The centre is entrenched in cricket folklore for its role in helping regain the Ashes in 2005. The England squad were ushered into the nets pre-series to face 'Merlyn', a bowling machine specially developed to mimic Shane Warne. Warne took 40 wickets at 19.92 in the series (16 more than any other bowler) but the overall result was achieved.
The Herald on Sunday spoke to former test spinner Peter Such who runs the spin programme at the NCPC. One of his objectives is to produce the next generation's Graeme Swann.
"We're constantly striving to get better spinners," Such says. "We don't necessarily want a Swann or a Monty Panesar clone because individuals have their own styles but it's a sound environment to develop players."
Such says harnessing spin options is a key part of England's long-term strategy, particularly with the advent of the Decision Review System. New Zealand Cricket might take note, given recent test difficulties in the West Indies, India, Sri Lanka and against Swann.
"Statistics show us spin's role is growing in the game. Suddenly the lbw has become more accessible for orthodox spin bowlers," Such says. The centre gives Such the chance to assess fledgling talent against top batsmen: "It gives them something to aspire to; where they can benchmark themselves. It's an opportunity for Andy [England coach Flower] to see some of these guys and get feedback on how they develop their game."
The NCPC is also renowned for cutting edge pace bowling technology where players are wired up like The Six Million Dollar Man.
Dr Mark King, a Loughborough University sports biomechanics expert, told the ecb.co.uk website they learn a lot by sticking a swag of reflective markers to a bowler's body before filming.
"We calculate and measure everything a bowler does. Our cameras can track accurately to about a millimetre of where they are 'in space'. That allows us to reconstruct with a high degree of accuracy how the bowler moves in their action. We link that to technique and injury prevention."
