The SPEEDBOLT is the "Z" shaped position your body gets into when all the previous parts of your fast bowling technique have happened correctly. It is visible just before you release the cricket ball and allows you to bowl consistently fast with a safe bowling action.

Mitchell Johnson (clocked at 156.8kph) showing the SPEEDBOLT position - CC2.0 Photo by Pulkit Sinha

WHY IS THE SPEEDBOLT POSITION SO IMPORTANT?

The SPEEDBOLT position shows that you have an efficient fast bowling technique, and that you are making the most of your body's ability to bowl the cricket ball fast and straight. All the parts of your fast bowling action are working together in the correct sequence.

Ellyse Perry's speedbolt position allows her to bowl over 125kph (original) - Photo © Sarah Brennan

Take a closer look at most of cricket's fastest bowlers and you will clearly see the SPEEDBOLT position just before they release the ball. It is no surprise that these cricketers can bowl faster than others, because they simply have better bowling techniques. If your want to bowl faster, you must invest time and effort to develop a fast bowling technique that will allow you to do so. 

HOW DO YOU ACHIEVE THE SPEEDBOLT POSITION?

To get into a good SPEEDBOLT position, it is important to have:​