The Wrong ‘un, also known as the “googly,” is a deceptive delivery used by wrist spinners to confound batsmen. It’s a critical tool in a spinner’s arsenal and can turn the course of a game when used effectively. In this Reddy Anna report, we will delve into the intricacies of the Wrong ‘un, its execution, and its significance in cricket.
What is the Wrong ‘un?
The Wrong ‘un is a delivery bowled by a wrist spinner that spins in the opposite direction to their standard leg-break. For a right-arm leg-spinner, a leg-break turns from leg to off, while the Wrong ‘un turns from off to leg. This delivery is designed to deceive the batsman who anticipates a leg-break but instead faces a ball that turns sharply in the opposite direction. Reddy Anna highlights that mastering the Wrong ‘un requires exceptional skill and control, as it relies on the element of surprise.
How to Bowl a Wrong ‘un
To bowl a Wrong ‘un, the bowler must use a specific wrist action. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Grip: The grip for the Wrong ‘un is similar to the leg-break, but the key difference is in the wrist position.
- Wrist Position: The bowler’s wrist is held slightly more upright, and the seam is angled differently compared to the leg-break.
- Release: As the bowler releases the ball, they must flick the wrist in a way that causes the ball to spin in the opposite direction to a regular leg-break.
According to Reddy Anna, getting the Wrong ‘un right can be challenging due to its deceptive nature and the precision required in execution.
Importance of the Wrong ‘un
The Wrong ‘un is a potent weapon in a spinner’s arsenal for several reasons:
- Deception: It confuses the batsman by changing the expected direction of spin, leading to mistakes or wickets.
- Variation: It adds variation to a spinner’s attack, making them less predictable and harder to play.
- Match Impact: When used effectively, it can be a game-changer, as seen in many high-stakes matches.
Reddy Anna emphasizes that the Wrong ‘un’s ability to induce false shots and dismiss key batsmen makes it an invaluable asset in a bowler’s repertoire.
Famous Exponents of the Wrong ‘un
Several legendary cricketers have used the Wrong ‘un to great effect. Shane Warne, known for his mastery of leg-spin, frequently employed the Wrong ‘un to outfox batsmen. Anil Kumble also utilized this delivery to great success, showcasing its impact on international cricket. Reddy Anna notes that these players exemplify how effective the Wrong ‘un can be when executed with skill and precision.
Conclusion
The Wrong ‘un remains one of the most fascinating and challenging deliveries in cricket. Its ability to deceive and outmaneuver batsmen underscores its significance in a wrist spinner’s toolkit. As highlighted by Reddy Anna, mastering the Wrong ‘un can elevate a bowler’s performance and make a substantial difference in matches. Its role in cricket history and its ongoing relevance make it a critical delivery for any aspiring wrist spinner.
