As a batter, it’s important to practise a wide-array of cricketing shots for the best experience. After reading this blog, you will get a clear understanding of how to practise and master the cover drive technique. Let’s dig right in.

Now that we’ve learnt to play the straight drive and the on-drive, in this blog post, we move on to something different – playing the cover drive. Considered as the most stylish shot ever, playing the perfect cover drive requires precision technique at the highest level. With your position, follow through and balance involved, it takes a whole lot of effort to master the cover drive.

Cover drive – The technique

More than the shot itself, it’s about how you perfect the technique. From your stance, batting grip to the follow through, everything matters. Here is the best part – the cover drive can be played both on the front foot and the back foot. Ideally, it’s best to play the cover drive when the ball is pitched a little outside the off stump for a right-hand batter.

The three important aspects of executing the perfect cover drive are:

1. Body position in line with the delivery
2. Cover drive
3. Follow through

As for the technique, stay relaxed, practise a balanced stance with your head still and eyes focused on the delivery. Now, based on where you look and your head position, it becomes easier to direct the ball towards its intended target. Also, it gets even easier to shift your weight in case you decide to play the cover drive on the front foot.

Before the ball is released, with a high back-lift, quickly get into position. Just like the straight drive or the on-drive, the perfect cover drive is played along the ground. Be it on the front foot or the back foot, the ideal cover drive is played below your eyes. Hold the handle firmly using your top hand while the bottom hand is nice and loose. As the ball arrives, depending on the length, adjust your position and execute the shot accordingly.

Again, it’s all about the extension of your arms. As the aim is to strike the ball between the cover and the extra cover region, proper extension of your arms can help you direct the ball with utmost precision. Not to forget, extension of your arms while playing the cover drive makes the shot look even more stylish. Present the full face of the bat and position your body in line with the cover region and be patient. Striking the ball early might end up in a possible catch in the infield. Keep in mind that playing the cover drive too early can compromise your position.

Finally, try to execute the cover drive by shifting your weight on the front foot as the ball arrives. The idea is to play the ball along the ground, always!

As for the next blog, it’s all about the square drive. Stay tuned!