Richard
Cricket Web Staff Member
While a natural action that feels comfortable is indeed useful, the essential biomechanics remain the same whether something is natural or manufactured in the individual. The point I was making about Flintoff is that the biomechs of changing his ankle position would not have reduced his pace; for Bond using less spring in his back would have (if what some are saying is right - has) done.It may have simply not been possible for him to make the necessary changes and bowl with any sort of pace and accuracy. You mustn't underestimate the value of the natural bowling action. Slight changes may be necessary and may indeed help, but the natural action for many, is all that feels comfortable.
Anyway I'd say in the Flintoff case that he'd have done best to have avoided all the injuries first then worried about it feeling a bit awkward to start with next.
Is it the hyperextensions that have caused all his injury problems? If so that's news to me.I'd disagree here, Akhtar's hyperflexibility in all of his joints is ideal for a fast bowler and gives him the sort of elastic stretch and snap effect that could make his pace unmatched, in his prime.