cover drive

A cover drive is a fundamental cricket shot played when the ball is pitched outside off-stump. The batter steps forward, swings the bat in a controlled, sweeping motion toward the covers region (the area between point and mid-off), with the bat face open. The aim is to gently drive the ball along the ground through the cover area, often sending it to the boundary for a four. It requires good timing, balance, and coordination, combining offensive intent with precision to place the ball effectively in the field. The shot is admired for its elegance and textbook technique.