Cricket Batting Technique — Defence, Footwork and Shot Selection

Batting technique is the set of physical movements and decisions a batter makes from the moment the bowler begins their run-up to the moment the ball is played. Elite technique does not guarantee success — but it gives batters the range and reliability to succeed across all conditions and formats. Understanding the basics reveals why some batters look technically superior even before they score a run.

Forward and Back Foot Defence

Forward defence: the batter steps toward the pitch of the ball, presenting the full face of the bat and playing with soft hands (not gripping too tightly), deadening the ball into the ground. Used for full-length deliveries when not looking to attack. Back foot defence: the batter steps back and across the crease to play the ball late off a short-pitched delivery, with the bat angled down to avoid edges. These two defensive movements are the foundation of Test batting technique.

Footwork

Good footwork allows a batter to get to the pitch of the ball (moving toward the bowler's end) or create space by going back and across. Against spin: quick feet allow the batter to get to the pitch of the ball and drive — reducing the spin's effect. Against pace: back-and-across movement creates time and space to play short-pitched balls or cut square. Poor footwork — staying rooted to the crease — limits a batter's shot options and exposes the stumps.

Shot Selection

Shot selection is the decision about which shot to play (or whether to leave the ball). Elite batters leave wide deliveries confidently (knowing they are not a LBW risk). They play aggressively to balls in their 'hitting zone' (typically half-volley or short of good length on their strength side). Poor shot selection — playing across the line to an off-stump delivery, or swinging hard at a good-length ball — produces the most dismissals at every level.

Technique in Tests vs T20s

Test technique prioritises survival: batters are willing to play 10 balls without scoring to negate a dangerous spell. T20 technique prioritises attack: batters use switch-hits, scoops, and ramp shots that expose the stumps but maximise scoring. Many T20 specialists have weaker Test defences because they've never needed to develop them. Conversely, great Test batters like Virat Kohli and Steve Smith can also perform in T20s because their footwork and ball-reading give them the foundation for any format.