Effects of Velocity-Based French Contrast Training on Lower-Limb Power and Delivery Kinetics in Medium-Fast Cricket Bowlers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The bowling performance of cricket fast bowlers is highly dependent on lower limb power and stiffness. French Contrast Training (FCT) and Velocity-Based Training (VBT) are effective ways to improve rate of force development and peak power. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of VBT-optimized FCT on the lower limb explosive power and bowling performance of cricket fast bowlers. Twenty adult male medium-fast bowlers volunteered for this study and were evenly divided into an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG). The EG underwent an 8-week VBT-based FCT program, while the CG completed 8 weeks of traditional resistance training combined with traditional plyometric training. Before and after the intervention, subjects were tested on their Bulgarian split squat load-velocity profile, general lower limb power (countermovement jump height, squat jump height, Eccentric Utilization Ratio, and Reactive Strength Index), and bowling performance metrics (front foot contact time, peak force, impulse, front knee angle at ball release, and ball release speed). The results demonstrated that the EG showing significant advantage over the CG on movement velocity during the Bulgarian split squat at loads 20% 1RM, 40% 1RM, and 60% 1RM (p = 0.008, 0.011, 0.008, $η_{p}^{2}$ = 0.337, 0.313, 0.324). General lower limb power in the EG also improved significantly, with CMJ height, EUR, and RSI showing significant inter-group superiority compared to the CG (p < 0.001, = 0.019, 0.004, $η_{p}^{2}$ = 0.659, 0.281, 0.399). Regarding bowling performance, the EG demonstrated highly significant advantages in front foot contact impulse, front knee angle at ball release, and ball release speed (p < 0.001, $η_{p}^{2}$ = 0.572, 0.590, 0.704). In conclusion, the 8-week VBT-FCT program is more effective than the traditional resistance and plyometric training program of the same duration in enhancing lower limb power and bowling performance for medium-fast cricket bowlers.