Every bowler has experienced it — a brand new ball in hand, perfect seam position, same pitch… but completely different results. What swung away late in June just drifts harmlessly in November. Why?
Welcome to the phenomenon of seasonal swing — where the same cricket ball behaves differently depending on the time of year.
In this blog, we’ll explore the science and subtle atmospheric factors behind this cricket mystery, and how temperature, humidity, and air pressure affect how the ball swings through the air.
What Is Swing in Cricket?
Swing is the lateral movement of a cricket ball through the air after it’s bowled. This happens due to differences in air pressure on either side of the ball, influenced by:
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Seam position
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Ball shine and roughness
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Speed of delivery
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Atmospheric conditions
There are different types of swing (conventional, reverse, and contrast), but all are sensitive to the environment — especially air properties, which change seasonally.
Key Factors That Change Between June and November
1. Humidity
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June (summer): High humidity levels, especially in monsoon regions.
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November (pre-winter): Drier air in many places.
Effect:
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Humid air is less dense than dry air.
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Paradoxically, humid air can aid conventional swing, as the ball cuts through thinner resistance — helping the seam act more effectively.
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Dry air offers more drag, sometimes reducing smooth swing but potentially aiding reverse swing as the ball gets older.
2. Air Density & Temperature
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Warmer temperatures in June make air molecules expand, reducing density.
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Cooler temperatures in November increase air density.
Effect:
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Denser air in November can increase the resistance against the ball, which may reduce swing or alter its timing.
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Warmer air in June allows for smoother movement and later swing, making it harder for batters to judge.
3. Wind Patterns
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Seasonal wind changes affect cross-breeze, a critical component of swing, especially for outswingers or inswingers using the angle.
Effect:
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June crosswinds (monsoon or coastal currents) can amplify swing unpredictably.
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Stable November winds may make swing more consistent but less exaggerated.
4. Pitch Moisture & Ground Heat
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The heat of June may dry pitches quickly, reducing reverse swing chances.
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November often brings early dew, helping preserve the ball’s shine longer — aiding conventional swing.
Seam and Shine Behavior Across Seasons
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In June, sweat + humidity help maintain one side shiny without drying out too fast. This benefits late conventional swing.
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In November, drier air means you must maintain the shine more consciously, or else risk early dulling — weakening swing early in the innings.
Reverse swing may be easier to achieve in November if the surface is abrasive and dry — the ball gets roughed up quickly and dense air enhances drag differential.
Real-World Observations
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Subcontinental June Tests often show fast bowlers getting early movement, especially under cloudy or overcast skies with moisture in the air.
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November ODIs or T20s, particularly under lights, favor seamers who can exploit early dew for lateral movement — but with more subtle swing.
How Bowlers Can Adapt to Seasonal Swing
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Vary Seam Angle
Minor adjustments in wrist position can make a big difference when swing is subtle. -
Shine Maintenance
Assign a designated fielder to manage the ball’s polish — especially in dry November air. -
Target Air Currents
Learn how wind flows in your ground. Even slight breezes can help you control late swing better in both seasons. -
Work on Reverse Skills
In November’s dry air, if the ball wears unevenly, prepare to switch from conventional to reverse swing tactics early.
The ball hasn’t changed. The pitch might not have either. But the air itself — its moisture, pressure, and temperature — has shifted, changing how swing behaves in subtle but crucial ways.
Understanding seasonal swing is about more than physics — it’s about anticipating your environment and making smart adjustments as a bowler.
So the next time your outswinger goes flat in November or suddenly curves beautifully in June, don’t just blame luck. Blame — or thank — the seasonal science of swing.
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