The batsman's job is to score as many runs as possible.
But to build an innings, a batsman needs sound judgement to work out which deliveries to defend, leave or score off.
Even top class batsmen give their wicket away because of poor shot selection, so it's not an easy science.
The batsman has approximately 12 shots to choose from either side of the wicket.
So stroke selection depends on the line, length and speed of a delivery.
There are three main lines:
Off stump and outsideMiddle stumpLeg stump and outside And there are five main lengths of delivery:
Bouncer/long hopShort of a lengthGood lengthFull length/half volleyFull toss For the best chance of building an innings, a batsman needs to move their feet backwards or forwards to get into the best position to play a stroke.
BACK FOOT STROKES
A shorter length delivery will usually be played on the back foot.
The main back foot shots are:
Hook shotPull shotSquare cutBack defence The hook, pull and square cut are cross-batted shots where the arms are fully extended for maximum power.
The hook and pull are usually played to deliveries on middle and leg stump, while the square cut is played to a ball outside off stump.
The leg glance and drive can also be played on the back foot.
FRONT FOOT STROKES
A fuller length delivery will normally be played on the front foot.
The main front foot shots are:
Off driveStraight driveOn driveSweep shot~RS~q~RS~~RS~z~RS~48~RS~)
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