Definition

Noun: 1. A deceptive delivery in cricket: A "wrong 'un" is a type of bowled ball in cricket, specifically a leg break bowled with a leg spinner's action that spins in the opposite direction (from leg to off for a right-handed batsman), deceiving the batsman. It is also commonly known as a "googly".

Usage

• The term is used exclusively in the context of cricket to describe this specific, deceptive bowling technique.
• It is an informal term, often used by commentators, players, and fans.

Examples

• "The batsman was completely fooled by the bowler's wrong 'un and was clean bowled."
• "He has a very effective wrong 'un in his repertoire of deliveries."
• "Playing the wrong 'un is one of the most challenging skills for a batsman."

Advanced Usage

• The term is a classic example of cricket jargon. Its usage implies an understanding of the sport's technical nuances.
• It is often used in analysis to discuss a bowler's skill or a batsman's dismissal.

Variants and Related Words

• Googly (noun): The more formal and internationally recognized synonym for a "wrong 'un".
• Bosie (noun): An archaic, chiefly Australian term for a googly, named after its inventor, B. J. T. Bosanquet.

Synonyms

• Googly

Antonyms

• There is no direct antonym, but a standard leg break (which spins as expected from the bowler's action) is the delivery the "wrong 'un" is designed to mimic deceptively.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• To bowl a wrong 'un: The action of delivering this specific ball.
  • Example: "The leg-spinner decided to bowl a wrong 'un on the last ball of the over."
• To pick the wrong 'un: A batsman's skill in correctly identifying the delivery as it leaves the bowler's hand.
  • Example: "Good batsmen use the bowler's wrist position to try and pick the wrong 'un."

Noun

1. a cricket ball bowled as if to break one way that actually breaks in the opposite way