Crick Attack Cricket Bowling Machine
Instruction Manual
Operation · Setup · Use & Care · Service
Manufactured by Sports Attack LLC.
Contact: 800.717.4251 | www.sportsattack.com
Warranty Statement
Sports Attack warrants its machines for five (5) years from original purchase for institutional/residential use and one (1) year for commercial environments. Exceptions include:
- Throwing Wheels: two (2) years
- Electronic Controller: two (2) years
- Throwing Wheel Motors: two (2) years
This warranty excludes cosmetic issues, normal wear and tear, misuse, misapplication, improper assembly, or unauthorized modifications. It also does not cover damage in transit, accidents unrelated to operation, fire, flood, or acts of God.
For warranty repairs, Sports Attack will provide parts and instructions or cover pre-approved labor charges. Effective immediately, warranty components require a picture with the replacement request.
Contact Sports Attack customer service at 800.717.4251 for assistance.
Returns
Machines can be returned within 30 days of receipt for a full refund, less a 10% restocking fee. The purchaser is responsible for return shipping costs. Refunds may be reduced by non-cosmetic damage.
Contact Customer Service at 800.717.4251 for return procedures. Returns are not accepted after 30 days.
Shipping Damage Claims Procedure
Note: Equipment is inspected and packaged before shipping. The transportation company assumes responsibility upon acceptance.
If Shipment Arrives Damaged:
- Visible Loss or Damage: Note any damage on the freight bill/receipt and have it signed by the delivery person.
- File Claim Immediately: Regardless of the extent of damage.
- Concealed Loss or Damage: Notify the transportation company within fifteen (15) days of delivery. Retain the container for inspection.
Sports Attack LLC. is not liable for in-transit damage but will provide necessary documents to support your claim upon request.
Safety Instructions
Electrical Safety
Use a minimum #14/3 grounded 3-wire, 15 amp extension cord for up to 200 ft. For longer distances, consult a licensed electrician.
Operating Safety
CAUTION: Never reach near moving throwing wheels. If necessary, follow these steps:
- Turn all speed dials to "0".
- Turn the on/off switch "OFF".
- Unplug the machine from the power source.
- Wait for wheels to stop completely before reaching near them.
CAUTION: Before connecting to power, check that throwing wheels are tight on motor shafts and the wheel guard and ball chute are securely fastened. Inspect wheels for chips or cracks.
Always set speed controls to "0" before connecting to power and before turning the on/off switch "ON".
Do not allow anyone to walk in front of the machine when it is connected to power.
Personal Injury Hazard Warnings
- Read all instructions and labels before use.
- Use only under adult supervision. Failure to follow instructions can result in severe injury or death.
- Never loosen the horizontal swivel lock while pitching; this can cause the throwing head to pivot unexpectedly.
- Always use a protective screen (not included) to protect the operator from balls hit off the bat.
- Wait for all throwing wheels to stop completely before moving, lifting, or performing repairs.
Electrical Shock Hazard
Connect the Crick Attack to a properly grounded electrical receptacle. Do not operate on wet ground.
Equipment Electrical Damage
Keep hands away from throwing wheels when connected to power. Check machine condition before connecting.
Cricket Bowling Machine Operation
Features & Operating Controls
The Crick Attack features a main casting, throwing head, throwing wheels, ball chute, wheel guard, transport wheels, elevation control, and a horizontal swivel lock. The control panel includes speed control dials and an on/off switch.
Setup Process:
- Install the rear leg and position the machine.
- Secure the horizontal swivel lock.
- Tilt the machine forward onto the wheel guard.
- Insert the two front legs into the undercarriage sockets.
- Lift the machine upright onto its legs.
- Position the machine for the approximate release point and sight down the ball chute to align it with home plate. Ensure the horizontal swivel lock remains tight.
- Unlock the travel lock by turning the elevation control handle counter-clockwise.
- Adjust the throwing head height by turning the elevation control clockwise (start with about 10 turns).
- Examine the machine for completeness: ensure the horizontal swivel lock is secure, throwing wheels are tight, and the wheel guard/ball chute are fastened.
- Ensure the on/off switch is "OFF" before plugging into a power source or generator.
Installing Extended Legs
This process requires two people. Frame lock the throwing head, remove the standard legs, insert the extended legs, and then lift the machine upright.
Batting Practice Setup
- Turn the on/off switch "ON".
- Set speed control dials (e.g., Top Left: 4, Top Right: 4, Bottom: 4).
