A "ripper ball" in cricket is a delivery that is particularly challenging for a batsman to face, often resulting in them being deceived or nearly dismissed.
What Makes a Ball a "Ripper"?
According to the provided reference, a "ripper" is not defined by a single type of delivery, but rather by its impact on the batsman. Key characteristics include:
- Unexpected Movement: The ball might suddenly swing or spin in an unpredictable way.
- High Speed: The delivery can be very fast, making it hard for the batsman to react.
- Difficult Angle: This might include yorkers (balls pitched right at the batsman's feet) or balls that rise sharply off the pitch.
- Deception: Ultimately, a ripper is a ball that comes "snorting in and (nearly) flummoxed the batsman," making it hard for them to play effectively.
Examples of Ripper Balls
While no single delivery type guarantees a "ripper," certain types often qualify:
- A Perfect Yorker: A fast, accurate yorker can be almost impossible to dig out, especially if it swings late.
- Sharp Spin: A ball that spins dramatically, especially from a difficult line, can deceive even the best batsmen.
- Unexpected Seam Movement: If a fast bowler gets the ball to dart off the seam in an unexpected direction, it can be a "ripper".
- Bouncer: A well-directed bouncer at high speed can be a "ripper".
- A Late Swinging Delivery: A delivery that swings late and sharply can be nearly unplayable.
Key Factors that Make a Delivery a "Ripper"
It's not just about the ball's technical properties but also how it affects the batsman psychologically and physically.
- Surprise: The element of surprise is essential. If the batsman is expecting a certain type of delivery and gets something completely different, it's more likely to be a ripper.
- Skill: A ripper often demonstrates the bowler's skill. It takes a great bowler to execute the delivery.
- Impact: A ripper is a ball that will cause a lot of damage, often leading to a dismissal, and hence, the word 'flummoxed' to indicate the degree of surprise.
Summary
In summary, a "ripper ball" in cricket is a delivery that combines speed, movement, deception, and skill to create a near-unplayable ball for the batsman. The term 'ripper' is used for balls that are difficult to face. It's not necessarily about a specific type of delivery but rather its impact on the batsman. The ball can come at high speed, at a difficult angle (like a yorker or a sharp riser) or with unplayable swing or spin.
