Are Indian Cricket Fast Bowlers at Risk of Injury? A 3D Biomechanical Investigation

Abstract

Background: Cricket is the most commonly played and followed sport in India. Modern day cricket demands a high level of consistent performance from the fast bowler, who carries the highest risk for injury. 3D motion analysis can be used to prevent injuries by identifying incorrect techniques. Researchers have identified key biomechanical variables as predictors of injury in fast bowlers. Very little such information is available with respect to Indian cricket fast bowlers despite the huge popularity of the sport here. Objectives: To identify areas of injury risk in Indian fast bowlers with respect to key biomechanical variables, using 3D motion analysis. Methods: 22 male State level fast bowlers between ages 18 - 30 years underwent 3D motion analysis in an indoor cricket biomechanics testing facility. Bowling action was captured with a set of 3D cameras (250 fps) and 2D video cameras (125 fps). Data processing & analysis was done with proprietary software using a standard model. Key biomechanical variables including delivery Stride Length (SL), Lateral Trunk Flexion at Ball Release (LTF at BR) and Knee Flexion at Front Foot Contact (KF at FFC) were measured. Peak Vertical Ground Reaction Forces (pVGRF) were recorded simultaneously using force plates. Descriptive statistical analysis of results was done. Results: A large proportion of bowlers were at risk of injuries (100% had less than optimum SL, 41% had high LTF at BR, 45% had high pVGRF and 45% had low KF at FFC). Bowling action type was found to be ideal or acceptable in 77%. Conclusions: Indian fast bowlers, in spite of possessing less injurious bowling action types, are vulnerable to injury with respect to key biomechanical variables. This emphasises role of 3D motion analysis in Indian state level fast bowlers for early identification of injurious techniques and could have implications on coaching of fast bowlers in India.