GB2300363A - Cricket game apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for playing a game simulating the game of cricket comprises a miniature cricket bat (1) including a strap or the like (2) to secure same to the finger of a player. A ball projecting device comprises a representation of a bowler with a support (52) carrying body (49) with an arm (50) pivoted about horizontal axis (51). One end of the arm is coupled with spring (48) and the other end carries a cup (53) which may be rotated by a knob (54) and into which a resilient ball (16) may be placed. The knob (54) may be held between the fingers and may be drawn downwards against force of spring (48) and manually manipulated whereby on release the arm (50) pivots to project ball (16) from cup (53), either with or without spin imparted by knob (54), towards a player holding the bat (1). The arrangement enables players to exercise a considerable degree of skill and control over both bowling of the ball and striking same with the bat. Also disclosed is a fielding device for catching the ball as well as a further ball projecting device comprising a barrel with spring loaded striker pin. A ball (Figure 16 - not shown) comprises a solid portion 16 made of neoprene or the like with a groove 17 in which can be placed a nitrile rubber O-ring 18 to form the seam.

Description

TITLE Apparatus for Playing a Game This invention relates to apparatus for playing a game, particularly a game intended to simulate the game of cricket, wherein a ball projected by one player is to be struck by a bat manipulated by another player. A known game uses a bat controlled by a system of levers with a steel ball bearing used as a ball and launched down an open channel fixed at an incline.

The movement ofthe bat is limited to a pendulum like action in a vertical plane restricted by the confines ofthe levers. The ball is rolled down the open channel and across the playing surface with no facility to either project the ball above the level of the playing surface or to impart spin to the ball.

This invention seeks to provide apparatus for playing a game in which the bat can be more freely manipulated, unimpaired by the constraints of mechanical levers, which will allow a variety of strokes to be played at various angles and not restricted to a vertical plane.

This invention provides also a ball with characteristics to produce a degree of bounce which will accept spin, and as a result of a combination ofbounce and spin be capable ofdeviating from the line of projection. This invention provides further a device for projecting the ball from above the level of the playing surface at various angles and at various speed with or s ithout spin Broadly and in accordance with this invention there is provided an apparatus for playing a game comprising in combination a bat member. a resilient ball and a device for propelling the ball in a controlled manner towards the bat member. the bat member being adapted lobe secured to the finger ofa player.

In a preferred arrangement there is included a fielder capable ofcatching the ball and retaining above the level oft he playing surface.

This invention also comprises alone or in combination and in a preferred and ad'antageous embodiment: a) A bat with means for comfortably securing same to the nail-side ofa plaver's index i firsl ) finger such that the bat can be freely manipulated. leaving the player's second finger to support the hand and to mimic a batsman's front leg.

b) A spherical ball preferable with a raised seam around a circumference. the ball being made ofa conipressible and resilient material that will allow spin to be imparted to it by a niechanicai projection device; advantageously the ball needs to produce sufficient bounce so that a combination of bounce and spin, after being launched either by the mechanical projection device or directly from a player's hand, will cause the ball to deviate from the line of projection when it comes into contact with the playing surface.The size of the ball will preferably be compatible with the mechanical projection device whilst being of sufficient size that it can be comfortably held in a player's finger and projected with or without spin directly from the hand. The ball may have a central magnetised core to facilitate loading into either projection device, using magnetic forces if required. In this instance the ball may be constructed of relatively incompressible material such as plastic around a magnetic core, either with no seam or with a groove around a circumference in place of a raised seam, provided it is used with a playing surface that will produce the necessary bounce and deviation from the line ofprojection when required.

c) A mechanical device for projecting the ball preferably comprises a hollow cylindrical barrel mounted on an adjustable stand. The barrel should be capable of being rotated from different initial positions, in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction about the longitudinal axis through the barrel, under the action ofa plaver's hand turning a grip fixed to the rear of the barrel. The amount of rotation may be limited by a mechanism and should be sufficient to allow enough hand- speed to develop on the grip whereby the degree of spin imparted to the ball will cause it to deviate from the line ofprojection when it bounces on the playing surface. The amount of deviation obtainable should be compatible with that obtainable in the real game, allowing for the scale of reduction.The internal size of the barrel is such that the ball can be loaded into the front of the barrel as a push-fit, although a ball with a magnetised core can be loaded using magnetic forces to retain it in place within a barrel made of magnetisable material. The barrel may contain a firing rod to eject the ball, powered b! a cylindncal helical compression spring which can be held compressed in a range of positions, and will be released under the action of the barrel being rotated by the player tuning the grip. The speed at which the ball is projected is dependent upon the degree to which the spring is compressed, and the degree of spin imparted to the ball is dependent upon the speed at which the player tunis the grip. The method of holding the spring compressed allows a choice of whetlier the firing action is triggered by clockwise or anti clockwise rotation of the grip, which in t un7 detenuines the direction ofthe spin imparted to the ball The adjustable stand ma! be frec- standing on a stable base. and be shaped so that it can be gripped by the player to fix the direction in the horizontal plane that the ball is projected. The stand can be hinged In snme way so that the barrel can be positioned mechanicall through a range of X ertical angles above and belos the horizontal, to fix the direction in the vertical plane that the ball wiill be projected.

This device is characterised in that the firing mechanism is triggered by rotation of the barrel, and this rotation can be used to impart spin to the ball if required, as it is ejected from the barrel.

d) A miniaturised fielder capable of catching the ball, that is a fielder capable of retaining the ball above the level of the playing surface when the ball is projected at its front face. The fielder is likely to be of composite construction and will consist of a rigid frame representing the legs, arms, body sides, shoulders and head, together with a piece ofnet-like material secured loosely to the back ofthe frame, and tightly between the outstretched hands at the front, so forming a pouch below - the body of the fielder in which the ball can be retained.

The ball can be caught in one of several ways, either by striking the loose back netting which absorbs its momentum causing it to fall into the pouch, or by bouncing back off the inside of the back netting into the inside ofthe front netting and hence into the pouch. It can also be caught by striking the inside surface ofthe frame, which should be smooth and angled inwards, and being deflected onto the inside of the back netting before dropping into the pouch.

These mechanisms depend also on the angle subtended in the vertical plane between the line of projection of the ball and the back netting, which is in turn dependent upon the angle the fielder's back makes with the horizontal. Fielders constructed in a bent fonvard position with their backs making a minimum angle of approximately 45 with the horizontal are more I ikely to retain balls than those in an upright stance.This is due to the greater width ofthe pouch from front to hack. and the lover angle of the back, and therefore back netting relative to the horizontal which is more likely to deflect balls at a dox nz ard angle. either on to the inside ofthe front netting or directly down into the pouch. Since the hands of these fielders and consequentl! the top of the front netting is lower than on those fielders with a more upr-ight slance. balls projected at a lower level can be caught.

