Pull Shot in Cricket
How to play the pull shot in cricket — technique, timing, and when to play this attacking back-foot stroke against short-pitched deliveries.
The pull shot is an attacking stroke played against a short-pitched delivery that rises to waist or chest height. The batsman pivots on the back foot and swings the bat horizontally through the ball, directing it toward the leg side. It is a powerful, instinctive shot that can turn a difficult delivery into a boundary.
When to Play the Pull
- Short-pitched delivery rising to waist or chest height.
- Ball in a comfortable hitting zone — not rising so sharply that it risks a top-edge.
- When the bowler has not placed a fine leg or deep backward square (field gap).
- Against bowlers who are not varying pace — predictable bouncers can be pulled with authority.
How to Play the Pull Shot
- Rock back — back foot moves back and across toward the stumps.
- Create space between the body and the ball — don't cramp the shot.
- Bat swings horizontally from the off side to the leg side.
- Contact made well in front of the body.
- Eyes watch the ball all the way.
- Roll the wrists at contact to keep the ball down.
| Ball height | Recommended response |
|---|---|
| Below waist | Leave or back defensive |
| Waist to chest | Pull shot — ideal zone |
| Head height | Duck/sway or hook (high risk) |
| Above head | Duck — leave the ball |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the pull and the hook?
The pull is played to a ball between waist and chest height, in front of square. The hook is played to a ball at head height, often going behind square toward fine leg — a riskier shot.
Who plays the best pull shot?
Viv Richards, Ricky Ponting, and Rohit Sharma are widely cited. Sharma in particular is considered one of the most authoritative pull-shot players in modern cricket.