T20 Specialty Shots
Modern T20 cricket has revolutionized batting with innovative shots designed to score quickly and find gaps in unconventional areas. These high-risk, high-reward shots require practice and confidence to execute effectively.
Note: These are advanced shots that should only be attempted after mastering the fundamentals. Practice extensively in nets before using in matches.
Dilscoop
AdvancedAn innovative shot scooping the ball over the wicketkeeper's head.
When to play: Play against full deliveries when wicketkeeper is up.
Step-by-Step
- Get low with bent knees
- Open bat face completely
- Scoop ball over your head
- Use the pace of the ball
- Trust the shot and commit
Video Tutorials: Dilscoop
Top recommended videos to master this technique
How to Play a Sweep Shot
Sikana English
The sweep — the base technique from which the dilscoop evolved
How to Play a Reverse Sweep
Sikana English
Another unorthodox shot that disrupts bowling lines
How to Play a Flick Shot
Sikana English
Wrist work required for the scoop — learn it through the flick first
Learn the Grip and Stance
Sikana English
Grip adjustments needed for the scoop shot execution
Backlift and Footwork
Sikana English
Getting into position for the dilscoop requires precise footwork
Pro Tip
Invented by Tillakaratne Dilshan - it's all about using the pace.
— Tillakaratne Dilshan
Common Mistake
Not getting low enough, resulting in a skied catch.
Switch Hit
AdvancedSwitching stance mid-delivery to play as opposite-handed batter.
When to play: Play against spinners to disrupt their line.
Step-by-Step
- Wait for bowler to release
- Switch stance quickly
- Change hand positions
- Play the shot as if opposite-handed
- Commit fully to the switch
Video Tutorials: Switch Hit
Top recommended videos to master this technique
How to Play a Reverse Sweep
Sikana English
The reverse sweep — a stepping stone toward the switch hit
How to Play a Sweep Shot
Sikana English
Master the sweep before attempting the switch hit
How to Play a Cover Drive
Sikana English
The switch hit is essentially a cover drive played left-handed
Learn the Grip and Stance
Sikana English
Understanding grip changes for switching your batting stance
Backlift and Footwork
Sikana English
Footwork transitions for changing your stance mid-delivery
Pro Tip
The key is late movement - wait until the bowler commits.
— David Warner
Common Mistake
Switching too early and getting found out.
Helicopter Shot
AdvancedMS Dhoni's signature shot - a powerful flick with bat rotating.
When to play: Play to yorkers and full deliveries at the death.
Step-by-Step
- Get deep in crease
- Make room by moving leg side
- Meet ball with hard hands
- Rotate bat like helicopter blade
- Follow through over shoulder
Video Tutorials: Helicopter Shot
Top recommended videos to master this technique
How to Play a Flick Shot
Sikana English
The flick — the base wrist technique that powers the helicopter shot
How to Play a Pull Shot
Sikana English
The pull — another bottom-hand dominant shot like the helicopter
How to Play an On Drive
Sikana English
The on drive footwork applies to the helicopter shot setup
Learn the Grip and Stance
Sikana English
Bottom hand grip strength is key to the helicopter shot
Backlift and Footwork
Sikana English
Getting into position for the helicopter requires quick footwork to yorker-length balls
Pro Tip
Strong bottom hand is essential - this is a power shot.
— MS Dhoni
Common Mistake
Not getting enough power through the ball.