A weighted base may be required. onto which the frame can be secured. to present tlie fielder being knocked over by the force oftlie ball striking the fielder.

It may be possible to construct the frame and net from the same material in one moulding b! careful choice ofthe matenal and the dimensions, to give the overall rigidity in the frame whilst maintaining the required impact absorbent qualities associated with the netting.

c) An alternative mechanical device for projecting or bowling the ball, to that described in c) above, is available as part ofthis invention. This mechanical device consists ofan outer frame to represent the bowler's legs and lower torso up to the chest, into which is fitted an inner frame to represent the bowler's head, shoulders and outstretched arms. The inner frame is free to pivot in a vertical plane along the line of projection about a spindle which passes through the inner and outer frames.

In order to be able to bowl the ball consistently along the line of projection it is likely that the inner and outer frames will need to be symmetrical in shape about the line of projection, with little tolerance between the surfaces of the two frames where they come into contact, to limit the lateral movement of the inner frame relative to the line of projection during delivery. The outer frame is attached to or integral with a base that is sufficiently large to ensure stability, and which can as an option be capable of adjustment to enable the outer frame to be tilted through a range of anglers relative to the horizontal.

Attached to the rear end of the inner frame on the upper surface is a ball holder, the inside of which must be concave in shape to match the shape ofthe ball, so that the ball can rest securely within it with the seam clear of the inside surfaces of the holder. This is necessary to ensure that the ball can be cleanly and accurately projected along the line of projection. The ball is generallv loaded with the seam at right angles to a venical plane through the line of projection, but bv providing two diametrically opposite notches cut or moulded into the inside ofthe holder, the ball can also be loaded with the seam parallel to the line of projection. The ball holder must be free to rotate clockwise or anti-clockwise at right angles to a vertical plane through the line of projection.This is achieved by fixing it to a spindle that passes at right angles through the rear end of the inner frame. A finger grip is attached to the spindle below the underside of the inner frame. The shape of the grip is flexible so that it can be rotated easily by the action of the player's thumb and first and/or second fingers. In practice it is likely to be either spherical, cylindrical or tapered in some way xsith a surface finish that is sufficiently smooth that it will not cause discomfort or damage to the player's fingers or thumb when used repeatedl! for long penods.

The method by. which the ball holder. spindle and finger grip are attached to the inner frame must ensure that there is insufficient lateral movement ofthe ball holder relative to the line ofprojection to impair the accuracy with which the ball is projected This must hold true even when the ball holder Is rotated at enough speed to impart a degree of spin to the ball either clockwise or anti-clockvise that will cause it to deviate from the line of projection when it bounces on the playing sii?acc. Both the amount of deviation and the accuracy can be compatible with that obtainable in the real game ofcricket, allowing for the reduction in scale. To achieve this and limit wear on both the spindle for the ball holder and the spindle about which the inner frame rotates, it is likely that they will need to be constructed of a hard wearing material, and rotate within sleeves set in relevant parts ofthe inner and outer frames.

These sleeves will be constructed ofthe same hard wearing material. To impart the required spin to the ball the weight of the ball holder, spindle and finger grip must be sufficient to allow enough inertia to be developed so that they will continue to rotate for a short time after the finger grip is spun and released, in a similar way to which a weighted flywheel will continue to spin when released, but to a lesser extent.

The inner frame is powered by a cylindrical helical tension spring attached at one end by a suitable means to the underside ofthe front section ofthe inner frame, and at the other end to a suitable point on or recessed into either the front of the outer frame or the base.

Alternatively it may be powered by a cylindrical helical compression spring suitably constrained, with one end retained in position against the underside of the rear of the inner frame at a suitable point, and the other end retained in a suitable position on the outer frame.

In practice the tension spring is easier to accommodate in construction.

There are further numerous alternatives for powering the device such as elasticated shock chord as a substitute for the helical tension spring, or a strip of sprung steel attached to the underside of the inner frame backward ofthe pivot point, which bears on part of the outer frame, as a substitute for a helical compression spring.The only limitations on the means of powering the device are that it must cause the inner frame to rotate forward to strike a point on the outer frame, when rotated backwards manually or mechanicallv and released, and that the further the inner frame is rotated backwards before being released, the faster must the Inner frame be rotating fonvards at the point it strikes the outer frame, to allow balls to be projected at different speeds. Preferably the design and positioning of the power source within the device should be such that in the natural position for loading the ball, the power source is not significantly stressed to increase its life expectancy.

Generally the natural position of the inner frame for loading the ball should be at a sufficient angle relative to the vertical. that the ball can be retained in position in the ballholder under its own weight. Alternatively the use ofa ball with a magnetic central core in conjunction with a ball holder with an outer casing capable of being niagnetised can eliminate this requirement by relying on magnetic forces to retain the ball in the holder.

The ball is loaded by placing it in tlic ball holder with the seam either at right angles to the line of projection or parallel to it. The player then pulls back the inner tYanic with one hand using the finger grip below the ball holder. whilst holding the base of tlic device with t he other hand which controls the line of projection, thus stressing the spring. The angle to which the inner frame is pivoted backwards is either judged by the player in free space or limited by an adjustable rear stop, which can be easily altered by the player.The use of the adjustable rear stop will prevent the inner frame from rotating beyond a position predetermined by the player. This adjustable stop is likely to take the form of a threaded bolt which is screwed through an internally threaded sleeve fitted in a suitable position in the rear of the outer frame. One end of this stop is fashioned so that it can be easily turned by the player's fingers, and the other end positioned to come in contact with the underside ofthe rear ofthe inner frame at a suitable point.

The ball is bowled or projected by the player releasing the grip, and the degree to which the inner frame is pivoted backwards will determine the speed at which the ball is projected. The player may also impart spin to the ball in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction as it is released. This is achieved by the player maintaining downward pressure to keep the inner frame in contact with the adjustable rear stop until the grip is released, whilst at the same time turning the finger grip vigorously with the fingers and thumb in a clockwise or antl-clockwise direction. The speed at which the player rotates the grip will determine the degree of spin imparted to the ball, by the means of friction between the ball and the inside of the ball holder.The use of the adjustable rear stop will allow the spring to be stressed to a precise degree which will in turn enable the player to determine the position at which the ball bounces from the device. Failure to maintain donvnxvard pressure against the rear stop until release of the finger grip will affect the ability to bounce or pitch the ball the required distance from the device. Spin can be imparted to the ball with the seam either parallel or at right angles to the line ofprojection.

The provision of a rear stop does not preclude the player from releasing the inner frame in free space without imparting spin to the ball The ability to project the ball with the seam either parallel to the line of projection and vertical, or parallel to the line of projection but at any angle to the vertlcal. may be expected to cause some deviation from that line after bouncing on the playing surface.In order to proJect the ball at the required angle in the vertical plane the inner frame must come into contact with either part ofthe front ofthe outer frame or an adjustable front stop screwed through the front of the outer frame, in a similar way to the rear stop, and in a position where the underside of the inner frame will strike it.

