Like how we learnt to master the batting grip along with the perfect stance in the last blog post, today, we learn all about the front foot defence. After this blog, stay rest assured that you will be equipped with all the information to master the forward defence!

Perfecting the forward defence

The forward defence stroke is one of the shots that requires precision technique. The objective here is to block the ball instead of scoring runs. Generally, the forward defence shot is ideal when the ball is pitched full around the middle and the off stump.

While playing the forward defence, the position of your front foot is key.

Note: The three most important aspects of a forward defence stroke are:

1. Your posture and feet position

2. Your follow through

3. The shot itself

Relax your body and have a balanced posture with your eyes facing horizontally towards the ball. Once the ball is released, take a stride forward, lean in front with your hands and shoulder in line with the delivery. Also, for the forward defence shot, as you move forward to guard the ball, the aim is to play the ball along the ground.

An important part of playing the forward defence is the position of your arms. Ideally, your arms should be in front of the bat with your eyes pointing down. In addition to this, once you get into the shot, ensure that you shift your weight slightly on the front foot in order to avoid losing balance. For the forward defence, make sure you grip the handle of the bat not too tight. This can affect the follow through and impact overall technique.

Next, keep your arms close to your body forming a diamond shape throughout the shot. By keeping the face of the bat angled towards the ground, you can ensure it’s played along the ground so you don’t end up losing your wicket. Remember, the key to playing the perfect forward defence shot is to practise and stay consistent. As for the next blog post, we learn the back foot defence!