Throwing Techniques
A strong, accurate arm can create run-outs and apply pressure on batsmen. The best fielders combine quick release with pinpoint accuracy.
Overarm Throwing Technique
The standard cricket throw. Power comes from the whole body, not just the arm.
Step-by-Step:
- Gather with momentum - Pick up ball moving towards target
- Side-on position - Turn body perpendicular to target
- Arm back - Extend throwing arm behind you
- Step towards target - Front foot points at stumps
- Hip rotation - Drive power from hips and core
- Arm through - Release at highest point
- Follow through - Arm continues across body
Accuracy vs Power
A fast but inaccurate throw is useless. Always prioritize hitting the stumps over throwing hard. An accurate throw at 80% power beats a wild throw at 100%.
Pro Tip
Aim at the top of the stumps. This gives keeper the best chance to collect and break the wicket even if the throw is slightly off.
— Ricky Ponting
Crow Hop (Power Throw)
For long throws from the boundary, the crow hop adds extra momentum and power.
Technique:
- After collecting ball, take a small hop
- Land on throwing-side foot
- Use the hop to generate momentum
- Transfer into standard throwing motion
- Release with full body power
When to Use:
- • Throwing from deep boundary
- • When maximum distance is needed
- • Relay throws from outfield
Underarm Flick
For close-range run-outs, the underarm flick is faster than a full throw. Masters like Jonty Rhodes perfected this technique.
Technique:
- Pick up ball on the move
- No backswing - immediate release
- Flick wrist towards stumps
- Keep release low for accuracy
- Follow through towards target
When to Use:
Within 20 meters of stumps when quick release is critical. The time saved by not winding up for a throw can be the difference in a run-out.
Common Mistake
Practice this extensively. A missed underarm flick can result in overthrows. Only use when confident in your accuracy.
Direct Hit Run-Outs
The direct hit - throwing down the stumps without a relay - is the ultimate fielding skill. It requires practice, nerve, and excellent technique.
Keys to Success:
- • Watch the batsman: Know which end to throw at
- • Pick up cleanly: A bobble costs precious time
- • Quick release: Speed of release matters most
- • Aim low: Ball hitting base of stumps is ideal
- • Stay calm: Rushing causes errors
Decision Making
Always know which end to throw at BEFORE collecting the ball. Watch both batsmen, identify the danger runner, and commit to your decision.
Pro Tip
I practice direct hits for 30 minutes every day. It's not natural talent - it's repetition. Hit the stumps a thousand times in practice and you'll hit them in matches.
— Ravindra Jadeja
Relay Throws
When the throw is too long for one fielder, a relay is used. Two quick, accurate throws beat one wild long throw.
How It Works:
- Boundary fielder: Collects ball quickly
- Throws to relay: Chest height, accurate
- Relay fielder: Positioned 30-40m from stumps
- Catches and throws: One motion, minimal delay
- Keeper/bowler: Collects and breaks wicket
Relay Man Tips
- • Position yourself early
- • Call for the ball
- • One smooth motion
- • Know which end before catch
Boundary Fielder Tips
- • Throw to relay, not stumps
- • Chest height is ideal
- • Accuracy over power
- • Lead the relay if moving
Top Videos: Throwing Techniques
3:20How to Throw a Cricket Ball
Sikana English
Overarm throwing technique for accuracy and distance
4:00Fielding Drills - Part 1
Sikana English
Throwing accuracy drills for direct hit practice
4:10Fielding Drills - Part 2
Sikana English
Advanced throwing drills including relay and underarm flicks
3:35Ground Fielding Technique
Sikana English
Pickup and throw in one motion for run-out chances
5:15Complete Fielding Guide
Sikana English
Full fielding techniques including throwing from all positions
Famous Throwing Arms
Jonty Rhodes
South Africa • Direct hits from anywhere, revolutionary
Ravindra Jadeja
India • Bullet throws, exceptional accuracy
Glenn Maxwell
Australia • Power and accuracy combined
Martin Guptill
New Zealand • Strong arm from boundary
MS Dhoni
India • Lightning quick release as keeper