Round Arm Meaning in Cricket

Round arm describes a bowling style where the player’s arm is extended out to the side, almost horizontal to the ground, at the point of release. This action creates a unique, wide-angle that makes the ball drift across the pitch in a way that is very difficult for the batter to read.

Example: The legendary bowler’s round arm action made it look like the ball was coming from the side of the pitch rather than over the top.

Pro-Tip: While most modern bowlers use an over-the-shoulder action, the round arm style is still seen in some unique ‘slingshot’ bowlers. This angle is particularly effective at targeting the base of the wickets and making the ball skid low along the surface.