This article explains 10 iconic cricket shots, including the straight drive, on-drive, off-drive, cover drive, square drive, and pull shot. Each shot is detailed with techniques and examples from legendary players like Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rohit Sharma, highlighting their execution and effectiveness in modern cricket.
Orthodox or Conventional Batting Shots
1) Straight Drive
The straight drive, a hallmark of elegance in cricket, is best executed against a full-length delivery on middle or leg stump. Proper alignment of the head, front foot, elbow, and bat face toward the sight screen is key to perfecting this shot. Sachin Tendulkar, famed for his finesse with the straight drive, made this shot legendary. When played skillfully, the ball typically races past the bowler, often resulting in a boundary as fielders are sparsely positioned in this area.
2) On-Drive
The straight drive and on-drive, though often confused by fans and young cricketers, have distinct differences. The straight drive is aimed toward the sight screen, while the on-drive directs the ball between mid-on and mid-wicket, targeting leg-stump deliveries. Executing an on-drive requires precise bat and elbow extension, making it one of the more challenging shots due to LBW risks. Players like Steve Smith and Virat Kohli excel at this complex shot, showcasing its elegance and accuracy.
3) Off-Drive
An off-drive is played by directing a full-length delivery toward mid-off, aligning the head, elbow, and feet with the ball’s path. Typically used against off-stump or middle-stump deliveries, the off-drive is most effective when facing faster deliveries along the off-stump line for better control. Sachin Tendulkar famously mastered this elegant shot, turning it into one of his signature strokes.
4) Cover-Drive Shot
Virat Kohli has revitalized the cover drive, displaying elegance and precision that has helped elevate the shot’s popularity. Known as one of cricket’s most challenging shots, the cover drive requires perfect judgment of full-length deliveries outside the off-stump. Kohli’s impeccable technique—characterized by smooth footwork, full extension, and head stability—reduces the risk of getting caught behind and exemplifies this elegant yet demanding stroke.
5) Square Drive
The square drive, a distinct front-foot drive, is executed when a full-length delivery is pitched outside off-stump, allowing the batter to align properly. Unlike the cover drive (aimed between cover and mid-off), the square drive directs the ball between point and cover. This shot demands precise timing, with players like Joe Root, Steve Smith, Virat Kohli, and Kane Williamson exemplifying its skillful execution.
6) Front Foot Defense
A solid front foot defense is crucial for any batsman to play a variety of shots effectively. This defensive technique helps counter LBWs and bowled dismissals, particularly against fast swing bowlers. When facing a well-paced length ball with swing, a batsman aligns the front foot with the ball’s line and blocks it with a steady bat. Rahul Dravid, known for his precision and control, mastered this essential skill, often using it to neutralize threatening deliveries.
7) Back Foot Defense
The back foot defense is a vital shot, especially for managing pace and bounce on lively pitches. Unlike the forward defense, here the batsman shifts deep into the crease, using the back foot to block deliveries rising above thigh height. This technique is essential for controlling aggressive bowling and provides a solid foundation early in the innings. Effective use of both front and back foot defenses helps batters build rhythm, timing, and confidence, making them essential skills for establishing control at the crease.
8) Back Foot Drive
The back foot punch, also known as the back foot drive, is an essential shot on bouncy pitches, such as those in South Africa and Australia. Executed by shifting weight onto the back foot and aligning off-stump, the batter extends the elbow fully to create power. This technique combines control and force, allowing for a precise, impactful shot. Proper weight transfer from the front to the back foot is key, enabling a controlled and powerful punch, often resulting in well-timed runs.
9) Cut Shot
The cut shot is an aggressive stroke ideal for scoring quick boundaries against short-pitched deliveries outside off-stump, typically on the 5th-6th stump line. Played waist-high or higher, the batter uses a full elbow extension and strikes the ball just in front of the eyes, directing it towards the point region. This shot is highly effective against fast bowlers and requires precise timing and control, making it a staple for players aiming to capitalize on width and bounce. Cricket legends like David Warner, Kumar Sangakkara, Gautam Gambhir, and Virender Sehwag have all displayed exceptional skill with this shot.
10) Pull Shot
The pull shot, a signature move of Rohit Sharma, combines power and timing for explosive results. Ideal for short-pitched deliveries between the middle and leg stumps, this shot demands a high bat lift and a horizontal swing, with a straight elbow at impact. When executed well, it can send the ball soaring for six, offering thrilling scoring opportunities and showcasing a batter’s control and aggression. This powerful shot remains a fan favorite, especially when mastered by players known for precision and strength.
