Fast Bowling Is Brutal: Ian Pont on Pace, Pain & Performance

Fast bowling is one of the most brutal roles in sport.

The physical demands are extreme. The injury risk is real. And the mental pressure can be relentless — especially for young bowlers trying to find their way.

In this episode of The Cricket Mind Podcast, Nathan Wood and Briony Brock are joined by Ian Pont, founder of the National Fast Bowling Academy (NFBA), to explore what it really takes to survive — and thrive — as a fast bowler.

Drawing on decades of experience as a former professional fast bowler, international coach, and biomechanical specialist, Ian explains why pace alone isn’t enough — and why mindset, belief, and intelligent preparation are just as important as speed.

Together, they discuss:

1. Why fast bowling breaks so many bodies
2. The difference between bowling fast and bowling well
3. How poor technique and overload lead to injury
4. Why fast bowlers need specialist coaching environments
5. The mental demands unique to fast bowlers
6. How parents and coaches can better support young players
7. When chasing pace helps — and when it hurts

This is an essential listen for fast bowlers, parents, coaches, and anyone interested in long-term player development.

⏱️ Episode Chapters & Timestamps

1. 00:00 Listener questions: mindset support & training volume
2. 05:16 Introducing Ian Pont
3. 07:00 The cricket ball throwing record
4. 11:00 How Ian’s playing career shaped his coaching philosophy
5. 17:30 Style vs structure in fast bowling
6. 22:00 The brutal physical demands of fast bowling
7. 29:00 Why fast bowlers need specialist preparation
8. 33:00 Why the National Fast Bowling Academy exists
9. 43:30 The mental demands of fast bowling
10. 54:30 Visualisation, confidence & pressure moments
11. 1:06:30 Chasing pace vs longevity
12. 1:13:00 Advice for young fast bowlers
13. 1:19:30 Learning more about the NFBA

🔗 Useful Links

National Fast Bowling Academy (NFBA)

https://www.nfbacricket.com

Cricket Mind Online