by Osama
(Pakistan)
Hi Coach,
I am fast bowler, I have a wristy action like Wahab Riaz but I can’t control the seam position.
What should I do to get the seam upright.
Hi Osama,
good question, the seam position is key for quick bowlers and an inability to control it compromises your ability to swing the ball consistently.
Some simple drills will sort this out.
Shadow Bowling: If you have a full length mirror at home, from a standing postion, hold the ball normally with your wrist cocked and locked in behind the ball pointing toward first slip … and slowly go through your action in front of the mirror.
Paying attention specifically to the seam position and focus on keeping it up and straight.
Do this slowly to start off with so you can consciously control the seam.
Do this from stationary and then step back … and step into your action and bowl normally, paying attention to seam and wrist position.
If you don’t have a mirror, do this with a partner, stand 10 metres apart and pay attention to the seam. Watch to see how the seam behaves in the air, you are going to work on a firm wrist, cocked and locked in behind the ball.
Focus on getting the seam upright, work on the degree of tension you have in your fingers so it is neither too tight or relaxed.
Practice with this will grow into your normal bowling performance in the nets, which will lead into improved performance in the middle.
best wishes Coach.
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About Richard Pybus
I'm Richard Pybus, I've coached Pakistan, Bangladesh, Middlesex, Titans and the Cape Cobras in South Africa and the goal of this site is to help you to play winning cricket.