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India's number 1 batter Virat Kohli has been known for playing the best cover drives in world cricket and he has been very successful playing those on a big stage despite getting dismissed regularly in the longer format of the game. Here we will see the steps to play cover drive shots like Virat Kohli, which has made him a number 1 batter in all three formats of the game.
Steps to play Cover Drive like Virat Kohli:
1. Stance and Position:
Virat Kohli usually starts with an open stance and his foot will be aligned to the off-side. This has allowed Kohli to access the cover region more easily and the head should be positioned in such a way that weight gets distributed evenly.
2. Head Position and Balance:
As mentioned in the previous point, it's important to have your head steady and level to ensure it's aligned with the ball and the batter must have a strong base and excellent balance throughout the shot.
3. Footwork:
As the ball is delivered, Kohli takes a small stride towards the line of the ball moving his front foot forward and that helps him to get into the ideal position to play cover drive. Practicing this footwork and weight transfer will help you to play that shot better.
4. Timing and Shot execution:
As the ball reaches the desired spot, he extends his arms and meets the ball with the full face of the bat. Kohli allows the ball to come into his hitting zone and ensures he meets the ball with the middle of the bat.
5. Wrist Control:
Virat Kohli has excellent wrist control which would enable him to direct the ball precisely where he wants. Kohli before making contact with the ball ensures he rolls his wrists slightly to keep the ball along the ground and find gaps in the field.
6. Follow-through:
Virat Kohli has a smooth and balanced follow-through technique. Virat Kohli after making contact with the ball extends his arms fully and completes the shot with high follow-through ensuring that the bat finishes pointing in the direction of the shot.
Check out some of the best compiled cover drives by Virat Kohli here - Kohli's cover drives
