Just like the cover drive, perfecting the technique of a square drive is an art form. In this blog, you will understand the basics of how to master the perfect square drive. Technique over speed, always. Let’s start batting like the greats.

After learning about the cover drive in the last post, today’s blog post talks about the amazing square drive. Essentially, these are strokes that are normally played on the front foot. Therefore, it is important to focus on your balance, position behind the batting crease and most importantly, the execution of the stroke.

One important tip before playing the square drive is to read the nature of the wicket. It becomes tricky to play the square drive when the ball is pitched short and angled towards you. Primarily, the square drive is considered ideal when the ball is pitched a little wider than the off stump. As for the technique, it’s important to have a complete extension of your arms.

Have a balanced posture with your eyes focused on the ball. As you notice the ball pitched a little wider than the off stump, shift your weight on the front foot and play the perfect square drive. It’s important how you grip the bat when you play the square drive. For the best technique, the top hand generates the maximum force. The bottom hand is used just to guide the ball towards its intended target. Now, if you want to play the square drive along the ground, make sure you present the full face of the bat, however, towards the ground.

As for the next blog post, we learn to execute the square cut. Stay tuned!