Impact of Resisted Sled Sprint Training on sprint performance and Lower limb power in Cricket Players: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study investigates the effect of Resisted Sled Sprint (RSS) Training on sprint performance and lower limb power in professional cricket players. With the increasing physical demands of modern cricket—particularly in shorter formats such as T20 and ODI—players are required to perform repeated high-intensity sprints and explosive movements, especially during running between wickets. Resisted sled sprint training is considered a sport-specific modality that enhances horizontal force production, acceleration mechanics, and neuromuscular power, making it highly relevant for cricket performance.

The intervention involved a four-week resisted sled sprint training program administered to the experimental group, performed three sessions per week. Each session consisted of 6–8 maximal 20-meter sprints with a weighted sled attached via a waist harness. The training load was individualized based on body mass, with resistance set at 10–15% of body mass during weeks 1–2 and progressively increased to 15–20% during weeks 3–4. Adequate rest intervals of 3–4 minutes were provided between sprint repetitions to maintain maximal sprint quality. The control group continued with conventional cricket training without any resisted sprint component.

The effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using two primary outcome measures. Sprint performance was assessed using the 20-meter sprint acceleration test, which is a reliable and valid measure of short-distance sprint ability relevant to cricket-specific movements such as running between wickets. Lower limb power was assessed using the Broad Jump Test, which measures horizontal explosive power and reflects the athlete’s ability to generate force rapidly through the lower extremities.

Overall, the study is designed to determine whether resisted sled sprint training provides superior improvements in short-distance sprint acceleration and lower limb power compared to conventional cricket training, thereby offering evidence for the inclusion of RSS training in cricket-specific conditioning programs.