Study Launched Into Fast Bowling — 18/09/2003

A detailed medical study has been launched which investigates the impact that fast bowling can have on cricketers spines.

In-depth Study

The research is looking at the causes of lower back pain in professional cricketers. Using the latest biomechanical techniques and working with a combination of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and powerful software programmes, researchers will look at the relationship between bowling action and lumbar muscle asymmetry.

PCA Funded

The PCA (Professional Cricketer’s Association), realizing the impact this research could have on future generations of cricketers, have funded the costs of all scanning.

Medical First Team

Thirty-seven professional cricketers were scanned as part of the study. The research is being run by Craig Ranson, Physiotherapist at Derbyshire CCC, Dr Angus Bennet, Lecturer in Biomechancics from Edith Cowan University in Australia in association with Mr. Mark Batt, who is Consultant in Sports and Exercise Medicine at Queens Medical Centre Nottingham.

ECB fast bowling coach, Troy Cooley is also working closely with the project.

For More Information

For more information on the project, contact:

Jason Ratcliffe
PCA Communications Manager
0207 544 8667 (O)
07768 558050 (M)


Craig Ranson
Chief Physiotherapist
Derbyshire CCC
07796 938 552