How To Bowl A Teesra In Cricket? (+ Improvement Tips)

Cricket is a game that has been played for centuries, and it continues to evolve with time. One such evolution in cricket is the art of spin bowling. Among the many variations of spin bowling, the teesra is one of the most fascinating deliveries.

Teesra is a type of delivery in cricket that is considered to be a variation of the off-spin or the finger-spin delivery. The word “Teesra” is derived from the Hindi language, which means “third.”

Some of the greatest cricketers, such as Saqlain Mushtaq and Muttiah Muralitharan, perfected this ball like no one else. And fans still have their places in their hearts for their iconic deliveries.

What Is Teesra In Cricket?

Teesra is a type of delivery in cricket that is bowled by spin bowlers, mostly off-spinners. The term “teesra” means “third” in Hindi, indicating that this is a third variation in the series of off-spin deliveries after the stock off-break and the doosra.

The teesra is an unorthodox delivery that deceives the batsman with its unusual spin and trajectory. Even some of the greatest batsmen were left in shock after facing a sudden teesra.

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Origin of Teesra

The origin of the teesra can be traced back to the legendary Pakistani off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq. He first introduced this delivery in the late 1990s during a test match against Sri Lanka.

The delivery involves a change in the grip, wrist position, and release point, making it challenging for the batsman to read.

Saqlain is credited with popularizing the doosra as well, which is another variation of the off-spin delivery. He is also widely dubbed as one of the best Pakistan sportsmen of all time.

Why Is It Called Jalebi?

The teesra is known as “jalebi” in some parts of the world. This is because the delivery spins in the opposite direction to the doosra, creating a shape that resembles the Indian sweet “jalebi.”

Teesra is also known as Jalebi because the delivery tends to spin in the opposite direction of the Doosra.

The Doosra spins from off to leg, whereas the Teesra spins from leg to off, making it look like a Jalebi, a popular Indian sweet dish.

Difference Between Doosra And Teesra

The Doosra and the Teesra are two different deliveries used in cricket, although they are mainly geared towards off-spinners.

The Doosra is an off-spin delivery that spins from the off-side of the batsman towards the leg-side, whereas the Teesra is an off-spinner delivery that spins from the leg-side of the batsman towards the off-side.

The Teesra is a more difficult delivery to bowl compared to the Doosra because it involves a change in grip and wrist position, making it more challenging for the bowler.

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Ideal Grip For Teesra

The ideal grip for Teesra involves holding the ball with the index and middle fingers slightly spread apart, with the middle finger placed closer to the seam than the index finger.

The thumb should be placed on the seam with the ring and little fingers providing support. This grip allows the bowler to impart more spin on the ball, making it more challenging for the batsman to read.

Step-By-Step Guide To Bowl A Perfect Teesra

1. Hold the ball with the ideal grip, with the seam pointing towards the batsman.
2. Run up to the crease and plant your front foot on the ground.
3. As you approach the crease, rotate your wrist inwards towards the leg side, creating a side spin on the ball.
4. Release the ball with a flick of the wrist and fingers, imparting maximum spin on the ball.
5. Aim to land the ball outside the off-stump and spin it towards the batsman, making it difficult for him to play.

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Common Mistakes While Bowling Teesra

1. Incorrect grip: Ensure that you hold the ball with the correct grip, with the middle finger placed closer to the seam than the index finger.
2. Incorrect wrist position: Rotate your wrist inwards towards the leg side to create a side spin on the ball.
3. Incorrect release: Release the ball with a flick of the wrist and fingers, imparting maximum spin on the ball.
4. Lack of practice: Practice regularly to master the Teesra delivery.

Best Bowlers Known For Teesra

Saqlain Mushtaq

Saqlain Mushtaq is considered to be the inventor of the Teesra delivery. He introduced this delivery during the late 1990s and used it effectively during his career.

Saqlain was known for his ability to deceive the batsman with his variations, and his Teesra delivery was one of his most potent weapons. He is also among the highest wicket-takers in cricket.

Ajantha Mendis

Ajantha Mendis is a Sri Lankan spinner who gained fame for his unique bowling action and variations.

He was known for his ability to bowl the Doosra and the Teesra with equal ease, making him a difficult bowler to face.

Saeed Ajmal

Saeed Ajmal is a former Pakistani cricketer who was known for his variations and deceptive deliveries.

He was a master of the Doosra and the Teesra, and his ability to bowl these deliveries with accuracy and control made him a successful bowler.

Muttiah Muralitharan

Muttiah Muralitharan is considered to be one of the greatest spinners in the history of cricket. He was known for his variations and his ability to deceive the batsman with his deliveries.

Although he did not bowl the Teesra regularly, he was known to use it occasionally to surprise the batsman. And even after his retirement, he is still loved for his best bowling stints.

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin is an Indian spinner who has emerged as one of the best bowlers in the world.

He has a wide range of deliveries and variations in his arsenal, and he has also experimented with the Teesra delivery in the past.

He is known for his accuracy and control and his ability to deceive the batsman with his variations.

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Final Note

The Teesra delivery is an exciting variation in the game of cricket, and it requires a lot of practice and skill to master. With the right grip, wrist position, and release, a bowler can deceive the batsman and take wickets.

However, it is important to note that the Teesra delivery is not an easy delivery to bowl, and it requires a lot of hard work and dedication to get it right. With regular practice and persistence, bowlers can develop this delivery and use it to their advantage in the game of cricket.