A review of the physical and physiological demands associated with cricket fast and spin bowlers

Abstract

Understanding the demands associated with cricket match-play is essential for the development and implementation of training programs to improve the conditioning status of players. With the recent expansion of playing formats in cricket, particularity Twenty20 cricket, coaching staff must ensure that training programs are specific to each playing position and also give consideration to each match format. The current literature collectively highlights that the physical and physiological demands associated with cricket vary considerably across playing positions and match formats. Further, there is a growing body of research detailing the physical and physiological responses of cricket bowlers during training and match-play. Thus, this review provides an overview of the current literature examining the physical and physiological demands of fast and spin bowlers during competitive match-play, training and simulation protocols. Unsurprisingly, the current research suggests that the physical and physiological d...