Cricket: Bowlers need more time in nets, claims physio

Doug Bracewell of New Zealand. Photo / Getty Images

The leading physiotherapist in cricket for more than two decades, Errol Alcott, says bowlers need to spend more time in the nets if they are to avoid regular injury.

Alcott started working with the Australian team in 1984 and spent 22 years in the role before linking with the NRL's South Sydney Rabbitohs.

He believes the current regime is doing a good job but said he had picked up a vibe from talking to people who had been in and around the camp in recent times that the workload of bowlers in the nets was being significantly reduced.

Alcott said the body must build up a resistance in practice to bowling for the long spells required in test cricket, and solid net sessions were the key to ensuring young quicks can sustain long careers at the top level.

"You need to get your skill-base endurance for bowling up and there's no other way to do it," said Alcott.

"You can't be stupid about it and each player has specific needs, but there's no good bowling 30 balls and then going to have a spell because you don't do that out in the middle.

"The body has a habit, it responds to work and stress. You just have to make sure you have the right rest and recovery techniques after it."

Australia have had to deal with several injuries in their bowling ranks of late.

Pat Cummins has been sidelined since his test debut against South Africa last month, while fellow youngster James Pattinson has been sore leading into the Boxing Day test. Veterans Shane Watson and Ryan Harris are also ongoing concerns.

Alcott was at Cricket Australia when a regulated system of resting players was attempted, but he said it had been proved not to work.

- AAP