Are Indian Cricket Fast Bowlers At Risk Of Injury? - A 3d Biomechanical Investigation

Abstract

Cricket is the most commonly played and followed sport in India. Modern day Cricket demands a high level of performance from the fast bowler who obviously carries the highest risk for injury. 3D motion analysis could be used to prevent injuries by identifying incorrect techniques. Researchers have identified certain key biomechanical variables as predictors of injury in fast bowlers apart from other factors like bowling workload and on-field injuries. Very little such information is available with respect to Indian Cricket fast bowlers despite the huge popularity of the sport here. PURPOSE: To identify injury risks in Indian fast bowlers with respect to key biomechanical variables, using 3D motion analysis. METHODS: 22 male fast bowlers from state & division level Cricket teams between ages 18-30 years underwent 3D motion analysis in a Cricket Biomechanics testing facility. The bowling action was captured with a set of 3D cameras (250fps) and 2D video cameras (125fps). 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. Data processing & analysis was done with proprietary software using a standard model. Descriptive statistical analysis of results was done. RESULTS: A large proportion of the study population were at risk of injuries (100% had less than optimum SL, 41% had high LTF at BR, 45% had high pVGRF and 45% had lower KF at FFC). Bowling Action Type was found ideal or acceptable in 77%. CONCLUSION: Indian Fast Bowlers, in spite of possessing ideal to acceptable bowling action types, are vulnerable to injury with respect to key biomechanical variables.Figure