stride and ball release section is for an effective and efficient bowling action to be achieved, the bowler must develop a bowling action which allows for the effective summation of sequential forces to be transferred from the proximal to distal areas with a minimal amount of effort.
It is also important to take into account the role that the angle of release plays in the production of an efficient bowling action with the first area of examination being the optimal bowling arm angle in relation to the trunk with Davis and Blanksby (1976) finding that the ball should be released at an angle of 158º relative to the trunk. Davis and Blanksby (1976) believe this is the optimal angle of release as releasing the ball at an angle less than 158º would result in greater height, swing and ball release speed being achieved due to the decrease in horizontal velocity that is able to be attained. Releasing the ball at an angle that is greater than 158º would result in the effective summation of segmental velocities not occurring due to the effective swing of the arm being negated (Davis & Blanksby, 1976). It is evident from the information provided above that the angle of release plays an important role in determining the height and length of the ball as well as aiding in the production of ball speed.
The data provided indicates that bowlers should aim for a front arm to trunk angle of 158º, as this will allow for the largest amount of height, swing and ball release speed to be gained given that all other ball factors are kept constant. The coach can monitor the angle of release and give the bowler relevant feedback in regards to the angle that is being achieved and how it could be increased or decreased to allow for the generation of a more effective and efficient bowling action to be produced.
Watch the video clips below and brainstorm what the bowler did to deceive the batsmen into playing the wrong shot?
The video (above) is a compilation of Nathan Bracken's wickets throughout his career, the question remains how did he decieve opposition batsmen?
The video (above) is a compilation of a number of deliveries bowled by James Anderson (watch from the 10 seconds to 1:06)
When observing bowlers like James Anderson and Nathan Bracken, it is evident that these bowlers are able to deceive the batsmen by swinging the ball into and away from the batsmen at will which results in either poor shot selection or the poor execution of a shot by the batsmen. The video below explains the science behind the art of swing bowling by using the biomechanical principle of the Magnus Effect.
The video (above) explains the Magnus force in relation to how it affects a cricket ball (watch from 0 seconds to 1:54)
What is Out-swing?
Out-swing can be defined as the movement of the ball through the air away from a right handed batsmen. Outswing can be generated by one of two ways:
- The bowler holds the seam straight up and down with the rough side of the ball pointing towards the offside (Mehta, R, 2005).
- The seam of the ball is held at a slight angle (20 º) facing towards the fielding position of first or second slip (Mehta, R, 2005).
The video (above) is an example of out-swing where the ball moves away from a right-handed batsmen, the blower is Jaque Kallis
(watch from 0 seconds to 27 seconds)
(watch from 0 seconds to 27 seconds)
What is In-swing?
In-Swing can be defined as the movement of the ball through the air towards a right-handed batsman. In-Swing can be generated by one of two ways:
1. The bowler holds the seam straight up and down with the shiny side of the ball pointing towards the leg side (Mehta, R, 2005).
2. The seam of the ball is held at a slight angle (20 º) facing towards the fielding position of fine leg (Mehta, R, 2005).
The following video (below) demonstrates what an In-swing delivery looks like.
1. The bowler holds the seam straight up and down with the shiny side of the ball pointing towards the leg side (Mehta, R, 2005).
2. The seam of the ball is held at a slight angle (20 º) facing towards the fielding position of fine leg (Mehta, R, 2005).
The following video (below) demonstrates what an In-swing delivery looks like.
The video (above) is a good example of an In-swing delivery which moves into a right-handed batsmen, the bowler is Brett Lee.
(watch from 0-17 seconds).
(watch from 0-17 seconds).
By the Bowler knowing how the Magnus force works and what side of the ball is the laminar (Smooth) and Turbulent (Rough) side, the bowler is able to understand how to generate out-swing or in-swing. This is in turn allows for the bowler to deceive the batsmen with a larger variety of deliveries creating uncertainty and doubt within the batsmen’s mind. This leads to the question of how can a bowler manipulate his body and the cricket ball to achieve the optimal amount of swing?
