The anthropometric characteristics and kinematic analysis of the cricket pull shot among Malaysian elite batsmen

Empirical studies examining the relationship between anthropometric measures and kinematics of sport skills, especially cricket, are limited. The purpose of this study was to examine the anthropometric characteristics of elite Malaysian cricket batsmen and their relationship with the kinematics of the players executing the pull shot. Eighteen Malaysian national cricket batsmen from three age groups (seniors, under-19 and under-16) were selected for the study. Anthropometric measures included body composition, stature, body segment (limbs) measures and two physical strength tests. Participants performed the intended stroke against a bowling machine with 15 retroreflective markers attached to their limbs. Their performance was videotaped. Kinematics of the stroke were analysed using Aerial Performance Analysis System. One way ANOVA analysis showed the senior and under-19 players were significantly heavier and greater limb size than the under-16 group. Factorial ANOVA comparing successful and unsuccessful pull shots between groups showed the senior batsmen’s right knee and left hip were significantly more extended at bat-ball impact than the younger age groups when performing the successful pull shots. However, the under-16 batsmen showed faster limb movements and bat speed compared to other groups in successful pull shots. The head-to-ball distance was further, left elbow more extended, the bat face angle was lesser at successful pull shot than unsuccessful pull shot among all groups. Pearson correlation examining the relationship between anthropometric and kinematics of the pull shot showed the large girths of the upper body were significantly correlated with the pull shot technique. The superior upper limbs were associated with the extension of the arms joints which assisted the batsmen to execute the successful pull shot. It is suggested the cricket batsmen extended their limbs, generated higher velocities of the pelvises and upper body in order to execute the successful pull shot. Future research analysing the technique in real match situation is suggested.