Edinburgh Napier University

  Introduction: Limited mixed methods research has been conducted into the physical and skills requirements of a developing fast bowler.

Methods: This mixed methods study explored the interrelationship between the physical and skill requirements in developing fast bowlers in two parts. Part one, involved scripted online interviews with six professional fast bowling cricket coaches and were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Part two involved implementing a training model for developing fast bowlers. Six developing academy-level fast bowlers (FB) (18.1 ± 1.1 years) completed a periodised bowling-specific programme. Pre/post-tests across various physical qualities were recorded with changes measured using a paired sample t-test (p≤ 0.01) and effect sizes.

Results: Interview themes indicate skill specific warm-ups can be used in skill sessions to physically and technically prepare fast bowlers, while strength and power abilities were perceived important characteristics of fast bowling performance. Fast bowling coaches and strength and conditioning coaches should consider these physical characteristics when designing programmes for developing fast bowlers. Additionally, coaches suggested individualised programmes with strength and conditioning coaches requiring a technical understanding of fast bowling. Post 14-week intervention, group relative changes showed improvement in strength (+8%), power (+2%), muscular endurance (+45%), speed (-6%) and aerobic capacity (+3).

Conclusion: A multi-disciplinary collaborative approach should be used to provide developing fast bowlers with individualised technical and physical support to optimise performance. Although positive improvements were recorded post intervention, further work is needed on how this can increase bowling speed. Future research should consider the benefits of mixed methods research, where the technical and physical characteristics are closely aligned within developmental programmes, to enhance performance and reduce injury in this population.