COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF LOWER LIMB NEUROMUSCULAR PERFORMANCE IN SEAM AND NON-SEAM BOWLERS USING COUNTERMOVEMENT JUMP (CMJ) METRICS

Abstract

The capability to generate explosive power in the lower limbs is crucial for cricket
players, particularly fast bowlers. This study aimed to compare the lower limb neuromuscular
performance between seam bowlers and non-seam bowlers using various countermovement
jump (CMJ) metrics. A total of 38 male cricket players were classified into two groups: seam
bowlers (n = 17) and non-seam bowlers (n = 21). Lower limb performance variables which is
eccentric and concentric duration, work, maximum velocity, flight time, power, jump height
force, rate of force development and contact time, were assessed using Micro gate GYKO,
Italy. The results show significant differences between seam and non-seam bowlers in flight
time, jump height, concentric work, maximum velocity, and maximum power, suggesting
superior neuromuscular function in seam bowlers. These findings show the importance of
specific training interventions to enhance performance in cricket athletes.