in cricket, the terms "over the wicket" and "around the wicket" refer to the position from which a bowler delivers the ball relative to the stumps. These approaches are used strategically to exploit a batsman's weaknesses or to create specific angles of delivery.
1. Over the Wicket:
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The bowler delivers the ball from the same side as their bowling arm.
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It is the most common and standard approach.
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Used to maintain a traditional line and length, especially to target the off-stump.
Example:
A right-arm bowler bowling to a right-handed batsman from the right side of the stumps is considered to be bowling over the wicket.
2. Around the Wicket:
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The bowler delivers the ball from the opposite side of their bowling arm.
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Often used to create different angles, target the batsman's pads, or create rough patches for spin.
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Useful for left-arm spinners or swing bowlers trying to exploit reverse swing.
Example:
A right-arm bowler bowling to a right-handed batsman from the left side of the stumps is bowling around the wicket.
Strategic Uses:
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Over the wicket: Standard and controlled, aiming for top of off-stump.
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Around the wicket: To create awkward angles, target the batsman's pads, or bowl into rough patches for spinners.
These approaches add variety to a bowler's tactics, making it more challenging for the batsman to settle.