For a bowler to achieve the optimal amount of swing, he has to ensure that a turbulent and laminar effect is created. The bowler and his fielders can ensure this is done by shining only one side of the ball and allowing for the other side to become rough (Mehta, R, 2005). The optimal ball release speed suggested by Mehta (2005) to obtain the maximum effect of swing is said to 107.83km, with Mehta also suggesting a seam angle of 20 º to obtain the maximum side force. To achieve optimal levels of swing, Davis and Blanksby (1976) suggested extending the hand at the wrist as far as possible and then rapidly flexing the fingers and hand just before the release of the ball allows with optimal angle of wrist flexion varying between 17º and 24 º. Mehta (2005) supports Davis and Blanksby (1976) statement with the wrist and fingers responsible for imparting backspin on the ball upon release in order to conserve the angular momentum and increase the stability of the seam, which in turn allows for more swing to be generated and the possibility of seam to occur. With the knowledge of how to swing the ball now understood, what role does the follow through have in the whole bowling sequence and how does this relate to linear motion?
For a bowler to achieve the optimal amount of swing, he has to ensure that a turbulent and laminar effect is created. The bowler and his fielders can ensure this is done by shining only one side of the ball and allowing for the other side to become rough (Mehta, R, 2005). The optimal ball release speed suggested by Mehta (2005) to obtain the maximum effect of swing is said to 107.83km, with Mehta also suggesting a seam angle of 20 º to obtain the maximum side force. To achieve optimal levels of swing, Davis and Blanksby (1976) suggested extending the hand at the wrist as far as possible and then rapidly flexing the fingers and hand just before the release of the ball allows with optimal angle of wrist flexion varying between 17º and 24 º. Mehta (2005) supports Davis and Blanksby (1976) statement with the wrist and fingers responsible for imparting backspin on the ball upon release in order to conserve the angular momentum and increase the stability of the seam, which in turn allows for more swing to be generated and the possibility of seam to occur. With the knowledge of how to swing the ball now understood, what role does the follow through have in the whole bowling sequence and how does this relate to linear motion?
Follow Through
Foster (1989) suggested that the bowler should ensure that the bowling arm follows through down the outside of the left thigh (for a right-handed bowler) with the bowling arm almost brushing the ground. Tyson (1976) suggests that the first stride of the follow-through should be behind the line of the ball before running off the pitch with the second and third stride. Hurrion (2004) states that the bowler during follow through should be aligned with the intended direction of ball travel which is generally off stump, this is made easier if the run-up, pre-delivery stride and delivery stride follow a straight line. The sequence of images in figure 10 (below) demonstrate the effective alignment of the run-up, pre-delivery stride and delivery stride which in turn allows for the first stride of the follow through to be aiming in a straight line at the intended target (Hurrion, P, 2005).
Figure 10: Allan Donald is a prime example of effective alignment during the run-up, pre-delivery phase, delivery phase, ball release and follow through, Source: Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Through the General alignment of the bowling sequence following a linear path, there is a less likely chance of injury due to the reduction on the rotation of the upper and lower body in different directions (Ferdinands, R, 2008). Through using Newton’s Third Law which states “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction” we are effectively able to sum up that the follow through should be as long as needed to slow down the body without exerting any sudden forces which can cause injury and minimise the effectiveness of the action (Blazevich, A, 2012, Pp 45-6).
The Answer
The biomechanical principles that are required for a medium pace bowler to bowl in-swing and out-swing are Newton’s First Law which allows the bowler to start his run up, maintain a constant velocity throughout his run up and then allows for the bowling action to come to rest. Newton’s Second Law allows for the bowler to understand how to achieve maximum efficiency within his run-up through understanding the force required to generate the optimum amount of acceleration (113km). Newton’s Third Law and the Impulse-Momentum relationship exists within the bowling sequence by allowing the bowler to understand how the manipulation of a braking and propulsive force can be used to generate ball release speed with the least amount of effort allowing for the bowler to bowl a greater number of overs under minimal strain. It is evident within the bowling sequence that the bowler can manipulate the base of support to increase or decrease his stability within the bowling action to prevent injury and increase or decrease ball release speed. The biomechanical principle of linear motion allows for the bowler to understand the importance of maintaining a linear path throughout the bowling sequence to increase the summation of forces and eventual ball release speed, as well as prevent injuries from occurring due to the unnecessary rotation of the body during the bowling sequence. The kinetic chain allows for the sequential acceleration of the trunk, torso and limbs during the bowling action resulting in a fluent and effective action being produced which allows the bowler to generate greater height, ball release speed and swing. The kinetic chain also assists the bowler in generating the optimal angular momentum and angle of release particularly during the ball release stage where braking and propulsive forces are applied to the proximal areas allowing for the distal areas such as the wrist and fingers to achieve greater height and acceleration. This in turn results in the generation of more swing, speed and height for the bowler. Through the bowler understanding the influence that the Magnus Force has on the cricket ball, the bowler is able to understand how to swing the ball into and away from the batsmen, which in turn allows for the bowler to be unpredictable to the batsmen, which in turn could lead to the poor execution of the selected batting stroke. It is evident that the understanding and mastery of the biomechanical principles above will lead to the efficient and effective bowling delivery being produced. It is the role of the coach to understand the above biomechanical principles and be able to express and apply these principles to an athlete’s chosen sport to maximise the effectiveness and efficiency of the chosen skill sequence while minimising the chance of injury occurring, which is ultimately the role of the coach. This leads onto the final question of how else can this information be used?
