Opening the batting

[Easto241091]

Generally u want a low backlift for opening the batting and generally just work the ball around, turning the strike over.
It's important to play straight, especially early on in the innings. Also leaving the ball go is important so that no unecessary edges occur. Playing the ball late is also vital. Light bats i believe are good to have facing the new ball as they are easier to swing.

 

[Goughy]

When opening would it be better to use a heavier bat or lighter bat? Whats the advantage of using an oval handled bat?

I like a lighter bat when opening as I find it tough to get in good positions hooking and pulling against the quicks with a heavier bat.

 

[jathu]

I was wondering...whilst the ball is still new would it be better to play a uppercut or a cross batted cut shot?

 

[Uppercut]

I'd go cross batted. That way if you only get half of it it'll still go for four over the slips. Whichever comes off most often for you though.

 

[alvarez]

Im an opening batsmen and take guard Centre to off, a bit different, but I feel much more comfortable standing there as I used to get bowled on off a fair bit. I think it's essential and opener posseses goog horizontal bat shots such as the pull, cut and to a lesser extent the hook. Other than that, a solid forward and backward defence and you should be fine.