Footwork Geometry and Bowling Pace: The Impact of Back and Front Foot Angles on Ball Speed

Abstract

Background: The ability to generate high ball speed in fast bowling is closely linked to the efficient coordination of body movements, particularly those involving the lower limbs during the delivery action. Aim: This study investigated the biomechanical factors influencing ball speed among the university-level bowlers, focusing on lower-limb kinematics at key phases of delivery under field-based conditions. Methodology: A total of 30 male bowlers between 18 and 24 years of age participated in the study, producing 180 analyzed deliveries. Anthropometric data were collected, bowling actions were recorded using high-speed two-dimensional video capture, and ball speed was measured by using a pocket radar-gun. Recorded video footage was analyzed frame-by-frame by using Kinovea 2025.1.1 motion analysis software to record the knee angle during the ultimate contact of the back foot (Right leg) and front foot (Left leg) before the ball release was measured. Conclusions: Overall, the study illustrates the practical value of field-based biomechanical analysis in guiding coaching strategies aimed at improving bowling speed and technical consistency.