The kinematics of batting against fast bowling in cricket

In cricket, batting against a fast bowler is thought to be one of the most challenging tasks a player must undertake. Despite this, minimal research exists investigating the techniques used by batsmen, with the majority of research focussed on injury mechanisms and pace generation in fast bowlers. The aim of this study was to investigate the techniques used by elite and amateur batsmen in a training environment, such that key aspects of batting technique relating to success could be extracted, and recommendations for future coaching practice and player development could be made. A novel methodology was developed for the collection of full body three-dimensional kinematic data of cricket batsmen in a realistic training environment. Kinematic and high-speed video (250 Hz) data were collected for 31 batsmen, and a three-dimensional full body biomechanical model was developed. Batsmen performed forward drive and pull shots against different delivery methods. Key events and kinematic parameters were defined, and used to produce detailed biomechanical descriptions of the forward drive and pull shots. A curve fitting methodology was developed and validated to determine the impact location of the ball on the bat face, and used to investigate the effects of impact location on shot outcome during a range hitting task. Impacts further from the sweetspot were found to generate lower ball speeds and decrease shot accuracy through bat twist. [Continues.]