Over recent years the sweep shot has become more and more popular with batsmen at all levels of the game. Batsmen are starting to realise how important the shot is when facing spin. At professional level it is very rare that successful batsmen are unable to play the shot well.  In one day cricket on used wickets it isn't always easy to use your feet confidently and the sweep is often the better option.  When played well, the sweep shot allows the batsman to;

• Manipulate the field.  Playing the shot successfully once or twice can be enough to force the opposing captain to make field changes which might open up other scoring areas.
• Disrupt the rhythm of the bowler.  The shot is best played to a good length delivery, which is frustrating for the bowler as he then feels he has to alter his length and possibly line.  Again, this can open other up scoring options.
• In my previous post, I mentioned the importance of rotating the strike when playing spin.  The sweep is ideal for this as when played well it allows you to pick up singles with ease.

Even now there can be some opposition to the shot from coaches and managers in junior cricket.  I believe this is wrong and that the sweep shot should be encouraged for young cricketers who have the ability to play it.  However, as I mentioned in my last post, it is vital that the batsmen has taken the time to master the shot properly.  To give you an idea of how long that may take, many experts believe it could take over 10,000 repititions to train your body's muscle memory to perfect a new shot!  An ideal place to start is at one of our cricket coaching courses in Yorkshire.

So, what exactly should you have in mind when practicing the sweep?  I believe there are a few technical points which are crucial to playing the shot consistently well;

• Alignment - It is important the batsman's front foot goes towards the line of the ball.  I have a noticed a tendency amongst young cricketers for their front foot to go too far to the off-side which then causes them to lose balance when playing the shot.  The back leg should also be aligned to the ball.
• Back knee - The back knee should be in contact with the ground when playing the shot.  This will ensure that the batsman's weight is going forwards.  It is vital that you commit yourself fully when playing the sweep.  A half hearted sweep, with weight not fully forward can often end up with a top edge.
• Head position - As with all shots, head position can affect balance.  It is important that the batsman's head is still with eyes level to ensure balance and a good base from which to play the shot. 
• When contact is made the batsman's arms should be fully extended, playing the ball underneath his eyes.
• To keep the ball on the ground and minimize risk, the bat should come through from high to low.  This will ensure the bat face is angled down when contact is made.

If you practice hard, I'm sure the sweep shot will give you more confidence when playing spin this season!

Hope this helps,

Sam