The action of stopping the fonard rotation oithe inner frame causes the ball to be ejected from the ball holder. For a fixed angle of prolection. the faster tioc ball is projected tlic further the dex icy must be placcd from the point at which tlie ball is required to bounce on the playing surface. This effective increase in distance between the 'batsman' and the device as the ball delivery speed is increased, is an optional feature ofthe game to allow more time for the 'batsman' to react.If an adjustable front stop is provided it can be used to finely tune the angle at which the ball is projected and hence the precise distance at which the ball will bounce from the device, for a given setting ofthe adjustable rear stop. The adjustable front stop, which is optional, is similar in construction to the adjustable rear stop. If an adjustable base is employed, this can be used on its own or in conjunction with the adjustable front stop to control the angle of projection in the vertical plane, thus eliminating the need for progressively increasing the distance of the device from the point the ball is required to bounce, for increased speeds of projection.

To minimise the noise generated when the inner frame strikes either the outer frame or adjustable front stop, a pad of compressible material may be attached to the underside of the inner frame, the front of the outer frame or the adjustable front stop, at the point of contact. The precise shape of the components and types of material used are flexible provided the device embodies the same mechanical features combined in a similar way. By adjustment of the features a hand-held version of the device can be constructed allowing a wider range ofdeliveries:- A suitably shaped outer frame is utilised preferably circular in profile, with a cut-out towards the back through which the fingers ofone hand can be Inserted to hold the rear of the device.This leaves the other hand free to pull back the inner frame, which pivots over a limited range within the outer frame on a spindle. The angle at which the ball is projected can then be controlled directly by the angle at X which the device is gripped relative to the horizontal, el imi natinu the need for an adjustable base integral with the outer frame. Limiting the inner frame to represent the bowler's shoulders and outstretched arms allows the bowler's head to be employed as a grip for an adjustable stop attached to the top of the outer frame. This stop is a substitute for the adjustable rear stop.

using essentially the same form of construction. with the grip/bowler's head at the top end and the bottom end positioned to come in contact with tlie topside ofthe inner frame, forward ofthe pivot point. The player can therefore control the degree to which the inner frame can be pivoted backwards. and hence the speed at which the ball is projected, by turning the bowlers head to alter the position ofthe adjustable stop prior to projecting the ball.

A further refinement w hich may be applied to the freestanding or hand-held device is a short extension ofthe inner frame beyond the ball holder, large enough and suitably shaped to enable the inner frame to be pulled back and released using the player's finger tip, thus providing an alternative means of operating the device when the ball is to be projected without spin.

A hand held device using a ball holder constructed ofmagnetisable material is ideally suited for use with a ball containing a magnetic core. Since the ball is then retained in the ball-holder using magnetic forces, a number ofoptional modes ofplay are possible: Leaning the device away from the vertical plane through the line of projection allows the ball to be bowled at an angle to this plane, simulating an inswinging or outswinging ball, without risk ofthe ball being dislodged from the ball holder.

ii Ifthe width of the device is restricted sufficiently to allow it to be laid approximately horizontal, to bring the ball holder in contact with the playing surface, then by lining the holder up with a ball rolling towards it, it is possible to field the ball and retain it in the holder using magnetic forces, thereby reloading the device for the next delivery.

iii The device may be slid along the playing surface prior to the delivery, to simulate a bowler's run-up, without risk of dislodging the ball.

To assist inexperienced and young players, the hand- held device may be mounted in an optional stand to keep it upright during use. A click-stop type friction arrangement between the outer frame and the stand will allow the device to be adjusted and held steady through a range of angles to control the angle of projection.

Although the device (whether free standing or hand held) uses previously adopted principles to project the ball, it is characterised by the ability to impart spin to the ball in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction as the ball is projected, with the seam either at right angles to or parallel with the line or projection. It also provides a manual or mechanical means to control the speed and angle at which the ball is projected.

Due to the efficient! of the device it may be used to project a ball with a groove in place ofa raised seam or with no seam, whilst still being able to achieve the required amount of devlat i on from the line of proJ ection, as a result ofspinning the ball.

This Invention will now be described in more detail and with specific reference to preferred enibodiments shown by way of examples only in the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings: Figure 1 shosnsa side elevation ofa bat secured to a player's forefinger by a single two- piece strap fitted externally to the bat.

Figure 2 shows a front elevation ofthe example depicted in Figure 1 Figure 3 shows the details ofa two-piece strap fitted externally to the bat. in perspective, Figure 4 shows a section through the bat and strap depicted in Figure 3, Figure 5 shows a front elevation ofa bat with two securing straps, Figure 6 shows a front elevation ofa bat with three securing straps, Figure 7 shows a perspective ofa single one-piece opening strap fitted intemally through a bat, Figure 8 shows a perspective ofa single closed strap fitted externally to a bat, Figure 9 shows a side elevation ofa bat attached to a glove by a section ofloop fastening material fitted externally to a bat, Figure 10 shows a perspective ofthe bat depicted in Figure 9, Figure 11 shows a side elevation ofa bat attached to a glove by a section ofloop fastening material fitted internally through a bat, Figure 12 shows a perspective ofthe bat depicted in Figure 11, Figure 13 shows a perspective ofa spherical ball with a large integral raised seam, Figure 14 shows a section through the ball depicted in Figure 13, at right angles to the seam, Figure 15 shows a perspective ofa spherical ball with a large raised seam around a circumference formed from an O-ring, Figure 16 shows a section through the ball depicted in Figure 15, at right angles to the seam, Figure 17 shows an axonometric view ofa mechanical device for projecting the ball.

Figure 18 shows a side elevation ofthe device depicted in Figure 1 7.

Figure 19 shows a section through the top portion ofthe device depicted in Figure 17 along itscentreline, Figure 20 shows an enlargement ofthe loaded muzzle depicted in section in Figure 1 with the ball seam transverse to the line ofprojection.

Figure 21 shows an enlargement ofthe barrel and securing arm depicted in section in Figure 19, Figure 22 shows a perspective of an optional design for the muzzle ofthe barrel.

