Bowling action

Components of a typical bowling action

In the sport of cricket, the bowling action is the set of movements that result in the bowler releasing the ball in the direction of the batsman.

The bowling action can be broken down into a number of parts:

  • Grip
  • Approach
  • Bound (pre delivery stride)
  • Delivery stride
    • Back foot contact
    • Front foot contact
  • Point of release
  • Follow through

There are certain principles that apply to all parts of the bowling action, such as balance, athleticism and keeping the movement flowing in a narrow corridor directed towards the batsman.[1]

Coaching books describe idealised bowling actions. But good coaches are well aware that many successful bowlers employ their own unique styles and some give birth to new, improved technique (for example, Bart King). The above links all describe the most commonly taught techniques.[2]

  1. ^ "Bowling - The basic action". cricket.co.za. Retrieved 9 September 2020.
  2. ^ "A guide to bowling actions". 24 August 2005. Retrieved 9 September 2020.