I have a bowling action very similar to Lasith Malinga. But sometimes the ball goes down the leg side and I just want to know if there are any tips that might help me perfect this bowling action

Hi Gayindu,
There is a lot to be said for un-orthodox round arm actions (like yours and Malinga) when it comes to taking wickets and keeping the batters slightly off-guard but repeating skills in the heat of the competition is not one that the unorthodox action can do as well as their orthodox brothers. Round arm actions mean point of release is crucial and the only remedy for that is repetition. Not just through the week but on the morning of the game. I suggest a longer spell before the game so all that muscle memory and point of release adjustment is just where it needs to be come game time. Helps to be fit. Good luck!

Hi Gayindu,

Great question...

I would suggest that you look at your overall alignment... from the start of your run-up to the end of your follow-through. ie make sure that you are staying on as straight a line towards the target. A key area to look at... and I mention this because I have not seen video of you bowl... but many bowlers with a 'sling' action can 'get across themselves' with their landing in the crease. ie alignment of feet. Again make sure this is aligned towards your target. (if you draw a line between the landing points of your back and front foot, the line should ideally be pointing towards the target) If you do close off a bit this can lead to bowling down the leg side.

The second thing I would look for is where your follow-through is going. Often with 'sling' bowlers their is a tendency to lean towards the offside (for right-handed bowlers)... this can be a cause for bowling down leg. From this lean the follow through could either stop early (not a full rotation through your action) or fall away toward the off side... both these reasons could cause bowling down leg.

To summarise.
1. General alignment.
2. Alignment of fee at landing.
3. Lean to the side at release. (Falling away)
4. Follow through not completing action.
5. Follow through falling away towards the off side.

Hope this helps.