How to Bowl an Off Cutter

Last Updated: June 3, 2021

An off cutter is a cricket bowling delivery that turns clockwise into the right handed batsman. It is used by the fast bowlers and medium fast bowlers to turn the bowl when there isn't much help from the pitch. This skill can be beneficial to master, as cutters can often entice and fox the batsman to play false shots. An ideal off cutter pitches on off stumps, and upon pitching, moves towards the leg stump.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Mastering the Grip

1
Grip the ball with your index finger on the seam and put your middle finger on the right side of the seam. You can also keep your middle finger just bit away from the seam. Your thumb should grip the the ball from below.The grip is really important for a good off cutter.
2
Turn the ball into the leg stump with an off spinning motion on the ball. Almost like a door nob turning clockwise. Your main target is to spin the bowl at full pace. It is important to remember that the ball is turning from the off stump towards middle and leg stump.

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3
Hold on to your grip while you are running into the pitch. See the batsman and then decide where you want place the bowl.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Releasing the Ball

1
Hold your grip as you roll your arm for the delivery. Clock your wrist backwards so the ball is released at the very last moment.
2
Use your index finger to rotate the ball clockwise. Think of this like you are turning a door nob. Try to generate off spinning motion through your fingers.
3
Move your index finger towards your middle finger with a string grasp on the ball and your middle finger towards your thumb. You need to do this step while you are rolling your arm. Think of this as your fingers are generating the spin with the help of your wrist.
4
Release the ball as your fingers drag the ball with a cutting motion from left to right. Roll the ball and release it with your index finger. Try to generate spin from left to right.

Community Q&A

Question

When do you turn or spin?

Preeti Singh

Community Answer

Bowling cutters starts with your grip of fingers and your wrist . Normally for turning it more, grip it tightly whilst spreading your two bowl gripping fingers.