Bowling Science
Lesson 23 of 46

Slider (Finger Spin)

4 min read•6/19 sections

Skids on under low backspin.

Technical Breakdown

19-section schema

Definition

A variation released with low-revs backspin and a flat so the ball skids on without turn.

History

Finger- and wrist-spin have been part of cricket since the 18th century; -arm spin was legalised in 1864, and the ICC's 15° flex tolerance (2005) modernised its regulation.

Release Point

Wrist flicked forward rather than rotated; index finger pushes the ball down the .

Physics Involved

Reduced friction at impact means the ball preserves more of its horizontal velocity — perceived as faster, lower, straighter.

Tactical Use

Aim at middle/leg to trap the sweeping or rocked-back batter or bowled around the legs.

Common Mistakes & Drills

Slowing the arm — the must come out at stock or faster than the .