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      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can modify bowling techniques for pace and spin bowling.

      Key learning points

      1. Move: spin bowling uses a grip across the seam with a quick rotation of the fingers on release of the ball.
      2. Move: pace bowling requires a faster run up and more aggressive bowling action to deliver the ball as fast as possible.
      3. Think: different length deliveries will mean the ball arrives at the batter at different heights.
      4. Feel: achieving a successful delivery with spin takes lots of repetitive practice and perseverance.
      5. Connect: being quiet during your opponent's bowling action demonstrates respect and social etiquette.

      Keywords

      • Off spin - a type of bowling in cricket where the ball spins from off side to leg side for a right-handed batter

      • Pace bowling - a type of cricket bowling that uses speed and bounce to challenge the batter

      • Length - the distance from the batter at which the ball pitches (bounces) on the pitch

      Common misconception

      Some pupils will think that success in bowling only comes if the ball hits the stumps.

      In some situations, hitting the stumps is desirable, i.e., bowl a batter out / trap them lbw / win a bowl-out. However, all lengths have their uses and a good bowler can pitch the ball at a wide range of different lengths.

      Teacher tip

      Success with spin depends greatly on the surface being played on. The rougher the surface, the more chance the ball has of gripping and turning. A smooth sports hall floor could be quite frustrating to learn on. The type of ball is also hugely influential and should at least have a seam.

      Equipment

      wickets, balls, cones

      Content guidance

      Risk assessment required - physical activity

      Supervision

      Adult supervision required

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What can regular communication between teammates ensure?

      Correct answer: all are present
      no awkward silences
      everyone is entertained

      Q2.
      Which is the most consistent way to catch?

      Correct answer: two handed
      one handed
      juggling

      Q3.
      Which of these is not part of the action position taken up by a slip fielder?

      legs slightly bent
      Correct answer: feet together
      leaning forward slightly

      Q4.
      When should you celebrate with a teammate?

      they get out
      they have lunch
      Correct answer: they take catch

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What length should we aim to pitch at with pace bowling?

      always good length
      always yorker length
      Correct answer: variety of lengths

      Q2.
      What does learning a difficult skill such as spin bowling require?

      Correct answer: practice and perseverance
      immediate success
      natural talent

      Q3.
      Which of these lengths is most likely to hit the stumps?

      short length
      Correct answer: full length
      good length

      Q4.
      How do we need to grip the ball when bowling spin?

      along the seam
      in the palm
      Correct answer: across the seam

      To help you plan your 10 physical education lesson on: Games to develop spin and pace bowling, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...