A comparison of the tactics used by successful and unsuccessful batsmen in Twenty20 cricket

Abstract

Twenty20 cricket is a recent adaptation of One Day cricket being introduced to the elite level in 2003. Due to its short existence and the majority of research in cricket being focused toward biomechanical analysis of fast bowling and injury prevention to fast bowlers, a significant lack of literature exists. Specific rule changes have meant Twenty20 cricket is commonly referred to as a batsman’s game. Since its introduction there have been mixed views about the benefits of Twenty20 cricket to technical performance. The purpose of this investigation is to investigate whether any significant differences exist in the strategies and tactics adopted by batsmen from successful and unsuccessful teams. Data was collected from 12 matches shown live on Sky Sports during the 2007 calendar year. A computer notation system was developed in order to record data relevant to specific performance indicators. Chi Squared Tests of Independence were used to statistically test the performance variables. Results indicated that of the nine performance indicators, only the type of batsman and the type of bowler showed a significant difference between successful and unsuccessful teams. Findings from the investigation suggest that due to the elite level of cricket, strategies, tactics and methods between successful and unsuccessful batsmen are not distinctly different and it is the implementation of those tactics during an innings that have an influential bearing on the result of a match. Notably successful tactics however include keeping wickets in hand allowing for freedom in attack toward the end of the innings, advancing down the pitch to disturb a bowler’s line and length and the use of left hand batsmen in the line up. Elite cricket players are able to use the findings to make apparent tactical strengths and weaknesses and to give them a greater understanding of the nature of Twenty20 cricket.