2025-05-27

The Intricacies of the Doosra

The doosra, a term derived from the Urdu word 'دوسرا', meaning 'the other one', is a delivery introduced by the Pakistani spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. This innovative ball is designed to turn away from a right-handed batsman, unlike the standard off-break that turns into the batsman.

Technique Behind the Doosra

To master the doosra, a bowler must employ a different grip and slightly alter their bowling action. The key is to maintain a straight arm and wrist position during the delivery, which helps in achieving the desired spin. The bowling finger, typically the index finger, plays a crucial role in generating the spin.

Strategies and Impact in Cricket

The doosra has been instrumental in outsmarting batsmen, as it often results in unexpected turns, leading to dismissals.

By adding the doosra to their repertoire, spinners can keep batsmen guessing, making it harder for them to predict the next delivery.

The effectiveness of the doosra can also be influenced by match conditions such as the pitch, weather, and the batsman's approach.