The sweep and the reverse sweep are two batting strokes that are not commonly used, especially the rarely used reverse sweep. However, both shots can be used in certain batting situations and are an effective way to score runs and keep the scoreboard going.

There is a high element of risk with the sweep shot, so good judgment and excellent timing are essential. Avoid playing the sweep and reverse sweep early in your innings, especially on straight deliveries, as it’s not a good idea to play it until you are attentive and know how you are playing the pitch and what the bowler is doing. Like for example, if the ball stayed low, it would be pretty easy to misjudge and LBW or throw, which you definitely want to avoid, so be patient and play yourself first.

Both the sweep and the reverse sweep are crossover shots and should ideally be played for slow pitches that are of good length and not too full. To play the orthodox sweep shot, first wait for the ball to come loose before making any move – DO NOT PREMEDIT THE SHOT!

Once you’ve determined that the ball is there to play the sweep shot, move your front foot as far down the wicket as possible toward the delivery of the ball. As you go forward, bend both knees simultaneously so your whole body is low, letting your back knee touch the ground to act as an additional base of support. Try to stay balanced and relaxed. Bring the bat down from the opposite side and through the ball to the side of the leg and aim to hit it either in front of or behind the square leg. You can roll your wrists over the ball as you hit to help keep it on the ground. Try to have your arms fully extended when you touch the ball.

To play the reverse sweep, get into the same position as for the orthodox sweep, however this time, lower the bat and cross the side of the leg to the opposite side, so that you aim to hit the ball through the box. from the ravine This shot requires very good coordination and timing, as you have to turn the bat so that the face of the bat faces away from you at the point of contact without altering your grip.

Common problems:

-Premeditate the shot- Decide to play the shot before the shooter has thrown the ball. Wait until the ball is released from the bowler’s hand before deciding to play the shot.

-Playing the sweep too early in the innings before laying the eye. Wait until you are ready and know how the bowling is playing and what the bowler is doing before attempting the shot.

-Trying to hit the ball too hard. Good timing and technique are better and more effective as you need to reduce risk as much as possible.

-Play the shot on pitches that are either too full or too short, so good judgment of length is required.

Remember that the sweep and reverse sweep are quite difficult strokes to master and carry quite a bit of risk, so make sure that if you intend to use them, you practice the strokes at the nets and in training to familiarize yourself with the stroke so you know when to hit it. play it; so that when you do get to use them you will be confident and skilled enough to do so.