Figure 23 shows a section in a horizontal plane, viewed from above, through the optional muzzle depicted in Figure 22 loaded with the ball seam parallel to the line ofprojection Figure 24 shows a perspective ofa fielder, Figure 25 shows a side elevation of a fielder, Figure 26 shows a front elevation ofa fielder, Figure 27 shows an axonometric view ofa freestanding alternative mechanical device for projecting the ball, with its spring tensioned, Figure 28 shows a side elevation ofthe device depicted in Figure 27 with its spring tensioned, Figure 29 shows a section through the centreline ofthe device depicted in Figure 27 with its spring untensioned, viewed at right angles to the line of projection, Figure 30 shows a front elevation ofthe device depicted in Figure 27 with its spring tensioned, Figure 31 shows a section through the ball holding part ofthe device depicted in Figure 27, viewed at right angles to the line ofprojection, Figure 32 shows a perspective view ofthe ball holder shown in Figure 31, with one of hvo diametrically opposite notches visible, Figure 33 shows a sectional elevation ofa hand held alternative mechanical device for projecting the ball with its spring untensioned, and Figure 34 shows an axonometric view ofthe device depicted in Figure 33 slotted into an optional stand with its spring tensioned A specific example of a miniaturised cricket bat secured to a player's forefinger by a single two-piece strap fitted externally is described herewith and by reference to Figures 1 to 4 ofthe accompanying drawing Refernng to Figures 1 and 2. the miniatunsed cricket bat I is secured to the nail-side of a player's forefinger by a single two-piece strap 2 fitted externally to the bat. One part of the strap 2 is made of hook fastening material and the other from loop fastening matenal.

The hook-side of the fastening material 2a and the loop-side 2b are shown in Figure 3. In practise the hook and loop fastening material niay be interchanged. That part of the strap which is attached to the bat Is held sn place bx a threaded bolt with countersunk head 3 screwed through a flat rectangular washer 4 into a captive nut 5 moulded into or let into and retained within the body ofthe bat 1. as shown In Figures 3 and 4. The washer is drilled out to allow the topmost surface ofthe bolt 3 to be fi ush or slightly below the surface ofthe washer.

Alternative arrangements and styles of straps for securing the miniaturised bat to a players ibrelinger are described with reference to figures 5 to 8 of the accompanying drawings.

In addition to the to-plecc style of securing strap 2 shown in Figure 3 a securing strap may be either a one- piece opening strap 6 utilising a section of hook fastening material 7 sewn to one side of the strap at one end, with a section of loop fastening material 8 sewn to the other side at the opposite end as shown in Figure 7, or may be a closed strap 9 as shown in Figure 8 made of braid elastic or material with similar elasticity. Each style ofstrap 2,6 or 9 may be used singly or in a combination oftwo as shown in Figure 5 or a combination of three as shown in Figure 6, with the widths ofthe straps being variable to suit each configuration.

Additionally each style of strap may be fitted either externally to a bat as shown in Figures 3 and 4, or intemally through a bat as shown in Figure 7. The securing straps fitted externally may be fixed to a bat either by screwing directly into the bat with a suitable screw or by screwing a threaded bolt with countersunk head into a captive nut or similar internally threaded device moulded into or let into and retained within the body of the bat 1, or by stapling or gluing to the back of the bat. One or more screws or bolts may be employed but they have must countersunk heads and a flat rectangular or oval washer employed which is either drilled out or must be sufficiently compressible to allow the topmost surface of the screws or bolts to be flush with or slightly below the surface of the washer, so they do not project into the player's finger.The washer must be made of a material that is sufficiently rigid to hold the strap in place but which will not cause discomfort or abrasion where it is in contact with the surface ofthe player's finger. A composite or two layer construction may be employed with a compressible material in contact with the surface ofthe players finger which can be instrumental in holding the bat more securely in place. In the case of a bat secured by straps fitted internally a laver of compressible material can be inserted between the finger and the bat or glued to the back ofthe bat, to make the bat more secure and more comfortable. The use of hook and loop fastening material is essential to any opening strap whether it is one-piece or two-piece.This allows the size of the strap to be altered in ven small increments so that the tension can be precisely adjusted to hold the bat securely to the player's finger without significantly restricting the circulation of blood in the finger. The hook fastening material and loop fastening material are interchangeable in any of the configurations previously described.

Where closed straps are employed using braid elastic or similar material, it will be necessary to manufacture straps in several sizes to ensure that a size can be chosen that will not restrict the circulation of blood in the finger. This makes closed straps less of a coiionoercial proposition than opening straps.

As aii alternative to securing a bat to a plaver's forefinger with straps which pass around the finger a bat niay be attached to a globe or finger-stall which can be worn by the player. An example of a bat attached to a glove is described herewith and by reference to Figures 9 to 12 ofthe accompanying drawings.

The design of finger-stall or glove 10 as shown in Figures 9 and 11 is flexible provided a section ofhook fastening material 11 is sewn to the nail side ofthe forefinger. For instance the glove may only have one finger similar to the finger-stall or it could have two fingers with the second finger marked or embellished to resemble a cricketer's leg pad. A section of loop fastening material 12 can be either stapled or glued externally to the back of the bat 1 as shown in Figures 9 and 10. Alternatively a larger section of loop fastening material 13 may be fitted internally through a bat 1 as shown in Figures 11 and 12, and folded over the back of the bat before attaching it to the hook fastening material 11 on the glove or finger-stall.The sections ofloop and hook fastening material are interchangeable for either ofthe configurations shown in Figures 9 to 12.

Examples of a spherical ball with a raised seam around a circumference are described herewith and by reference to Figures 13 to 16 ofthe accompanying drawings.

In Figures 13 and 14 a spherical ball 14 is shown with a large integral raised seam 1 5 around a circumference. The seam 15 is formed at the time the ball 14 is moulded. Figures 15 and 16 show a spherical ball 16 with a groove 17 around a circumference which is either formed at the time the ball 16 is moulded or cut into it subsequently. Into this groove 17 an O-ring 1 8 made of nitrile rubber or similar material is inserted under sufficient tension to hold it in place to form a large raised seam. The balls shown in Figures 13 to 16 are made of solid chloroprene rubber or a substance that will produce a ball with similar density resistance to abrasion and coefficient of restitution when bounced on the playing surface.

The compressible ball so formed from either method of construction must be resistant to wear that can occur as a result ofbeing repeatedly loaded under a push-fit into a mechanical projection device. It must have sufficient bounce and develop sufficient friction with the playing surface such that after launch bv the mechanical projection device or directly from the player's hand, a combination ofthe two factors will cause the ball to deviate from the line of projection. The size of the ball must be compatible with the mechanical device for projecting it. namely of a diameter, excluding the raised seam that is marginallx less than that of the internal diameter ofthe muzzle end ofthe barrel ofthe device. It must also be of sufficient size that it can be comfortablv held in the player's fingers and projected with or without spin directly from the plaver's hand. A raised seam formed from an O-ring is likely to be iiioi.e precisely shaped and more resilient than a moulded seam. and more likely to produce deviation front the line of projection It may also be renewed without replacing the ball. The ball may be constructed with a magnetic central core to facilitate loading relving partially or entirely on magnetic forces to retain the ball in place.

An example of a mechanical device for projecting the ball together with some optional features are described herewith and by reference to Figures 19 to 23 of the accompanying drawings.

