Proximal cueing to reduce elbow extension levels in suspect spin bowlers: A case study

Cricket bowlers must be able to deliver the ball with less than 15° of elbow extension or face suspension. The aim of this case study was to report the findings of a technique remediation programme on the elbow joint kinematics of an international cricket bowler. The bowler underwent a three-dimensional bowling analysis to measure his elbow joint kinematics before and after a technique remediation programme. The bowler was required to bowl six deliveries of each of his off-break, quicker and doosra variations. The remediation programme focussed on modifying the bowler’s run-up, shoulder alignment and ball/hand position at back foot impact. Elbow joint waveform data were analysed using statistical parametric mapping tests and coefficient of multiple determination. Elbow flexion–extension angles at discrete events were compared pre- and post-remediation using paired-sample t-tests. Results showed that the remediation programme was effective in reducing the amount of elbow flexion, particularly in the first 60% of the delivery cycle. Elbow extension range was significantly lower post-remediation for the off-break and quicker deliveries. It was concluded that basic short-term technique remediation can be effective in reducing elbow extension range.