Throwing Over Arm

Throwing Over Arm

Over arm throwing is a natural instinct for any youngster, for even as a kid he loves to throw pebbles into ponds, or aim a stone at a tree full of fruit. But throwing a cricket ball over a long distance needs skill, technique and power. When these three elements combine in the right proportion, throwing a cricket ball from a distance of 70 to 80 yards right into the wicket keepers’ gloves looks so easy. But when any of them is lacking, throwing can be arduous and injury prone.

If you are learning the art of over arm throwing, or are practicing it after a long lay-off, it is absolutely necessary that you do proper warm up exercises. If your shoulder and back muscles are not properly warmed up, and your elbow is cold, you could easily injure yourself. The throwing distance should also be increased gradually so that you get accustomed to the movement pattern. Any complacency on your part or insistence on the part of your coach could throw you out of the game for a long time with a lingering injury, and this could even harm your career. So, be careful.

The over arm throwing technique :

After fielding the ball suck the ball with both hands towards the chest. Next, swing both hands down and thrust them fully away from the body, with the front arm pointing to the target and the thumbs of the throwing arm pointing downwards.

The elbows of both arms are horizontal, with the ball facing downward.

The front foot steps towards the target. At this point the front shoulder, hips and feet are in the same plane and aligned in the direction of the target.

Now, quickly dig the front elbow into the side of the body to generate power and the throwing arm traces a question mark. Care should be taken to keep the elbow of the throwing arm above shoulder level at the instant the ball is released.

The ball is released over the front foot.

When releasing the ball, try to impart maximum backspin, by keeping a firm grip and a loose wrist. Keep the palm of the throwing arm behind the ball and in the direction of target, and flick the fingers down after ball is released.

The throwing arm and back leg follows through over the front foot in the direction of the target.

Always throw the return to the wicketkeeper on the full. When fielding inside the 30 yards circle, develop a short back swing and quick release. You need to use a long back swing when fielding in the deep.

Remember to warm up properly before you indulge in over arm throwing.