In Figures 17, 18 and 19 a mechanical projection device is shown consisting of a hollow cylindrical barrel 19 mounted in a stand 20, that is capable of being adjusted through a range of angles above and below the horizontal, to control the angle at which the ball is launched. The barrel 19 and stand 20 have longitudinal cut-outs in the top over coincident lengths 21, with a series of notches 22 formed in the barrel 19 along both sides ofthe cut out 21. The barrel 19 is held within the stand 20 bv a ball shaped grip 23 attached to the rear of the barrel and a securing collar 24 clamped to the barrel at the front. It is free to rotate through a limited angle either clockwise or anti-clockwise under the action of the player's hand turning the ball-shaped grip 23.The amount of rotation is limited by the mechanism for projecting the ball 16. It must be sufficient to allow enough hand speed to develop on the grip 23, that the degree ofspin imparted to the ball 16 will cause it to deviate from the line of projection when it bounces on the playing surface. The amount of deviation obtainable must be compatible with that obtainable in the real game of cricket, allowing for the scale of the invention. The grip 23 is designed to roughly match the size ofa cricket ball with a seam 36 transverse to the line of projection.

The ball 16 is loaded as a push-fit into the muzzle 25 ofthe barrel 19 with the raised seam 18 transverse to the line of projection as shown in Figures 19 and 20. When the ball 16 is loaded the raised seam 1 8 must be clear ofthe end ofthe barrel 19. In order to prevent the ball 16 being pushed too far into the barrel and allow some tolerance in the ball size. the barrel 19 is tapered internally at the muzzle 25 as shon in Figure 20.The ball 16 is ejected by a firing rod 26 held centrally within the barrel 19 by front and rear spacers 27 and 28. and powered bx a cylindrical helical compression spring 29 fitted over the rod 26 and held between the front spacer 27 and an adjustable collar 30 at the front of the firing rod 26. The spring 29 is compressed bv pulling back an arm 31 attached to an adjustable collar 32 clamped to the rod 26, and securing the ann 31 into one ofthe notches 22 on one or other side ofthe cut-out ' 1 in the barrel 19.

Figure 21 shows the component parts of the securing ami 3 1 depicted in Figures 18 and 19, consisting ofa finger grip 33 which is held on a threaded bolt 34 by a nut 35. The bolt also serves to clamp the collar 32 to the rod 26. and adjusting the position ofthis collar along the rod allows the degree of compression of the spring 29 associated with any notch position to be finely adjusted. As an alternative the collar may be clamped to the rod by a screw within its body, so that the securing arm and finger grip can be any convenient shape, with the notches in the barrel cut to suit the chosen shape of the securing arm.Ifthe securing arm 31 is slotted into a notch on the left hand side ofthe barrel 19, when viewed from the rear, the barrel is then positioned with the securing arm touching the right hand side ofthe cut-out 21 in the stand 20. The barrel 19 is then rotated in an anti-clockwise direction until the securing arm comes into contact with the body ofthe stand on the left hand side ofthe cut-out 21 and is dislodged from the notch, thereby triggering the firing mechanism.

If the securing arm 31 is initially slotted into a notch on the right-hand side of the barrel 19 the firing mechanism will be triggered by clockwise rotation of the barrel 19. in this way spin can be imparted to the ball 16 in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction, the degree of spin being dependent upon the speed at which the barrel 19 is rotated by the player by means of the grip 23. The degree of compression ofthe spring 29 and hence the speed at which the ball 16 is projected is determined bv which notch the securing arm 31 is slotted into, with fine adjustment being effected as previously described.

The precise design of the adjustable stand 20 is flexible, although in addition to being able to accommodate the ball 19 as described above, it must be free-standing and hinged in some wax with a suitable mechanism to control the angle of projection of the ball 16 in a ertical plane. In the example a front hinge 37 is used with thumb-screws 38 on both sides of the dex ice. one of which is shown in Figures 17 and 18. The thumb- screws 38 are secured through a pronged T-nut 39 pushed into the underside ofthe upper section of the stand, and bear on a plate fitted on the lover section ofthe stand.Turning the thumb screws allows the angle at which the ball 16 is launched to be adjusted. Additionallv the stand must have a hand-grip similar to the grip 4 1 shown to allow the placer to fix the direction in the horizontal plane that the ball 16 is projected. Any suitable grip and method of adJusting the angle of launch can be adopted forthe stand.

Figures 22 and 23 sho an option which can be employed to allow the ball to be projected with the raised seam 18 approximately venical and in line with the direction of projection. To allow the ball to be projected in this manner, the firing mechanism must be triggered by a particular method and to diametrically opposite slots 42 must be formed in the muzzle 25 of the bane 19 to accoiiimodate the raised seam 18. The particular method consists of tuning the grip 23 lust sufficientl to release the securing arni 31 and not significantly' furtlier. The slots 42 must therefore be ibrmed such that they are vertically above one another when the barrel's rotational position coincides with the securing arm 31 being released and the firing mechanism being triggered. The slots so formed can only be correctly positioned for the firing mechanism to be triggered by one or other direction of rotation of the grip 23, clockwise or anti-clockwise, but not both. Alternatively two sets of slots may be formed to cater for both.

If the firing rod 26 were allowed to strike the raised seam 18 it would affect the accuracy of delivery, therefore a pronged striking piece 43 is required, the prongs of which should strike the ball 16 on either side ofthe raised seam 18. The design ofthe striking piece 43 is flexible provided it can be secured to the end of the firing rod 26 and can be positioned to avoid striking the seam 18.This can be achieved for a fixed position of the striking piece 43 on the firing rod 26, by releasing the adjustable collar 32 to which the securing arm 31 is attached; rotating the firing rod 26 and hence the striking piece 43 until its slot is roughly vertical; clamping the adjustable collar 32 so that the securing arm 31 is in the position it would be just after being released from a notch The arm can be positioned in two positions around any particular circular circumference on the firing rod 26, to cater for being released by clockwise or anti-clockwise rotation.Then, provided the particular method oftriggering the firing mechanism referred to above is used, the striking piece 43 should, once triggered, move forward to strike the ball 16 with its slot roughly vertical and avoid contact with the raised seam 18 This option does not affect the abilitv of the device to be used to launch the ball 16 with clockwise or anti-clockwise rotation as the ball 16 can still be loaded into this muzzle with the slots 42 as described. but with the raised seam transverse to the line ofprojection as previous! depicted in Figures 19 and 20.

