The secret about playing stylish cricket shots is that more than raw power, it’s all about the timing and the technique. The last blog about the pull shot was an interesting one. Today, we delve into the power of technique in the classic late cut.

There are cricketing shots that require brute power and there are some that need nothing more than precision technique and timing. The last blog post about the pull shot was definitely more on technique than power. Today’s post, unlike the pull shot is more about precision on the back foot.

In the case of the late cut, the idea is to play the ball as late as possible. However, ensure that you read the line and length of the delivery. Playing the late cut when the ball is closer to the middle or the leg stump is a risky idea as it might cramp you up for room. With a balanced stance and eyes focused on the ball, shift your weight on the back foot and rather than striking the ball hard, direct the ball towards the third man.

The best part about the late cut is that you can either open the face of the bat at the last minute or wait for the ball and use your wrists to guide the ball to the third man position. However, if you get the line of the delivery wrong, there is a high chance of getting bowled. Therefore, ensure you get your position spot on.

Now, what happens when the batter is facing spin bowling? The technique stays the same. Have a balanced stance, shift your weight on the back foot and guide the ball to the 3rd man. Remember, for perfect timing when it comes to the late cut, full extension of your arms is important.

It goes without saying that practise can help you move that much closer towards perfection. For the next blog, we learn the sweep shot.