We are a long way from a swinging cricket ball (!)... and as someone who was bowled for three consecutive ducks this summer...once by a twelve year old...I would be intrigued if anyone come up with a definitive theory.
My ATPL level aerodynamics is hopelessly inadequate; however I can follow the varying transition points and the disparity in drag, but surely the low px created by the smoother side would to some extent negate this and result in the ball remaining reasonably true ?
Thanks... paddling back to my depth now.
MoT