Alternative designs for the striking piece 43 on the front end ofthe firing rod 26 may be emploved. In particular a striking piece with a concave front face, shaped roughly as the inner surface of a hollow spherical or elliptical cap, to allow contact with as much of the surface of the ball as possible on impact. This provides a compromise solution to the problem ofmaintaining the accuracy ofdelivery to an acceptable degree, with the ball seam either transverse or in line with the direction of projection, and no limitations on the method of triggering the firing mechanism. In this way spin may be imparted to the ball with the seam in either position. if required.A further option may be provided by increasing the width ofthe slots 42 formed in the muzzle 25 ofthe barrel 19. The ball may then be loaded with the seam roughly vertical but positioned at a slight angle to the direction of projection to the left or right. when v iexved from above. This option should enable some deviation from the line of projection on contact with the playing surface, for balls projected at speeds throughout the possible range provided by the projection device.

A specific example of a miniaturised fielder is described herewith and by reference to Figures 2, 15, 24, 25 and 26 of the accompanying drawings. In Figures 24, 25 and 26 a fielder of composite construction is shown consisting of a frame 44 to represent the fielder's legs, arms, body sides, shoulders and head joined at the bottom of the legs to form a closed structure for strength. The frame 44 to be constructed of any suitable material which will be strong enough to support itselfand a net 45, when a ball 16 is projected at it under the action of a player striking the ball 16 with the bat 1. The frame may be braced locally at the corners to achieve the required frigidity but not so much that it interferes significantly with the ball 16 striking the inside of the back netting or the inside of the frame 44.A weighted base 46 is shown onto which the frame 4 must be secured, by any suitable means, to provide the stability to withstand the overturning forces experienced as a result ofthe ball 16 striking the fielder.

The example shows a fielder in a bent forward stance with arms and legs open wide and roughly in line, one above the other to provide the maximum catching area. The sides of the frame 44 are angled inwards with smooth flat inside surfaces to provide the best opportunity of deflecting the ball 16 onto the inside of the back netting and hence into the pouch where it will be retained.

The net 45 is loosely secured across the fielder's back with suitable hooks 47 or any similar method of attaching to the frame 44, and hangs under the body of the fielder in a pouch shape before being re-attached to the fielder's hands. The method ofattaching the net 45 to the frame 44 must hold the net 45 in place whilst ensuring that it hangs loosely across the back ofthe fielder, to provide the best method of absorbing the ball's eneQjy at the point of impact.However the net 45 must be strung reasonablv taut between the plaver's hands to maintain the top ofthe front section ofnetting roughly horizontal, providing a bamer which will best retain balls 16 bouncing offthe inside ofthe back netting. lfrequired the bottoni nf the netting or pouch may be attached to the bottom cross member ofthe frame 44 or the base 46, as opposed to hanging above it and being retained in position by the hooks 47 or similar on the inside of the frame 44, as illustrated in the example. Fielders can vary in the degree they are bent forward between the shape depicted in Figure 25 and an upright stance Fielders whose backs make an angle less than 45. to the horizontal will significantly reduce the effective catching area, whilst reducing the depth of pouch from top to bottom for retaining the ball. making them a less viable design.

An example of an alternative device for projecting the ball is described herewith and by reference to Figures 27 to 32 ofthe accompanying drawings.

Figures 27, 28 and 30 show different views of a freestanding mechanical device for projecting the ball 16 powered by a cylindrical helical tension spring 48, with the device in the loaded position and the spring 48 under tension ready to project the ball 16. The device consists of an outer frame 48 to represent the bowler's legs and lower torso up to chest level, into which is fitted an inner frame 50 to represent the bowler's head, shoulders and outstretched arms. The inner frame 50 is free to pivot within the outer frame 49 along the line ofprojection, and is held in place by a large spindle 51 which passes through the inner and outer frames 50 and 49 at right angles to the line of projection.The outer frame 50 is secured to a base 52 for stability, both of which can be held by one of the player's hands to control the direction in which the ball 16 is projected in the horizontal plane. The helical spring 48 used to power the device is attached at one end to the underside ofthe inner frame 50 near its front end, and at the other end to the lower extremity of the outer frame 49 at the front. Loops moulded into the required position in both the inner and outer frames 50 and 49 are used to secure the spring 48.

A ball holder 53 is attached to the rear end ofthe inner frame 50 into which the ball 16 can be loaded. The ball holder 53 can be rotated at right angles to a vertical plane through the line of projection bv means of a cylindrical finger grip 54, both being attached to a threaded bolt 55 with a domed head, which acts as a small spindle and passes at right angles through the rear end of the inner frame 50, as shown in Figure 29. Figure 31 shows in detail how the ball holder 53 and finger grip 54 are secured to it bx means oftwo nuts 57 and 58 respectively.

The nut 57 is tightened against the ball holder 53 so that it is forced to rotate with the threaded bolt 55. The finger grip 54 is screwed onto the bottom end ofthe threaded bolt 55, and the nut 58 is tightened against the finger grip 54 so that it is forced to rotate X with the threaded bolt 55.

Two washers 59 and 60 are positioned between the nuts 57 and 58 and the inner frame 50 at the point where the threaded bolt 55 passes through it. to allow the bolt 55, the ball holder 53 and the finger grip 54 to rotate more freel!l That part ofthe bolt 55 which rotates within the inner frame 50 is not threaded to enable the small spindle and hence the ball holder 53 to be easily rotated in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction. This can be achieved in construction by employing a lanker diameter thread for the nut 57 than for the nut 58, and leaving the central section of the bolt 55 unthreaded.Since both the ball holder 53 and the finger grip 54 are tightly secured to the threaded bolt s 5 55. the player can spin the ball holder 53 by rotating tlie finger grip 54 between the thumb and first and/or second finger in a clockwise or anti- clockwise direction. The inside ofthe ball holder 53 is moulded or shaped to match the shape ofthe ball 16, so that the ball 16 can be held in place with its seam 18 at right angles to a vertical plane through the line or projection. Figure 32 shows one oftwo diametrically opposite notches 56 moulded or cut into the inside ofthe ball holder 53 to allow the ball 16 to be loaded with its seam 18 parallel to the line ofprqiection.The player may then, by turning the finger grip 54 to a suitable position and releasing the grip 54 in that position, cause the ball 16 to be projected with its seam 18 parallel to the line of projection, and at any required angle relative to a vertical plane through the line ofprojection. This option can be expected to produce a variable amount of deviation from the line of projection when the ball 16 bounces on the playing surface, depending on the angle of the seam 18 relative to the vertical at the point when the ball 16 bounces on the playing surface.

In order to ensure that the ball 16 can be cleanly and accurately projected along the line ofprojection, the seam 18 must always be clear ofthe inside surfaces ofthe ball holder 53 when the ball 16 is in the loaded position, held in place by virtue of its own weight.

