The ‘Keys’ to preparing for an LBW decision

The ‘Keys’ to preparing for an LBW decision.

Unlocking some of the LBW challenges and myths

True or False

• Statistically…2/3rds of all decisions will be for LBW

• TRUE

• The LBW decision is the easiest decision to make

• FALSE

• The LBW decision begins when the bowler releases the ball

• FALSE

• You need to use sight and sound to make an LBW decision

• TRUE

• Judge every ball on its merits - anticipate but never pre judge.

• TRUE

When does an LBW decision start?

• Factors worth considering before the ball leaves the bowler’s hand…

1. Where did the batsman take guard?

2. Where is the batsman standing?

3. How tall are his pads in relation to the top of the stumps?

4. Where did the bowler deliver the ball from?

5. How much bounce is in this pitch at present?

6. What does this bowler have to do to get an LBW decision in his favour?

1. Where did the ball pitch?

• Where was the ball delivered from - make a note of the ANGLE when moving the sight screen for the new bowler.

• Pick up the flight / ANGLE / direction

• Make a mental note of the leg stump line if appropriate

• What was the length of the ball?

• Once pitched outside leg - tell yourself that and remember it!

2. Did the ball hit pad or bat first?

• Don’t expect to SEE the deflection off the bat!

• Trust your ears and give your brain time to process the information

• Make sure the second noise was the bat hitting the ball first! Note position of bat to ball / pad / ground. Timing of Noises!

3. Point of impact - inline?

• Remember where the batsman was standing

• If at square leg - help your partner

• See the point of impact - Tip…if you don’t see the impact point, give it not out.

• Try to freeze where the batsman got hit.

• Can you see any stumps? Obviously use the stumps as a guide.

• Did the batsman try to hit the ball - benefit of that doubt still goes to the batsman.

4. Was the ball hitting the stumps?

• Where was the ball delivered from? Pick up the ANGLE.

• What did the ball do - swing, move off the pitch? Did it change direction?

• Distance of travel to pitching and hitting - EVIDENCE?

• Where did the ball hit the pad - knee roll is likely to be going over the stumps - what did the ball do after hitting the pad? The ball always hits higher than you think it did!

Now you are fully prepared!?