THE DETERMINANTS OF BALL RELEASE SPEED IN CRICKET FAST BOWLERS

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify parameters that contribute to high ball release speeds in cricket fast bowlers. 28 senior fast bowlers (mean ball release speed 34.0 ± 1.3 m/s) had their morphological dimensions, concentric and eccentric isokinetic strength and bowling technique analyzed. Six 50 Hz cameras and Ariel Performance Analysis System software analyzed their single fastest bowling action. Using Pearson’s correlation the parameters that significantly predicted ball release speed were: front leg knee angle at ball release, shoulder transverse orientation angle at front foot strike and strength of the shoulder extensor muscle group. Predictor variables failed to allow their incorporation into a multivariate model which is known to exist in less accomplished bowlers, suggesting that data from other groups may not be applicable to competive fast bowlers.