The dynamic behaviour of a cricket ball impact and the effects of pitch construction

The surface on to which a bowler projects the ball in the game of cricket is of fundamental importance to the play of the game. The quality of this surface is a prime concern of players, officials, commentators and spectators alike. A programme of research has been undertaken to identify the factors that lead to the construction of high quality cricket pitches. A high-speed video system for measuring the impact of the cricket ball on the pitch was developed, and over 2000 ball impacts analysed. This analysis enabled pitches to be characterised in term of pace. Soil properties for the monitored pitches were identified and correlations were drawn between pitch performance and soil composition.