What is Chinaman Bowling in Cricket? | Meaning, History & Notable Bowlers

Ever witnessed a cricket ball turn sharply away from a right-handed batsman, delivered by a left-arm bowler with a wristy action? This intriguing sight often belongs to the realm of "Chinaman bowling," a unique and somewhat rare art in cricket. For newcomers to the game, the term might sound peculiar, and the bowling style even more so. Let's unravel the mystery behind Chinaman bowling, exploring its definition, historical roots, and the legendary bowlers who mastered this unconventional spin.

What is Chinaman Bowling?

In cricket, Chinaman bowling refers to a specific type of left-arm spin bowling where the bowler uses their wrist to impart spin on the ball. This technique makes the ball turn from the leg side to the offside for a right-handed batsman – the opposite direction of a conventional left-arm orthodox spinner. Think of it as the left-handed equivalent of a right-arm leg spinner.

The key difference lies in the wrist action. While a left-arm orthodox spinner uses their fingers to impart side spin, a Chinaman bowler uses their wrist to generate topspin and sidespin, resulting in a different trajectory and turn. The delivery can vary, including the googly (turning the other way), the slider (going straight on), and other subtle variations that make it a challenging art to face.

Origin of the Term "Chinaman Bowling"

The term "Chinaman" has a somewhat controversial origin, rooted in a specific incident during a Test match between the West Indies and England in 1933. Ellis "Puss" Achong, a cricketer of Chinese descent playing for the West Indies, bowled a delivery that spun sharply from leg to off, dismissing an English batsman, Walter Robins.

Legend has it that when Robins was walking back to the pavilion, he remarked to the umpire, "Fancy being done by a Chinaman!" While the exact phrasing might vary in different accounts, this incident is widely credited with popularizing the term "Chinaman" to describe this style of left-arm wrist spin. It's important to acknowledge the racial undertones associated with the term, and in modern cricket, there's a growing preference for the more descriptive term: left-arm unorthodox spin or left-arm wrist spin.

Techniques & Characteristics

A Chinaman bowler's action is characterized by a few key elements:

• Grip: The grip can vary, but often involves holding the ball in the palm with the seam across the fingers, similar to a leg spinner's grip.
• Wrist Action: This is the most crucial aspect. The bowler flicks their wrist at the point of release, imparting significant backspin and sidespin. The angle of the wrist determines the type and amount of turn.
• Flight and Dip: Chinaman deliveries often have a distinctive flight, dipping sharply as they approach the batsman, making it difficult to judge the length.
• Variety: A skilled Chinaman bowler can bowl a range of deliveries, including:
  • Leg-break (or Chinaman): Turns from leg to off for a right-hander.
  • Googly: Turns from off to leg for a right-hander (the opposite of the stock delivery).
  • Slider: Goes straight on with the arm.
  • Top-spinner: Has extra bounce.

Compared to orthodox left-arm spin, which relies on subtle variations in pace and angle, Chinaman bowling offers the potential for more dramatic turn. Against right-arm leg spin, the fundamental difference is the bowler's approach angle and the direction of the stock delivery. The challenges for a Chinaman bowler lie in maintaining accuracy and controlling the variations, while the advantages include the element of surprise and the ability to exploit the rough outside a right-hander's leg stump.

Notable Chinaman Bowlers in Cricket History

Despite its rarity, several bowlers have successfully utilized the Chinaman style at the highest level:

• Brad Hogg (Australia): A prominent figure in modern cricket, Hogg's deceptive googly and attacking style made him a dangerous bowler in both Tests and ODIs.
• Kuldeep Yadav (India): A contemporary exponent of the art, Kuldeep's ability to turn the ball both ways has made him a vital part of the Indian spin attack.
• Lakshan Sandakan (Sri Lanka): Known for his aggressive approach and variations, Sandakan has been a key spinner for Sri Lanka in recent years.
• Michael Bevan (Australia): While primarily known for his batting, Bevan also bowled useful overs of Chinaman spin, often proving difficult to score against.

Why is Chinaman Bowling Rare?

The scarcity of Chinaman bowlers can be attributed to several factors:

• Difficulty in Mastering the Skill: Left-arm wrist spin is a complex art that requires immense practice and coordination to control line, length, and variations.
• Misclassification in Early Days: Historically, some left-arm wrist spinners might have been categorized simply as slow left-arm bowlers, obscuring the recognition of the distinct style.
• Strategic Use in Matches: Captains might sometimes prefer the consistency of orthodox spin, making the selection of an unorthodox wrist spinner a strategic decision based on pitch conditions and opposition batsmen.

Is the Term "Chinaman" Still Appropriate?

The term "Chinaman" has faced criticism due to its racial connotations stemming from its origin. In recognition of this sensitivity, many cricket commentators, players, and fans are increasingly using alternative terms like left-arm wrist spin or left-arm unorthodox spin. This shift aims to describe the bowling style accurately without relying on potentially offensive language.

Conclusion

Chinaman bowling, or left-arm wrist spin, remains one of the most captivating and challenging forms of spin bowling in cricket. Its unique trajectory, sharp turn, and the variations it offers make it a potent weapon in the hands of a skilled practitioner. While the historical term carries a complex legacy, the artistry and effectiveness of this bowling style are undeniable. As cricket continues to evolve, appreciating the diversity of bowling techniques, including the rare and fascinating Chinaman, enriches our understanding and enjoyment of the game.