Block 2: Expanding the shot range (10 Weeks)
This week, players will be learning how to swing the bat with a full, natural motion. The focus is on helping them connect with their instincts—encouraging freedom and power when striking the ball. It's all about getting them comfortable swinging hard and committing fully to their shots.
At this early stage, the most important thing is to build confidence. Avoid overcorrecting or focusing on mistakes. Instead, highlight moments of success and reinforce their efforts to hit the ball with intent. Let them feel what it’s like to hit with power.
Players should aim to complete this activity set twice this week for maximum benefit.
Activity 1: Underarms Straight Balance Holds
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you will face underarm throws and drive the ball straight using a full swing. After each shot, you must hold your finishing position for 2 seconds to test your balance and control through the swing. This promotes stronger base stability and body awareness in the follow-through.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task..
Activity 2: Underarm Spin Throws – Straight Balance Holds
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you will face straight underarm spin throws and hit them back down the ground using a full swing. After each shot, hold your finishing position for 2 seconds to check your balance and stability. This helps reinforce strong foundations and better body control in your straight driving.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 3: Overarm Spin Throws (Straight) – Full Swing with Balance Focus
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you will face overarm spin throws and aim to hit the ball straight back past the bowler using a full swing. After each shot, your goal is to hold your finishing position for 2–3 seconds. This encourages balance, stillness, and control through the swing.
Focus on making clean contact, extending through the straight channel, and then holding your balance. This balance hold will help build awareness of your body's position at the end of the shot and improve the repeatability of your technique.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation of how to complete the task.
Activity 4: Underarm Straight Full Swings Competition (2-Zone)
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this competition-based drill, the batter will face underarm throws and aim to hit the ball straight back past the bowler into one of two zones.
Zone 1 – Wide Gap: A larger target zone down the ground.
Zone 2 – Middle Gap: A tighter, central target between the stumps.
Scoring System:
3 points for hitting the middle gap
1 point for hitting the wider outer zone
Coach gets 2 points if the player misses both zones
First to 15 points wins.
This challenge rewards precision while still encouraging players to commit to their full swing. Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to set up and complete the task.