Chinaman Bowling in Cricket: Left-Arm Wrist-Spin Explained
A Chinaman bowler is a left-arm unorthodox wrist-spin bowler who turns the ball away from the right-handed batsman — the equivalent of a right-arm leg-spinner.
What Is a Chinaman Bowler in Cricket?
A Chinaman bowler is a left-arm bowler who uses wrist-spin (rather than finger-spin) to deliver the ball. The Chinaman's stock delivery turns away from the right-handed batsman — in the same direction as a right-arm leg-spinner's delivery. This makes it one of the rarest and most unique bowling styles in cricket.
Chinaman vs Left-Arm Orthodox
| Style | Spin Type | Turns For RHB |
|---|---|---|
| Left-arm orthodox (SLA) | Finger spin | Into the batsman (off to leg) |
| Chinaman (left-arm unorthodox) | Wrist spin | Away from the batsman (leg to off) |
Famous Chinaman Bowlers
Paul Adams of South Africa, with his unique 'frog-in-a-blender' action, was one of the most famous Chinaman bowlers. Australia's Brad Hogg used the Chinaman to great effect in limited-overs cricket. India's Kuldeep Yadav is the modern era's leading Chinaman bowler, effective in all formats.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Chinaman bowler in cricket?
A Chinaman bowler is a left-arm wrist-spin bowler whose stock delivery turns away from the right-handed batsman — like a right-arm leg-break.
How does the Chinaman differ from left-arm orthodox spin?
Left-arm orthodox turns into the right-handed batsman; the Chinaman turns away — the opposite direction.
Who is the best Chinaman bowler in modern cricket?
India's Kuldeep Yadav is considered the best modern Chinaman bowler, taking wickets across all three international formats.