Art & Science of Fast Bowling - 1.0
Before I started coaching officially, I wrote a chapter in the Book of Pace called Art & Science.
At the time of writing, my understanding of the concept was based on my personal experiences and extensive research into fast bowling.
Since I started coaching, I frequently reflect on the depth and importance of this particular chapter and its underlying concept.
Peak fast bowling performance is rooted in physics. It involves creating, preserving, and transferring momentum.
While we’re all trying to reach the same destination, the routes we take may differ. These unique methods, styles and techniques are the art of fast bowling.
No two bowlers are the same. When reviewing data, I’ve been fascinated by the numerous strategies and techniques bowlers use to achieve their outcomes.
This leads me to believe that one must first understand and respect the athlete’s unique movement strategy when coaching technique.
In essence, technical coaching should conform to the athlete, not the other way around.
And take it from me, technique can go right but horribly wrong too!
My concern is that we live in an era where everyone is chasing technical perfection at the expense of natural flare and intensity.
Knowing what to change is a fine balancing act and making a change is a delicate process.
Here’s a great reminder from James Anderson, which I cited in The Book of Pace a few years back.
There’s more than one way to bowl fast.