How else can I use this information?
By understanding the biomechanical principles of a chosen skill or sport, coaches and athletes are able to develop and constantly analyse the most efficient and effective technique that is biomechanically possible. The biomechanics within a chosen skill, sequence or sport can easily be transferred and utilised in a variety of other sports with the cricket bowling action a prime example of transference between skills and sports that is available. The biomechanics behind the javelin run-up and summation of forces is very similar to that of the cricket bowling action so athletes and coaches within the discipline of javelin are able to analyse and transfer the information that is provided in the run-up section of the blog and apply the biomechanics to their skill to obtain the most effective and efficient javelin throw. The Magnus effect is another example of the transference of skill between sports with baseball coaches and athletes able to analyse the biomechanics and ideal conditions that the Magnus effect operates under in cricket and then apply it to baseball to create new variations of balls. An example of the transference between cricket and baseball can be seen with the development of the scuff ball, which has been seen to swing a greater distance than the stock ball and uses the same laminar and turbulent principle as the cricket ball does. For the continual progression of biomechanics within sport, athletes and coaches have to analyse their sport and skill sequence in depth to determine the most efficient and effective way to execute a chosen skill. It is then the coaches or teachers role to educate the athlete or student into how to understand the biomechanical principles that need to be master within a skill. The understanding of the biomechanical principles has the ability to lead to the successful execution of a skill and ultimately the production of athletes who possess greater skills within their chosen discipline as well as an understanding into the process required to further enhance their skills as a professional athlete.
References
1veritasium, 2012, January, 24th, “How to curve a baseball or swing a cricket ball”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t-3jnOIJg4k
After E. Deporte & B. van Gheluwe (1988) in G. de Groot et al. (eds) Biomechanics XI B, Free University Press, Amsterdam, Pp 575-81.
AussieSportUploader, 2012, January, 22nd, “*BEAUTY* Hoggard Bowls Langer 1st Ball (WACA Test)”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5RZr7r4RkM
Bartlett, R.M, & Best, R.J, (1988), “The biomechanics of javelin throwing: A review”, Journal of Sports Sciences, 6, Pp 1-38.
Bartlett, R., Stockill, N., Elliott, B., & Burnett, A. (1996). The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review. Journal of Sports Sciences, 14(5), Pp 403-424.
Bilal Baig, 2012, November, 29th, “Brett Lee Bowling Action (super slow mo)”Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYBVaxa8oI8
Blazevich, A, (2012), “Sports biomechanics, the basics: Optimising human performance”, A&C Black, Pp 44-202.
Bobby Nic, 2012, Novemeber, 22nd, “Ricky Ponting bowled Adelaide 22/11/2012”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaXB759NfN0
Davis, K, & Blanksby, B, (1976), “A cinematographical analysis of fast bowling in cricket”, Australian Journal for Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 71, Pp 9-15.
Elliott, B.C, & Foster, D.H, (1984), “A biomechanical analysis of the front-on and side-on fast bowling techniques”. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 10, 83-94.
Elliott, B.C. and Foster, D.H. (1989). “Fast bowling technique”. In “The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review”, Pp 415.
