An exploration into coaches’ perceptions of the technical, physical and psychological requirements for successful, developing pace bowlers

The purpose of this study was to identify coaches’ perceptions of the technical, physical and psychological requirements for successfully developing pace bowlers. Six international male pace bowling coaches were interviewed with their responses analysed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: 1) no one size fits all, 2) the catalysts for developing pace bowlers and 3) identifying and developing talent. Additionally, coaches identified bowling action, particularly the balance between control and bowling fast, and the role of the strength and conditioning coach as being important to the progression of developing pace bowlers. The findings highlight the need for a collaborative approach between coaches, strength and conditioning coaches and sports psychologists which is vital when supporting the development of young pace bowlers. Further studies are needed to develop a more standardised approach to the criteria used for identifying and developing pace bowlers.