History of the short stuff

THE bouncer has been a key part of the fast bowler’s armoury for almost a century now but continues to divide opinion. Since the famous ‘Bodyline’ series of 1932-33, cricket chiefs have tried to keep a lid on the bouncer’s overuse — but not always to total approval. Here are some key dates in the story of the bouncer.

1932-33 England unleash a barrage of fast, short-pitched bowling against a shocked Australian side in what becomes known as the ‘Bodyline’ series. 1935 MCC pass a law declaring ‘direct attack’ bowling unfair. 1957 Laws altered to prevent more than two fielders standing behind square leg. 1991 ICC introduces a one bouncer per batsman per over limit. 1994 After criticism from players and umpires, the ICC amends the law to two bouncers per over. 2014 Australian batsman Phillip

Hughes a match. and 2016 bouncer helmet ECB He is knocked during later decrees designs dies a Sheffield that unconscious are in hospital, all changed. Shield by batsmen move the must ICC is wear yet to helmets replicate. — a 2017 account Umpires the calibre can take of batsmen into when declaring short bowling dangerous, protecting tailenders. 2019 Marnus Labuschagne becomes the first concussion sub in Test cricket, replacing Steve Smith after he is felled by a Jofra Archer bouncer at Lord’s.