What is beamer in cricket
Beamer in cricket refers to a type of delivery by the bowler where the ball does not hit the pitch before reaching the batsman and is delivered at head height or higher. This kind of delivery, while being rare, poses severe danger for the striker due to its unpredictable behaviour, as it is challenging to handle with precision.
The Origin of Beamer in Cricket
The term ‘beamer’ in cricket has all but mundane origins. While there are theories suggesting that it was derived from ‘beam’, representing the direct line of throw without bouncing off the pitch; others claim that it signifies a ‘beam of light’ due to its fast and straight trajectory. Irrespective of its origin, beamers have been an exciting addition to a bowler’s arsenal since their inception.
Beamers were originally accidental deliveries stemming from issues with grip or mistakes in action. However, over time some bowlers began ending them intentionally in aggressive tactics to unsettle the batsman or cause disarray in their rhythm. Consequently, they often resulted in contentious situations, leading to many debates on sportsmanship values within cricket.
Beamer Delivery and The Rules
According to Law 41.7 of the Laws of Cricket revised by Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), any high full-pitched delivery above waist level without pitching is deemed dangerous and unfair bowling, including beamers. If such a ball is delivered intentionally, it can result in immediate suspension for the remainder of an innings upon first infringement itself.
However, deciding if a beamer was intentional is difficult and ultimately rests on the umpire’s judgment who also considers factors like frequency and nature of previous deliveries by the same bowler. Additionally, it is essential to note that even inadvertent beamers still count towards warnings for dangerous and unfair deliveries.
Nature of Beamers
The nature of beamers can vary dramatically depending on several factors, such as the bowler’s action and speed. The most dangerous type is often termed a ‘fast beamer’, which carries maximum injury risk given its high velocity and unpredictable trajectory.
Full Video in Youtube
By contrast, there are also slower beamers, sometimes used strategically to catch batsmen off guard. These deliveries may not carry the same physical threat as a fast beamer, but they can still prove challenging for a surprised batter due to their unusual angle of delivery.
Coping with Beamer – The Batsman’s Perspective
For batsmen, facing a beamer is one of cricket’s most challenging aspects, especially when it arrives unexpectedly. A primary concern here isn’t just scoring runs but self-preservation too. In response, players have developed various tactics over time including playing defensive shots or evading altogether if possible. Some more confident or adventurous batters may even attempt hooking or pulling the ball; however, these remain risky choices.
Despite offering some element of surprise, modern-day cricket professional discourages using beamers due to the danger associated with them. With advancements in helmet technology and protective gear since those early days, the potential for serious physical harm has been significantly reduced yet remains considerable enough not to ignore.
Beamer Deliveries in Modern Cricket
In recent years we have seen a decrease in the number of beamers being bowled intentionally at international level due to tighter regulations and increased focus on player safety. However, accidents do happen whereby bowling actions result in unintentional beamers.
All said and done, beamers bear an undeniable rarity amidst regular play today that never fails to raise eyebrows whenever enforced – intentional or accidental.
To summarize, while possessing certain strategic appeal principally attributed to their unexpectedness and arduous handling; Beamers also pitch critical concerns about player safety making them both fascinating yet controversial facets within global cricket history.