By rotating the finger grip 54 in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction as the grip 54 is released, the player can project the ball with spin imparted to it in a clockwise or anti clockwise direction, as a result ofthe frictional forces developed between the ball 16 and the inside surfaces of the ball holder 53. The speed at which the finger grip 54 is rotated determines the degree of spin imparted to the ball 16 and hence the amount by which the ball 16 will dex sate from the line of projection when it bounces on the playing surface. The ball 16 ma! be projected with spin with the seam 18 at right angles to the line of projection or parallel to xt.

Figure 29 shows a section through the device in the position in which it can be loaded by the players. such that the ball 16 will stay in place within the ball holder 53 bv virtue of its own weight, with no appreciable tension in the spring 48.

Once the ball 16 is loaded the player can pull back the inner frame 50 bv the finger rip 54 with one hand. whilst holding the base 52 or outer frame 49 with the other hand, thus tensioning the spring 48. The degree to which the inner frame 50 is pivoted backwards 2governs the speed at which the ball 16 can be projected when the grip 54 is released. The player can control the amount of backward rotation and hence ball speed on release, by means oían ad ustable rear stop 62 as shown in Figure 28. A similar adjustable front stop 63 Is also depicted which can be used to control the precise angle at which the ball 16 is projected by limiting the angle to which the inner frame 50 can rotate forward. The ball 16 Is automalically protected at the point when the underside of the front of the inner frame 50 strikes the adjustable front stop 63. The feature numbers 62 and 63 are used to depict the adjustable stops in Figures 27, 28 and 30. Figure 29 shows the component parts of the adjustable stops 62 and 63 which are similar in construction.The adjustable rear stop 62 consists of a threaded bolt 64 with a domed head, which is screwed through an intemally threaded hollow cylindrical sleeve 65 set in the rear of the outer frame 49. An internally threaded disc-shaped grip 66 with a suitably knurled rim to make it easy to grip, is tightly secured to the bolt 64 by means of a nut 67 tightened against it. By turning the disc-shaped grip66 the player can alter the height ofthe head ofthe bolt 64 relative to the outer frame 49, and hence the degree of backward rotation ofthe inner frame 50 before it comes into contact with the rear stop 62, as shown in Figure 28.

The adjustable front stop 63 consists of a threaded bolt 68 with a domed head screwed through an intemally threaded hollow cylindrical sleeve 69 set in the front of the outer frame 49 as shown in Figure 29, plus a disc- shaped grip 70 tightly secured to the bolt 68 by a nut 71. In order to cushion the impact between the underside of the inner frame 50 and the head of the bolt 68, a cap of compressible material 61 is fitted over the head. By turning the disc-shaped grip 70 the position of the head of the bolt 68 relative to the outer frame 49 can be altered, to control the forward rotation of the inner frame 50 at the point at which it strikes the adjustable front stop 63, and hence the angle at which the ball 16 is projected.An additional pad ofcompressible material may be attached to the underside of the inner frame 50 to further cushion the impact.

In order to reduce construction costs the adjustable front stop 63 may be omitted, so that the inner frame 50 simply strikes the outer frame 49, padded if required, in a suitable position, thus fixing the angle of projection to one predetermined angle.

As an alternative to the flat base 52, an adjustable base can be employed. That is one in which the bottom surface remains in contact with the horizontal playing surface while the top surface, onto which the device is fitted, can be tilted fonvard through a range of angles by a suitable means, provided always that the maximum angle to which it can be tilted does not preclude the device from being loaded in the natural position using gravity to retain the ball in the ball holder. This requirement can be relaxed ifa ball 16 with a magnetised central core is used in conjunction with a ball holder 53 with a magnetisable outer casing, since the ball 16 can be held in place b magnetic attraction between the ball holder 53 and the ball 16.An adjustable base used either in conjunction with or instead of an adjustable front stop in the device can provide a greater range of angles at which the ball can be projected relative to the horizontal. Ideally the base should be capable ofbeing adjusted in small increments, such as can be achieved by turning a threaded bolt in a threaded sleeve, whilst at the same time forming a rigid structure and a firm base from which to operate the device. By careful choice a compromise design consisting of a wedge-shaped base not capable of adjustment can be employed, used either with an adjustable front stop in the device or more economically without an adjustable stop. In the latter case the ball is projected at one angle for all speeds of projection ofthe ball.

For designs in which the angle ofprojection is fixed for all ball projection speeds, the player controls the position at which the ball bounces on the playing surface by a combination of adjusting both the distance of the device from that position and the ball projection speed.

A further example of an alternative device for projecting the ball which is hand held is described herewith and by reference to Figures 33 and 34 ofthe accompanying drawings.

Figure 33 shows a sectional elevation viewed at right angles to the line of projection taken through the centre line of a hand held device for projecting the ball 16, powered by a cylindrical helical tension spring 77, with the device loaded ready for use.

The device consists of an outer frame 74 with a cut out 75 at the back to form a hand grip 76, which can be grasped by inserting the fingers of one hand through the cut out 75 and sTapplng them around the hand grip 76. The outer frame 74 represents the legs and torso of the bowler up to chest level, into which is fitted an inner frame 72 representing the bowler's shoulders and outstretched arms. The inner frame 72 is free to pivot within the outer frame 74 along the line of projection through part of a revolution. It is held in place by a large spindle S 1 which passes through the inner and outer frames 72 and 74 at right angles to the line of projection.The outer frame 74 is designed to be held in the fingers of one hand to control both the direction in the horizontal plane and the angle relative to the horizontal that the ball 16isprojected A ball holder 53 small spindle 55 and cylindncal finger grip 54, which form part of the Inner frame, are constructed and operated in a similar manner to that previously' described by reference to Figures 29, 3 1 and 32 for the free standing device to allow spin to be imparted to the ball 16 clockwise or anti-clockwise b! the player ifrequired. Additionally' the upper end ofthe inner frame 72 beyond the ball holder 53 is shaped to provide a platform finger grip 73. to provide an alternative means whereby. the inner frame 72 can be pulled or rotated backwards and released b! the player's fingertip. If the ball 16 is to be projected without spin.

This device may. be used with a ball relying entirely' on gravitational forces to retain it in the ball holder 53 during use, but it is better suited for use with a ball which has a magnetic core to introduce magnetic forces between the ball and holder to retain the ball in place. The introduction of magnetic forces allows some additional modes ofplay, such as projecting the ball with the device held at an angle to a vertical plane through the line ofprojection; sliding the device forward on the playing surface prior to delivery to simulate a bowler's run up; and laying the device flat to allow a ball rolling towards it to be fielded directly into the ball holder 53, ready for the next delivery.

The device is powered by a helical tension spring 77 the ends of which are held in recesses in the inner frame 72 and outer frame 74 by retaining bolts 78 and 79 respectively.

Holding the device by the hand grip in one hand with the ball 16 in the ball holder 53, the inner frame 72 can be rotated backwards by the player with the other hand, using either the cylindrical finger grip 54 or the platform finger grip 73. The player can control the amount of backward rotation of the inner frame 72 that is possible using an adjustable stop, attached to the top of the outer frame 74 in such a way that the bottom of the stop bears onto the top surface of the inner frame 72 forward of the large spindle 51, preventing further backward rotation.

