How to Hit Big Shots in Cricket

There is no greater thrill for a batsman in cricket than to see the ball sailing away over the rope for the maximum six runs. Sometimes this can involve a carry of 100 yards or more. If you get the shot wrong, then you can be out caught by a fielder. So it is important to know how to play the big shots and when to play them.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take your guard. Keep watching the bowler as he runs up and releases the ball. Keep your eye on the ball.

    • 2

      If the ball is pitched -- bounces -- short, then move onto your back foot. If the ball is pitched up, then move onto your front foot, pointing your foot in the direction that the ball lands.

    • 3

      Play a hook shot for the ball that is pitched short toward the leg side and rising to around shoulder height when it is within reach of your bat. Swing the bat in a horizontal motion so that you are connecting with the ball when it is in front of your eyes. With your bottom hand dominating, angle the face of the bat so the ball will have an elevated trajectory after contact. Swing through and complete the shot so that the bat blade finishes behind your back. The ball will travel in the direction to your left, possibly slightly behind you.

    • 4

      Play a pull shot for the ball that is pitched short on the stumps or leg side and bouncing at around waist height. Swing the bat in a horizontal motion, straightening the arms as you connect with the ball in between your waist and your chest height. To give the ball elevation, let your bottom hand dominate the shot and angle the bat blade so that you are hitting the ball in the air rather than on the ground. Swing through and complete the shot so that the bat blade finishes behind your back.

    • 5

      Play a lofted drive for the ball that is pitched up. Putting your foot toward the bounce of the ball, swing through the line of the ball, accounting for any ball movement off the pitch or in the air. Keep your head down and eyes on the ball. Let your bottom hand dominate and hit the ball with the bat in an upright position so that the ball flies in the direction that you aim the bat. Follow through and complete the shot with the bat blade behind your back.