(Ans:AI)In the world of cricket, an arm delivery (or “arm ball”) is the quintessential weapon for a finger spinner—specifically a slow left-arm orthodox or a right-arm off-spinner.
Unlike a standard delivery that spins away or into the batter, the arm ball does not turn. Instead, it follows the natural trajectory of the bowler’s arm and continues straight on (or even drifts slightly with the arm) at a higher speed.
How It Works
The magic of the arm ball lies in backspin and seam position.
* The Grip: The bowler holds the ball with the seam upright, similar to a medium-pace bowler.
* The Release: Instead of “ripping” the fingers across the ball to create side-spin, the bowler releases it out of the front of the hand with the fingers rolling down the back of the ball.
* The Result: Because there is no side-spin to catch the pitch and turn, the ball skids off the surface and maintains its original line.
Why Is It So Dangerous?
The arm ball is a “trap” delivery based on the batter’s expectations.
* The Deception: The batter sees the spinner’s usual action and expects the ball to turn. They play for the spin, leaving a gap between the bat and pad.
* The Trajectory: Since it doesn’t lose energy by turning, it reaches the batter faster than a standard delivery.
* The Dismissal: It frequently results in LBW (Leg Before Wicket) or Bowled because the ball “slides” through the defense while the batter is still waiting for it to change direction.
Notable Masters
* Ravindra Jadeja: Famous for his “natural variation” where some balls turn and others (the arm balls) shoot straight through.
* Daniel Vettori: Used the arm ball as his primary wicket-taking delivery by drifting it across right-handed batters.
* Saqlain Mushtaq: While famous for the doosra, his arm ball was equally effective at keeping batters guessing.