The adjustable stop consists of a threaded bolt 80 with a domed head screwed through an internally threaded hollow cylindrical sleeve 81 set in the top ofthe outer frame 72 as shown in Figure 33. The threaded bolt 80 is screwed tightly into a moulded grip 82 shaped to represent the bowler's head, such that the bolt 80 will rotate as the grip 82 is rotated.

B! turning the moulded grip 82 the player will screw the bolt 80 into or out of the internally' threaded sleeve 81 thereby' altering the height ofthe head ofthe bolt relative to the outer frame 74. This in turn will alter the degree of backward rotation ofthe inner frame 72 that is possible before coming into contact with the head of the bolt. Since the degree of backward rotation governs the speed at which the ball 16 is projected, the adjustable stop provides the player with a means of controlling the speed of the projection.A pad of compressible material 83 is fitted to the outer frame 74 at the point where the inner frame 72 strikes it, after being rotated backwards against the tension in the spring 77 and released, to cushion the impact and to reduce the amount ofnoise generated on impact.

The ball 16 is proJected from the ball holder 53 at the moment the inner frame 72 strikes the pad ofcompressible material 83. The position ofthis pad 83 on the outer frame 74 relative to the large spindle 51 governs the angle of the inner frame 72 relative to the horizontal at the moment it strikes the pad 83. which in turn determines the angle of projection. The angle therefore at which the outer frame 74 is held using the hand grip 76 determines the angle at which the ball 16 is projected relative to the horizontal.

Figure 34 shows an axonometric view ofthe hand-held device slotted into an optional stand 84 with the ball 16 loaded and the inner frame 72 rotated backwards to the point where it is in contact with the head of the threaded bolt 80, ready to be released. The free standing stand 84 is designed to assist inexperienced players in keeping the device vertical along the line of projection, at the same time allowing it to be set at a range of angles relative to a horizontal along the line of projection, using the hand grip 76, to vary the angle of projection.

The latter requirement is facilitated by resting the circular profile of the outer frame 74 on a matching circular slot in the stand 84, which allows the device to be rotated and serves to hold it within the stand 84 under its own weight. A series ofsmall transverse ridges on part of the circumference ofthe outer frame coupled with matching ridges on part ofthe stand, can be used to provide a click-stop type friction arrangement, to enable the required angle of projection to be more easily maintained dunng the delivery.

Claims (1)

1. An apparatus for playing a game comprising in combination a bat member, a preferably resilient ball and a device for propelling the ball in a controlled manner towards the bat member, the bat member being adapted to be secured to the fingerofaplayer.

2. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 1, wherein the bat includes means for securing same to the player's finger preferably comprising an adjustable strap or a pouch.

3. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 1 or 2, wherein the ball has a raised seam around a circumference, the ball being made of a compressible and resilient material.

4. Apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the ball is held initially in the propelling device by magnetic attraction.

5. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the ball propelling device compnses a barrel, with an end to receive the ball, the ball being projected from the barrel by a spring urged pin, the barrel or a part thereofbeing preferably rotatable to impart spin to the ball.

6. Apparatus according to Claim 5, wherein the barrel is adjustable mounted on a support base.

7. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, including a ball catching device preferably having either a sofi or resilient pouch or a rigid bin or a combination thereof and adapted to receive and retain the ball above the playing surface.

8. Apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the ball propelling device comprises a support with an arm pivotal ly attached thereto and having a ball receiving cup on the arm, the arm being rotatable about the pivot to project the ball.

9. Apparatus in accordance with Claim 8, wherein the arm is spring loaded.

10. Apparatus In accordance with Claim 8 or 9, wherein the cup is rotatably mounted on the arm to enable spin to be imparted to the ball preferably either manually or bv automatic means operable on release ofthe arm.

11. Apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim, in combination with a playing surface marked out or forming a pitch defining the area of play.

12. An apparatus in accordance with any preceding claim in combination with rules for play, the said rules comprising substantially the rules ofthe game known as "cricket".

13. A bat device for use in playing a game in accordance with any preceding claim and comprising a rigid elongate member with strap means whereby said member may be attached around and overlying the nail side ofa plaver's finger.

14. A device for projecting a ball primarily for use in playing the game in accordance with any preceding claim, and including a support angular) adjustable in relation to a base member with the support having an open ended barrel mounted thereon in a manner permitting rotation about the longitudinal axis of the barrel. a hand grip member attached to the barrel to effect rotation thereof and a spring loaded plunger located within the barrel with an actuating means enabling the plunger to be drawn back against the pressure of a spring, the open end ofthe barrel receiving a ball which, on release ofthe plunger, is struck by same in order to project the ball from the end ofthe barrel.

15. A ball catching and retaining device primarily for use in playing a game in accordance with any preceding claim comprising a base member, spaced supports upstanding from the base member with a ball receiving pouch or bin above which a ball catching net or surface is provided. the arrangement being such that a ball impacting said net or surface in a substantially horizontal direction will be arrested and fall into the pouch or bin to be caught.

16. A ball projecting device for use In playing a game substantially in accordance with any preceding claim and comprising a base member. a fixed support thereon, an arm medially' pivoted to the support, one end ofsaid arm being connected to the support through a spring means and the other end of said arm including a cup or the like to receive a ball. with the cup being rotatable so as to impart spin to the ball. the arrangement being such that on depression on the end of the arm carrving the ball against spring pressure, and thereafter followed by release, the spring causes the arm to pivot in a controlled manner thereby propelling the ball from the cup.

17. A ball propelling device in accordance with preceding Claim 16, wherein the base support is adjustable manually in order to effect control of the direction and trajectory ofthe released ball.

18. A bat means for use with an apparatus for playing a game and being substantially in accordance with Figures 1 to 12 ofthe accompanying drawings and related description.

19. A ball for use with an apparatus for playing a game and being substantially in accordance with Figures 13 to 16 of the accompanying drawings and the description associated therewith.

20. A ball projecting device for use with an apparatus for playing a game being substantially in accordance with Figures 17 to 23 of the accompanying drawings and as described in the related description.

21. A ball catching device for use with an apparatus for playing a game being substantially in accordance with Figures 24 to 26 of the accompanying drawings and as described in the related description.

22. A ball projecting device for use with an apparatus for playing a game being substantially in accordance with Figures 27 to 32 of the accompanying drawings and as described in the related description.

24. A ball projecting device for use with an apparatus for playing a game being substantially. m accordance with Figures 33 and 34 of tlie accompanying drawings and as described in the related description.

25. An apparatus for playing a game substantially as herein described and set forth and with reference to the accompanying description and drawings.