IntermediateIn development
Square Cut
Also known as: cut shot
The square cut is a back-foot, cross-bat stroke played to a short, wide ball outside off stump, slashing it square on the off side toward point.
Given width and bounce, the batter rocks back, frees the arms, and cuts down on the ball with a horizontal bat, using its pace to send it square. Timing and a high contact point are key — cutting a ball that is too full or too close risks dragging it onto the stumps or edging behind. It is one of the most satisfying scoring shots against pace.
Example
Given width outside off, the batter rocks back and square-cuts the ball hard past point for four.
Related terms
- Straight BatPlaying with a straight bat means swinging the bat vertically, in line with the ball’s path — the safest, most orthodox technique for defending and driving balls of a full or good length.
- Pull ShotThe pull shot is a back-foot, cross-bat stroke played to a short-pitched ball, swinging it around to the leg side, typically between mid-wicket and square leg.
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