Like most athletes, cricketers also face injuries, but fast bowlers are particularly prone to them. Why is that?
When I refer to fast bowlers, I mean bowlers who regularly bowl 135 to 140.
To achieve this speed, a bowler must rotate their arms rapidly, which places substantial strain on their shoulders, neck, back, hips, and thighs.
Moreover, a fast bowler needs to generate momentum and often jumps to deliver the ball from the highest point allowed by their height.
Imagine a bowler who is 5 foot 9 inches tall and weighs 180 pounds. When he jumps a yard behind the wicket and lands on his toes, more than five times his weight is transmitted through the joints of his feet and knees. This process is repeated 60 to 100 times on a typical day of bowling.
According to a report, in a Test match against Pakistan, Steven Finn and Chris Woakes covered 54 and 55 kilometers during the game. These long run-ups are exhausting, and on top of that, they are expected to field as well. This constant activity takes a toll on their knees.
Poor landings or damp landing points can easily result in twisted ankles or groin injuries. An improper release can lead to shoulder injuries, and trying to bowl short and quick can put tremendous pressure on the back. Heavier bowlers are even more susceptible to these injuries.
These are the reasons why fast bowlers are more injury-prone.
