Glance Shot in Cricket
What is the glance in cricket batting? How the fine glance and leg glance redirect pace bowling to the fine leg region with minimal risk.
The glance is a deflection shot that redirects the ball toward fine leg or backward square leg off a delivery aimed at the batsman's legs or body. Rather than hitting through the ball, the batsman angles the bat face to guide it fine. It is one of the most risk-free ways to score in cricket.
Types of Glance
| Type | Ball line | Direction |
|---|---|---|
| Leg glance | On middle or leg stump, full | Fine leg direction |
| Fine glance | Ball angled into body | Very fine — almost behind the batsman |
| Back-foot glance | Short ball on leg stump | Square or fine leg |
How to Play the Glance
- Get into line with the ball — either front or back foot.
- Angle the bat face toward fine leg — the face opens slightly.
- Allow the ball to come onto the bat; don't play too hard.
- Minimal follow-through — the ball deflects off the face.
- Head still over the ball.
- Wrists stay relaxed to guide rather than hit.
When the Glance Is Used
- Against deliveries pitched on leg stump where there is no room to drive.
- To score off good-length balls when the off side is guarded by the field.
- Against medium-fast bowling when the ball angles into the body.
- By tail-enders looking for singles to rotate strike.
Frequently asked questions
Can you get out to a glance?
Yes — a miscued glance can go straight to fine leg or short fine leg for a catch. The biggest risks are getting too fine and offering a catch to the keeper, or getting underneath the ball and popping it up.
Is the glance different from a flick?
Yes. A glance uses very little power and mainly relies on deflection. A flick involves the wrists actively turning to redirect the ball more powerfully toward the mid-wicket or square leg region.