Ferdinands, R.E.D, 2008, “Biomechanics and the art of bowling”, Coachesinfo.com: information and education for coaches, http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Frares, 2010, December, 28th, “slow motion Thorkildsen, Pitkamaki and Jarvenpaa Beijing 2008”, Retreived from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwM8uuMb_oY
Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Jimpson11, 2011 October 7th, “The best of Nathan Bracken”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bPLqbm9V2E
Keen cricketer, 2012, September, 1st, “James Anderson 5 for 54, great spell of swing V Pak 2010”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyWgX6Ma42g
Marylebone Cricket Club (2010). “Law 24-No ball- Fair Delivery: The arm”, page accessed 20th April, 2013, http://www.lords.org/laws-and-spirit/laws-of-cricket/laws/law-24-no-ball,50,AR.html
Mason, B.R., Weissensteiner, J.R. and Spence, P.R. (1989), “Development of a model for fast bowling in cricket”. Excel, 6,Pp 2-12.
Mehta, R. D. (2005). An overview of cricket ball swing. Sports Engineering, 8(4), Pp 181-192.
Tyson, F, (1976), “Complete Cricket Coaching” In ““The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review”, Pp 415.
After E. Deporte & B. van Gheluwe (1988) in G. de Groot et al. (eds) Biomechanics XI B, Free University Press, Amsterdam, Pp 575-81.
AussieSportUploader, 2012, January, 22nd, “*BEAUTY* Hoggard Bowls Langer 1st Ball (WACA Test)”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5RZr7r4RkM
Bartlett, R.M, & Best, R.J, (1988), “The biomechanics of javelin throwing: A review”, Journal of Sports Sciences, 6, Pp 1-38.
Bartlett, R., Stockill, N., Elliott, B., & Burnett, A. (1996). The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review. Journal of Sports Sciences, 14(5), Pp 403-424.
Bilal Baig, 2012, November, 29th, “Brett Lee Bowling Action (super slow mo)”Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYBVaxa8oI8
Blazevich, A, (2012), “Sports biomechanics, the basics: Optimising human performance”, A&C Black, Pp 44-202.
Bobby Nic, 2012, Novemeber, 22nd, “Ricky Ponting bowled Adelaide 22/11/2012”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OaXB759NfN0
Davis, K, & Blanksby, B, (1976), “A cinematographical analysis of fast bowling in cricket”, Australian Journal for Health, Physical Education and Recreation, 71, Pp 9-15.
Elliott, B.C, & Foster, D.H, (1984), “A biomechanical analysis of the front-on and side-on fast bowling techniques”. Journal of Human Movement Studies, 10, 83-94.
Elliott, B.C. and Foster, D.H. (1989). “Fast bowling technique”. In “The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review”, Pp 415.
Ferdinands, R.E.D, 2008, “Biomechanics and the art of bowling”, Coachesinfo.com: information and education for coaches, http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=280:introduction&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Frares, 2010, December, 28th, “slow motion Thorkildsen, Pitkamaki and Jarvenpaa Beijing 2008”, Retreived from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwM8uuMb_oY
Hurrion, P, & Harmer, J, 2004, “The Fast-Medium Bowler: Sports Biomechanics and Technical Analysis Model”, Coachesinfo.com: Information and education for coaches, retrieved from http://coachesinfo.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=281:fastmedium&catid=84:cricket-bowling&Itemid=159
Jimpson11, 2011 October 7th, “The best of Nathan Bracken”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2bPLqbm9V2E
Keen cricketer, 2012, September, 1st, “James Anderson 5 for 54, great spell of swing V Pak 2010”, Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IyWgX6Ma42g
Marylebone Cricket Club (2010). “Law 24-No ball- Fair Delivery: The arm”, page accessed 20th April, 2013, http://www.lords.org/laws-and-spirit/laws-of-cricket/laws/law-24-no-ball,50,AR.html
Mason, B.R., Weissensteiner, J.R. and Spence, P.R. (1989), “Development of a model for fast bowling in cricket”. Excel, 6,Pp 2-12.
Mehta, R. D. (2005). An overview of cricket ball swing. Sports Engineering, 8(4), Pp 181-192.
Tyson, F, (1976), “Complete Cricket Coaching” In ““The biomechanics of fast bowling in men's cricket: A review”, Pp 415.