Being Fit for the Task

If a bowler is going to make a significant impact over the course of a match they should develop a reasonable level of fitness. This is particularly true for fast bowlers. A fast bowler is not much good to their team or captain if they rush in for their opening spell with the new ball but are then too tired or sore to bowl extra spells later in the day. Bowling at the end of a day can be very important. If the bowlers tire and cannot maintain line and length, and pace in the case of the faster bowlers, the batting side will cash in big time. Bowlers who are not fit are also more vulnerable to injury and may miss matches completely if unable to bowl properly. Fitness is developed by a combination of general exercise and bowling in the nets. See Chapter 14for more details on training and fitness.

Modern day fast bowlers are more conscious of the need to have peak physical fitness for the job. Strength and conditioning training, core stability, and maximizing flexibility are all important. Running techniques and recovery sessions are helping modern fast bowlers stay in the field.

For all the fuss made about stretching and preparing properly to play sport, never is it truer than for bowlers, particularly fast bowlers. Before a match, have a few gentle run-throughs to warm up, then bowl some gentle deliveries off a couple of paces in the nets or to a team-mate on the outfield. Then have a good stretch, ensuring that the calves, hamstrings, groin, and back are all loosened before doing some more serious pre-match bowling, if you want. But don’t get carried away. You need all your energy for a big day in the field.