In the realm of cricket, where bowling variations are pivotal, the ‘Googly’ ball stands out as a deceptive ace up the sleeve of leg spinners. This mysterious delivery has baffled many a batter, adding an element of surprise to the game.
Originating in the late 19th century, the Googly was pioneered by Bernard James Tindal Bosanquet, an English Test player who stumbled upon the technique while playing ‘Twisti-Twosti’.
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Initially known as ‘Bosie’, this delivery soon became popularized as the Googly.
Difference Between Googly And Leg Spin
Unlike traditional leg spin deliveries that turn away from the batsman, a Googly behaves contrarily by spinning back into the batter after pitching.
For a right-handed batter, a leg spinner’s delivery turns from leg to off, while a Googly turns from off to leg, akin to the movement of an off-spinner’s off-break.
Famous Masters Of The Googly
Several cricketing legends have mastered the art of the Googly, leveraging it to great effect on the pitch. Shane Warne, the iconic Australian leg spinner, utilized the Googly prolifically throughout his career, claiming numerous wickets with its deceptive spin.
Abdul Qadir, renowned as one of Pakistan’s finest spinners, was another adept user of the Googly. His mastery of leg spin bowling, coupled with a potent Googly, troubled many top batsmen of his era.
Anil Kumble, the celebrated Indian spinner, also wielded a formidable Googly. His ability to deceive batters with subtle variations made him a formidable opponent in both Test matches and ODIs.
In conclusion, the Googly remains a cherished weapon in the arsenal of leg spinners, continuing to confound batsmen and shape the course of cricket matches with its unexpected turn.
Its legacy, rooted in innovation and skill, ensures its place as one of cricket’s most captivating bowling techniques.
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