Slower balls and variations

Setup

1. Each bowler picks one slower ball to build (back of the hand, knuckle ball, split-finger or off-cutter) and, if they have one, a second variation such as a leg-cutter or a wide yorker.
2. Mark a full-length box at the batting end: most slower balls are aimed full, so they dip onto the batter's feet.
3. Middle practice set-up if you have the players: a batter in full kit with a helmet, a keeper standing back and two fielders at mid-off and mid-on. In a net, use just the batter.
4. Warm up and bowl stock balls first. Keep the total ball count within your association's workload guidelines.

How it runs

1. Stage 1, no batter: six slower balls each into the full box. The coach watches the arm speed: it must look the same as the stock ball.
2. Stage 2, read the hand: the bowler mixes stock balls and variations in any order. The batter shouts 'slow' as soon as they spot one, then plays it.
3. The bowler scores a point for each variation the batter calls late or not at all, and two for a mistimed shot or a wicket. The batter scores a point for each early call.
4. Stage 3, choose the ball: before each delivery the coach gives a situation (batter charging, batter set deep in the crease, short boundary on one side). The bowler picks a ball and says why, then bowls it.
5. Swap batters every two overs and rotate bowlers so each gets a rest between spells.

Coaching points

• Disguise beats pace change. Same run-up, same gather, same arm speed. Only the hand changes.
• Hide the grip until the last moment, behind your thigh or in your other hand during the run-up.
• Aim full. A slower ball that drops short sits up to be hit; one that dips onto a full length is hard to time.
• Release it out of the front of the hand. A slower ball that slips out high becomes a full toss, and above waist height that is a no-ball, so keep it under control.
• Have a reason for each ball: watch the batter's feet and the field before you choose.
• The slower bouncer counts towards the short-pitched limit. Check your competition's playing conditions on bouncers per over.

Common mistakes

• Slowing the run-up or arm, which the batter spots straight away.
• Showing the grip at the top of the mark.
• Bowling the variation too often so it stops being a surprise.
• Letting the slower ball float above waist height. Practise the release with soft balls until it is reliable.