Slinging / Round-Arm Action
Low-arm release angles.
Technical Breakdown
19-section schemaDefinition
A bowling action with the arm released lower than vertical, often near-horizontal — produces unusual angles and skid (Lasith Malinga, Jeff Thomson, Jasprit Bumrah).
Biomechanics
Lower release height (~1.8 m vs 2.2 m standard) reduces the perceived , helping yorkers and skiddy bouncers.
Tactical Use
Lethal for yorkers because batter can't pick up as easily; right-hander struggles with the angle into the toes.
Common Mistakes & Drills
Forced round-arm actions can stress the shoulder — only suited to bowlers whose natural action is low.
Injury Risks
Asymmetric loading of the shoulder; bowlers like Malinga had unique conditioning programs.
Famous Players
Drills → real performancesJasprit Bumrah
2016–presentRight-arm fast (India)
Jasprit Bumrah (Right-arm fast for India, 2016–present). Best known for: Death-overs specialist. His short, hyperextended arm action releases the ball from a uniquely close-to-the- angle — making his land exactly on the at 145 km/h in .
Lasith Malinga
2004–2020Right-arm slinger (Sri Lanka)
Lasith Malinga (Right-arm slinger for Sri Lanka, 2004–2020). Best known for: Round-arm king. Slings the ball from a near-horizontal arm — the low makes his below the bat- arc; took two World Cup hat-tricks.
Thomson
1972–1985Right-arm fast (Australia)
Thomson (Right-arm fast for Australia, 1972–1985). Best known for: Slinging action template.