Block 1: Developing the Swings and Shots (10 Weeks)
This week, players will be learning how to play the check drive—a shorter, more controlled swing focused on placement and timing. The goal is to help players build an understanding of how to create the right shape with rhythm.
The focus is on maintaining balance, shape, and connection, allowing players to direct the ball with precision into the intended gap. This introduces a valuable skill that complements their full swing and helps them become more versatile at the crease.
At this stage, it’s important to build comfort and confidence with the movement. Encourage players to stay committed to the movement, make clean contact, and enjoy the feel of a well-controlled shot.
Players should complete this activity set twice this week to reinforce their rhythm and confidence with the check drive.
Activity 1: Drop Feeds (Straight) Check Swing
Repetitions:
15–30 balls
Activity Overview:
The feeder drops the ball for the player to hit full swings aimed between mid on and mid off. The focus is on directional hitting with balance and control.
Coach Tips:
Hold a strong finish position after each shot.
Commit to the swing with a strong back and through swing.
Activity 2: Underarms – Straight Drives (Check Swing)
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, the batter will work on executing a check swing while driving the ball straight down the ground off underarm throws. The emphasis is on using correct footwork patterns—stepping into the ball with control and holding a strong position while keeping the swing compact and balanced.
This drill helps develop precision and timing for players learning how to play straight with intent but restraint.
Activity 3: Sidearms – Straight Drives
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this drill, players face sidearm throws and focus on executing straight drives back past the bowler. The goal is to develop solid contact, efficient transfer of weight, and precise footwork. Players are encouraged to reduce stride length, allowing for late movement into the ball, and then drive their weight back through the ball toward the target.
A key technical emphasis here is staying balanced and still through contact, ensuring the swing is clean and controlled. This drill helps build repeatable mechanics for hitting through the V with power and consistency.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 4: Sidearms Cover Drives – Check Swing
Duration: 10–20 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
This activity is designed to help you develop your check swing when playing the cover drive against sidearm pace throws. You'll focus on staying compact through the shot, holding a strong, controlled shape on contact, and hitting with less follow-through.
Rather than swinging freely, your job here is to "check" the shot at the moment of contact — this helps with precision, placement, and shot control, especially when the ball is closer to the stumps. Maintain good head position and footwork, but stay tight in the upper body.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation of how to complete the task..