What’s a backlift in batting? The cricket backlift technique is when the batter lifts their bat as the ball is about to be bowled. Think of it like getting ready to hit the ball. The way you lift your bat, or your “backlift”, helps you decide how you’ll play the ball. Different batters might use different backlift styles based on what they like best.

Exploring Different Cricket Backlift Techniques

SBBT – Straight Batting Back-lift Technique

Batting with a straight back-lift means lifting the bat straight up, close to the stumps. Think of it as keeping the bat no wider than the first player in the slip. When you lift the bat, its face might point to the wicket keeper or down to the ground.

Many coaches suggest using this straight lift, especially for new players. Why? It usually gives the batter better control of the shot.

LBBT – Lateral Batting Back-lift Technique

In the lateral batting back-lift, the bat goes up in a wide curve. It’s like lifting the bat towards the second player in the slip. When the bat is lifted fully, the bottom and front of the bat point to the offside, between the slips and the player at point.

Players like Ricky Ponting and Kumar Sangakkara have used this style in the past. It lets batters hit the ball to specific areas. But, it’s not usually suggested for young players. As they get more skilled, they might try this technique if they like it.

Differences Between Backlift or Back Swing?

In cricket, there’s a slight difference between backlift and backswing.

Think of backlift as the batter’s first move when the bowler is about to bowl. It’s getting ready for the ball.

Backswing comes next. It’s when the batter decides how to hit the ball based on where it’ll land. If they want to hit hard, like with a pull shot, they’ll lift the bat high. This is the backswing. After lifting, the batter then swings the bat down to hit the ball. For a softer shot, the backswing is lower.

Simply, backlift is just getting ready, and backswing adds power to the hit.

Can someone swing without lifting the bat first? Not really, especially for beginners. Maybe in fast-paced games, batters might try a big swing for a strong hit, but they still have a bit of backlift.

The Importance of the Cricket Backlift Technique

The backlift gives the batter power to hit the ball. Imagine trying to hit hard without moving the bat first. It wouldn’t work.

Think of a golfer. They always pull their club back before hitting the ball. Just pushing the club forward wouldn’t make the ball go far.

So, while batting has more steps like the backswing, it all starts with the backlift.

High Backlifts VS Low Backlifts?

When you watch pro batters, some lift their bats high and others keep it low. Some even stand like baseball players as the bowler gets ready.

Batters with high lifts, like Graham Gooch in the past or MS Dhoni and Lance Klusener recently, usually aim for powerful hits.

On the other hand, players with short lifts focus on timing. They might not hit as hard, but they can still score well.

To sum it up, high lifts are for strong hits, while low lifts help with timing and defense.

Cricket Backlift Technique: Grip & Stance

The backlift is how a batter gets ready to hit the ball. But before that comes the grip.

There are various ways to hold the bat. The most popular is the V grip. Here, the thumb and first finger of both hands form a “V.” It’s great for straight and vertical shots.

Another style is the O grip. It doesn’t make a V. It might feel more natural when you first hold a bat and is good for cross batted shots. But mastering the V grip is a good idea.

Next is the stance – how a batter stands. The main thing is balance. Batters should balance their weight between both legs. For right-handed batters, the left leg is nearer to the bowler and vice versa for lefties. Being balanced helps play different shots and avoids injuries.

Lastly, there’s the backlift. This is where you lift the bat to hit the ball, and there are various ways to do it based on your style.

Final Thoughts

I’ve played cricket for years but never really thought about my backlift style. I just do what feels natural, which is a straight backlift. But that doesn’t mean I’m doing it the best way, especially since I play at the club level.

Everyone has their own style. Even though I’m used to my way, I could try the lateral technique during practice. Or even lift my bat higher.

For young players, start simple. Use the straight backlift and keep it low. As you get better, try different styles in games and see what fits you best.

Next up, why not read about Cricket’s sneakiest delivery, the Googly Ball. I wrote an article on it and think you’ll enjoy it if you enjoyed this one.