As someone whose has been (mis)fortunate enough to play cricket, I can attest than being hit anywhere on your body with a cricket ball is pretty painful, not to mind being hit in the head when you don't expect it.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqVVSsFpcDs&w=560&h=315]
The cheerleader was cheering working at an Indian Premiere League match between the Delhi Daredevils and the Royal Challengers Bangalore last month.