Quantification and characterization of cricket bowling technique for the development of the parameters required for a novel training system for cricket

Abstract

Cricket bowling has traditionally been referenced using ball release speed, and existing classifications consider the four major bowling types as fast, fast—medium, medium, and spin. A research project based at Loughborough University has recognized the need for an extended bowling classification that not only considers the ball speed, but also its initial flight characteristics, including any spin imparted at release. The purpose of this paper has been the development of an extended bowling classification, which has been used in the development of a requirements specification for an advanced ball delivery system for cricket, to ensure the accurate recreation of technically correct bowling deliveries. Data collected during training and match play have been used to define bowling quantitatively. The initial ball flight characteristics of 30 elite-level bowlers have been filmed in training using a Photron FASTCAM ultima APX high-speed video camera. These videos have been used to determine the speed, the rate of spin, and the initial flight trajectory of the ball at release. Additionally, Hawk-Eye ball-tracking software has been used to investigate the full flight characteristics of seven elite bowlers during a five Test match series. © 2008, Institution of Mechanical Engineers. All rights reserved.