- Verify no one is in front of the machine.
- Feed a ball down the chute and observe its trajectory relative to the stumps.
- Adjust pitch direction (left/right) using the swing control and horizontal control handle.
- Adjust pitch length (fuller/shorter) using the elevation control.
- Adjust speed using the speed control dials (higher numbers = higher speed).
- Feed a second ball and repeat adjustments until the desired speed, swing, spin, and accuracy are achieved.
- Once the delivery is repeating consistently, the batter can step into the net.
Feeding to a Batter
For proper timing, ensure the batter is ready. Present the ball clearly to the batter, seat it firmly in the ball chute, and release it for a consistent feed.
Selecting the Pitch
Vertical (elevation) and horizontal (swivel) adjustments are necessary when changing speed or spin. Always ensure the batter is away from the wicket area before making adjustments.
Ball Selection
Use consistent cricket balls. Avoid mixing different types, new/old balls, or balls from different manufacturers. Never use wet balls. Real leather or machine-specific balls are recommended.
Bowling Style Selection Chart: This chart provides guideline settings for various bowling styles (Straight, Out Swing, In Swing, Leg Cutter, Off Cutter, Off Spin, Leg Spin, Top Spin). Settings include Left Wheel Speed Control, Right Wheel Speed Control, and Bottom Wheel Speed Control, with recommended speeds (e.g., 70 KmPH, 80 KmPH, 100 KmPH) and typical adjustments (±1).
Shutting Down
Turning Crick Attack Off
- Set each speed control dial to "0".
- Turn the on/off switch "OFF".
- Unplug the Crick Attack from the power source.
Putting Crick Attack Away
- Ensure throwing wheels have completely stopped turning.
- Lower the throwing head by turning the elevation adjustment counter-clockwise until it rests against the control nut.
- Push and hold the travel lock in.
- Turn the elevation adjustment clockwise to hold the head tightly against the travel lock.
- Using the rear leg as a handle, tip the Crick Attack up and over onto the wheel guard.
- Remove both front legs and store them in the travel storage sockets.
- Tip the machine back to rest on the travel wheels for maneuvering.
- For car transport, remove the throwing head: secure the travel lock, loosen the horizontal swivel control, and lift the head off the undercarriage. Rest the head on the wheel guard and yoke for transport.
Maintenance & Service
Care, Cleaning & Maintenance
Lubrication
Lubricate the Elevation Control and Travel Lock annually or as needed with fresh grease. Clean and re-grease the Horizontal Swivel Lock threads.
Throwing Wheel Motors: These motors are sealed and require no lubrication. Check bolts for tightness once a season.
Cleaning the Throwing Wheels
To maintain accuracy, keep throwing wheels clean. Turn off and unplug the machine. Dampen a rag with soap and water and scrub the wheels. For heavy build-up, a synthetic scouring pad or medium sandpaper may be used sparingly. Acetone may be required to loosen dirt or ball residue.
Examine the Machine
Before each use, check the following:
- Horizontal swivel lock is secured (for batting practice).
- Throwing wheels are tight on motor shafts; check keyway retaining bolts.
- Wheel guard and ball chute are securely fastened to the throwing head.
Component Replacement
Throwing Wheel Replacement
Turn off power. Remove wheel guard bolts (if applicable). Hold the wheel, remove the keyway retaining bolt and washers. Work the wheel off the motor shaft, catching the key. Reassemble in reverse order, ensuring the key is aligned and the wheel spins freely.
Motor Replacement
Turn off power. Remove the throwing wheel. Disconnect controller wires, noting their positions and sizes. Loosen wire clamps. Remove the four bolts holding the motor to the main casting. Reassemble in reverse order.
Controller Replacement
Turn off power. Remove controller faceplate screws. Disconnect main power and motor wires, noting positions and connector sizes. Loosen nuts holding speed control shafts. Remove the controller. Reassemble, ensuring wires are correctly reinstalled on the correct terminals.
Exploded View & Parts List
Exploded View
A detailed diagram shows the Crick Attack machine disassembled, with each part numbered. This visual aid helps identify components for maintenance and replacement.
Parts List
A comprehensive table lists all replaceable parts, including their item number, part number, description, and quantity. Key components are detailed, such as the throwing wheels, motors, controller, and structural parts.
To order additional parts: Please contact Sports Attack Customer Service at 800.717.4251 or Fx 775.345.2883.








