Research catches out old theories

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BALLS-EYE: Massey University lecturer Philip Fink keeps his eye on the ball.

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Have you ever been told off for missing a vital catch in cricket?

Well, research by a Massey University lecturer into pin-pointing the ball as it hurtles towards you may be of some help.

The research goes against previous theories that fielders instantly map the trajectory and run to the anticipated landing spot.

Catchers actually keep their eye on the ball, readjusting its path as it flies through the air.

Lecturer Philip Fink, from Massey's Institute of Food, Nutrition and Human Health, worked with American researchers at Brown University in a virtual reality laboratory.

The team mapped virtual ball trajectories, recording the catcher's movements in a 12m by 12m room.

Dr Fink said their research revealed the catcher continuously tracks the ball's velocity.

If it increases, they run backwards and, if it decreases, they run forward to make the catch.

He advises fielders to perfect their catches against a spaced background, such as a brick wall. The wall helps the eyes focus on the moving ball.

Dr Fink's interest in catching sprang from his own experience playing baseball in the United States.

- © Fairfax NZ News