The below series of images of Ray Lindwall running up to the bowl depict how graceful action he had. Anyone who has tried to bowl fast cannot dispute that it is hard work; only those who are sound in wind and limb should undertake it. To be successful, speed-start bowling should be a labor of love, as some bowlers make it appear. Speed comes from rhythm and controlled effort; labored movement only hampers and exhausts a bowler.
Therefore, fast bowlers must be able to bowl within themselves naturally; they must not tear their insides out trying to obtain that extra yard of pace if they expect to stay long in the game or to achieve real success in it. Moreover, straining for speed usually means a loss of rhythm and, therefore, a loss of speed. A study of this splendid series of pictures showing Ray Lindwall of Australia in action reveals how a truly great fast bowler operates: how he obtains maximum results from perfection of effort.
Ray Lindwall is shown coming in to bowl one of his thunderbolts; there’s no “powder-puff” stuff about him.
Starting slowly, he quickens his pace smoothly. with each step of his rhythmical run until he is within a couple of yards of the bowling crease, then with every muscle tensed, he flings his body into the task of delivering the ball. It is by this final well-judged leap at the crease and by the winding up of the body and arms in “slingshot” fashion that Lindwall projects the ball on its path with such venom.
It is said that the best fast bowlers bowl with “hate in their hearts.” That’s correct, but only in a cricket sense. Like with any other bowler, a fast bowler must keep in mind that changes in pitch pace might cause batsmen to become anxious. The tighter you grip the ball, the faster it will come off the pitch; if you hold it loosely, it will come off appreciably slower, and there will be no sort of change in the method of delivery for the batsman to notice. Ray Lindwall’s run-up and action will continue to inspire the next generation of fast bowlers for a very long time.
Read More: Ray Lindwall – Australian Premier Fast Bowler 1946–60
