Progressive velocity throwing training increases velocity without detriment to accuracy in sub-elite cricket players: A randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Throwing performance is vital within the sport of cricket. However, little published evidence exists regarding methods to improve throwing velocity and/or accuracy in any cricket-playing population. This study, therefore, assessed the efficacy of progressive velocity throwing training on throwing velocity and accuracy in a cricket-specific test. Eighteen sub-elite male cricket players were assessed for maximal throwing velocity and throwing accuracy at four different throwing velocities relative to maximal throwing velocity. The participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention (n=9) or control (n=9) group. Both groups performed usual pre-season activities for 8 weeks, during which the intervention group performed two additional specific throwing training sessions per week. Maximal throwing velocity was re-assessed at 4 weeks and the progressive velocity throwing programme was adjusted accordingly. The 8-week progressive velocity throwing training significantly increased peak and mean maximal throwing velocity (P = 0.01). Absolute changes in peak and mean maximal throwing velocity were negatively and significantly correlated with initial maximal throwing velocity at 4 weeks (r=−0.805, P = 0.01 and r=−0.806, P = 0.01 respectively) but not at 8 weeks. No significant difference was observed in accuracy for either group at any time. This is the first published study to describe the effectiveness of a progressive velocity throwing training programme on throwing performance in a group of sub-elite cricket players. The addition of two specific throwing training sessions per week can increase maximal throwing velocity without detriment to throwing accuracy.

Keywords:

• Speed
• overhead
• precision
• target
• fielding

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to give thanks to God for the abilities with which this project was conducted. Additionally, the authors wish to thank Ray Patton for his technical support in constructing the accuracy target, Cricket NSW for their generous support and access to athletes, and Jim Robson for assistance with regards to the use of facilities.