Analysis of the footwork patterns of elite wicket-keepers in cricket

Twelve elite wicket-keepers (mean age 27.6 +/- 5.7 yrs) were recruited for this study. The testing protocol required each participant to catch a series of balls in a simulated wicket-keeping task. Each trial was filmed using a self-digitising three-dimensional motion capture system to facilitate analysis of relevant movement characteristics. The most significant finding was the presence of three primary footwork patterns used to initiate lateral movement. Two secondary footwork patterns responsible for maintaining lateral movement were also identified. A MANOVA was conducted on the major kinematic parameters of the crouch position and the first step. No significant differences in the kinematics were identified between any of the footwork patterns utilised. It was concluded that the crouch position for the wicket-keepers in this study was not an important factor in determining the subsequent movement pattern.