Forward Press Trigger Movement
Also known as: forward press trigger, front foot press, forward press in cricket, forward press or back and across
A forward press is a small step or weight shift onto the front foot just before the bowler releases the ball. It gets you moving and into line early, especially against spin and on slow pitches. Keep it small so you can still rock back to a short ball.
It is a trigger movement. As the bowler reaches the crease, the batter shifts weight forward and lets the front foot move a short way down the pitch. Some batters only lean the weight and hands forward without moving the feet. The aim is to break the stillness of the stance and be ready to move. The movement should be finished by the time the ball is released.
It is popular against spin. Moving forward early helps you get close to the pitch of the ball and smother the turn. On slow, low pitches it helps you play forward with confidence. Some batters also use it against medium pace when the bowler pitches the ball up. It suits players whose natural strength is driving.
The danger is committing too far forward. A big step leaves little time to get back to a short ball from a fast bowler. It can also lead to LBW if the front pad moves across the line. A simple check is to ask yourself whether you can still rock back. If the answer is no, the step is too big. Many batters choose between this trigger and going back and across based on the bowler and the pitch.
Tips by skill level
Practise the trigger against gentle throwdowns. After each one, check that you could still step back to a short ball.
Use a bigger forward step against slow bowling on a turning pitch and a smaller one against pace. Decide this before the bowler starts their spell.
Example
Facing an off-spinner on a dry pitch, the batter eases onto her front foot as the bowler's arm comes over. She reaches the pitch of the next ball and drives it past mid-off.
Why it matters
The right trigger helps you move early and stay balanced. A forward movement that is too big is a common reason batters get hurried by short balls.
Common mistakes
- Moving so far forward that a short ball arrives before you can get back
- Starting the trigger late and still moving at release
- Taking the front pad across the line of off stump
- Leaning the head and shoulders forward while the weight stays on the heels
Frequently asked questions
Should I forward press or go back and across?
It depends on the bowling and your strengths. A forward press suits spin, slow pitches and batters who like to drive. Going back and across suits pace and short bowling. Many batters use one as their default and adjust to the conditions.
What is a forward press in cricket?
It is a small trigger movement onto the front foot just before the ball is released. The batter shifts weight forward and may move the front foot a short way. It gets you moving and ready to play forward.
Is a forward press good against spin?
Yes, many batters use one against spin. It helps you get close to the pitch of the ball. Keep it small so you can still go back to a short ball.
Related terms
- Back-and-Across Trigger MovementA back-and-across trigger is a small step of the back foot backwards and towards off stump just before the bowler releases the ball. The front foot follows a short way. It lines your head up with off stump and helps you judge what to leave against pace. Finish it before release and keep the step small.
- Playing Spin BowlingTo play spin bowling, watch the bowler's hand to read which way the ball will turn and pick up the length early. Be decisive with your feet. Go right forward to smother the spin at the pitch, or right back to play it late off the pitch. Keep your bat in front of your pad and score by playing with the turn.
- FootworkFootwork in cricket batting is moving the feet into the best position to play each delivery. Moving quickly and correctly to the pitch of the ball is the basis of all good batting.
- Weight TransferWeight transfer in batting is the movement of the batter's bodyweight from back foot to front foot (or vice versa) as the stroke is executed, generating power and setting up correct balance through impact.
- Front-Foot DefenceThe front-foot defence is a defensive batting stroke where the batter strides forward and blocks a good-length ball with a straight, angled bat to keep it down and safe.
- Cricket Batting StanceA good cricket batting stance is balanced and still, with your feet about shoulder-width apart, usually either side of the popping crease. Bend your knees slightly and keep your weight on the balls of your feet. Hold your head still, with your eyes level and looking down the pitch. Side-on, open and raised-bat stances all work if you are balanced at release.
Cricket analysis is in development
Motion Lab does not analyze this sport yet. Keep exploring the terms in this section.