Comparative Analysis between Effect of Shoulder Strength and Core Endurance on Bowling Speed in Pace Bowlers

Abstract

Background: Cricket has received considerable research attention due to popularity. Ability of bowlers to bowl with high-speed plays a major role in success. Earlier studies have suggested that shoulder and core play a crucial role in kinetic chain which results in improved bowling speed. Objective: The objective of this study was to study relative efficacies of shoulder strength and core endurance on bowling speed in pace bowlers. Methods: Forty male pace bowlers having age (20.10 ± 3.71) in years from Punjab participated in the study. Bowling speed was measured with Radar Gun. Shoulder strength measured with Biodex dynamometer. Core endurance was measured by McGill protocol. Statistical analysis of was carried out using SPSS version 23. Results: Bowling speed was recorded as mean ± SD 91.00 ± 10.10 km/h. Significant fair positive relationship found between bowling speed and external rotators at angular velocity of 90°/s and (r = 0.386) and shoulder flexors at 60°/s (r = 0.408), 90°/s (r = 0.383), and 120°/s (r =0.448). Trunk extension shows fair positive significant relationship (r =0.327) with bowling speed. Conclusion: The present study contributes toward pace bowlers’ training and focus on necessity of further research considering limitations of COVID-19 pandemic.