by Richard Pybus
(Callum, Australia)
Ricky Ponting and his signature Pull Shot
Hi, I’m 16 years old and am not quite sure how I should face up. My main strengths are driving on the front foot from mid off to fine leg and pulling (I am working on cutting etc.). I’ve tried high and short back lifts, different trigger movements and different stances but nothing is quite working the way I would like it to.
I was wondering if there is any specific way to take guard based on my relative strengths and weaknesses and also to keep as balanced as possible and be still when the bowler releases the ball etc.
Hi Callum, like I say to all the players I coach, keep it as simple as possible.
In your desire to play better you’re over thinking and making too complex the process of scoring runs. In looking at your guard, set up, triggers and back lifts you are distracting yourself from the real goal, to watch the ball and score a run off each ball. As Ricky Ponting said, his first thought is to hit a four, if it isn’t possible, then a three, a two, a single … and if it is a really good ball, just respect it, leave it or defend it.
If you want a good model to copy then check out Ricky Ponting, Sachin Tendulkar or A.B.de Villiers on youtube, just make your stance and set up in the crease as simple as theirs. Take the best bits you like and then copy them, after a while they’ll become part of your game.
Taking guard, two leg or middle will set you up to play all round the wicket, its the intent to score which is the important part.
Batting Skills: Work on your basics, cut, drive and pull, hit lots of balls on these shots, work with a partner, coach or parent. Then work on defence, but when you get bowled a good ball, practice playing it with soft hands so the ball drops close to you and you can get off strike by taking a quick single. Keep the strike ticking over. If a bowler bowls you a great over then respect it, be patent and get to the next over.
Game Plan: Sort out the first part of your innings, getting in, watching the ball closely, aim to get one run, then five runs, then 10 and focus till you get your first big goal of 20 or 30 runs and then start all over again, keep setting little goals to keep you focused and working with your partner to achieve your team goals.
Keep it simple.
Best wishes Coach
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About Richard Pybus
I'm Richard Pybus, I've coached Pakistan, Bangladesh, Middlesex, Titans and the Cape Cobras in South Africa and the goal of this site is to help you to play winning cricket.