Reverse swing is a phenomenon in cricket where the ball moves in the opposite direction to conventional swing, usually at high speeds (above 85 mph or 135 km/h).
How Reverse Swing Works:
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Ball Condition: One side of the ball is kept rough while the other is smooth and shiny.
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Airflow Effect: At high speeds, the rough side creates turbulence, and the ball swings towards the rough side instead of the shiny side (opposite to conventional swing).
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Bowler’s Grip & Seam Position: The bowler does not need to angle the seam much; the swing depends on speed and airflow.
When Does Reverse Swing Occur?
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When the ball is old and rough (around 30+ overs).
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When the bowler generates high pace.
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In dry and abrasive conditions (like in the Indian subcontinent).
Famous Reverse Swing Bowlers:
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Wasim Akram & Waqar Younis (Pakistan) – Masters of reverse swing.
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Dale Steyn (South Africa) – Combined pace with reverse swing.
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James Anderson (England) – Used it effectively in Test cricket.
Reverse swing is one of the most lethal weapons in fast bowling, making it difficult for batsmen to predict and react.