Fancy shots, fast runs: T20 cricket reshapes batting DNA

Vadodara: For decades, the go-to mantra for budding cricketers was simple: "Play with a straight bat, hit in the V, keep the ball down." But the rise of T20 cricket has turned that wisdom on its head. A new generation of players is now embracing audacious, unorthodox shots — driven by the demands of the shortest format and the success of IPL stars like Suryakumar Yadav and Rishabh Pant."T20 cricket is all about innovation along with technique," said Kedar Devdhar, former Baroda Ranji captain who now coaches young players. "Aspiring batsmen want to master the ramp shot, the reverse scoop — shots that surprise the field and bring in quick runs."While traditional batting foundations remain part of coaching curriculums, the appetite for innovation is growing. "I trained for years in traditional batting techniques," Vishwas Patel told TOI, a left-handed batter in the Baroda Cricket Association's Under-19 team. "But in T20s, it's about scoring fast. I've been working on unconventional shots in the nets and using them in matches."Patel credits the influence of Indian stars for this shift. "When players like Surya Kumar and Pant score with such shots, it motivates us to learn and try the same."Techniques like the reverse drive, scoop shot, and reverse pull are now staples in T20 training routines. Coaches are adapting. "Many young players now come to us asking to learn fancy shots," said Ketan Panchal, who trains players at Motibaug Cricket Club. "We teach them, but only after making sure their basics are strong."At Vadodara Cricket Academy, head coach Harendra Patel agrees. "T20 cricket has changed everything. Youngsters want to shine in leagues like the IPL. They're chasing quick runs, big scores, and recognition. As coaches, we have to evolve too."Yet, the veterans remain cautious. Devdhar warned that flashy shots shouldn't come at the cost of technique. "These strokes are for T20s. In ODIs and Tests, patience and orthodox batting still win games."