Block 2: Expanding the shot range (10 Weeks)
In this week’s session, players will be developing their ability to drive through the offside, specifically through cover, extra cover, and mid off, when facing pace bowling.
The goal is to help players recognise line and length, get into strong positions, and execute full, balanced swings to consistently hit the ball into these classic driving zones. Activities will target the footwork and bat path required to access these areas confidently under pressure.
This is about playing with shape, commitment, and balance, rather than guiding or steering the ball. By the end of the session, players should feel more capable of applying a full swing to offside deliveries and controlling where the ball travels in front of square.
Activity 1: Underarm Check Swing Cover Drive
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you'll face underarm throws and focus on playing a check swing cover drive. The goal is to direct the ball along the ground through the cover region with control and precision.
This drill encourages you to hold your shape, stay balanced through contact, and place the ball with intent rather than force. Use the thrower's pace to guide the shot and focus on hitting cleanly through the line of the ball.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 2: Underarm Full Swing Cover Drives
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you will face underarm spin throws and aim to hit the ball along the ground between mid off and mid on using a full swing. This drill is designed to build your ability to control the ball into the straight gaps while maintaining strong balance and body alignment.
It helps reinforce footwork positioning and swing direction when playing against spin through the straight channel.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 3: Underarm Cover Drives Swing Decision Making
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you’ll face spin throws and aim to hit the ball straight back past the bowler using a full swing. The objective is to connect cleanly through the line of the ball, developing balance, strong swing mechanics, and control into the straight channel.
This drill encourages players to transfer their weight into the shot and commit fully to the swing, helping develop confidence and power when playing against spin.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 4: Underarm Cover Drives Swing Decision Making
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this competition-based drill, the player will face underarm throws and decide whether to play a check swing or a full swing based on the line of the ball.
The setup includes two scoring gaps:
Cover Gap: For full swing drives
Extra Cover Gap: For check swing drives
The challenge is for the player to match the correct swing type to the line of the ball and hit it through the corresponding gap.
Scoring System:
2 points if the player hits the correct gap with the correct swing
1 point if the player hits a gap with the wrong swing
Coach gets 2 points if the player misses the shot
Winning Condition:
First to 15 points wins the game.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.