The straight drive is played on the front foot by easing the ball back in the opposite direction to the delivery.

• An overpitched delivery to the middle or off stump is the perfect opportunity to play the straight drive.
• Relax your body and assume a balanced stance.
• Raise your bat with a high backswing.
• Step forward with your front foot landing close to the pitch of the ball and toes in line with the delivery.
• Bend your front knee and lean your weight forward.
• Present the bowler with the straight face of the bat continuing upward in an arc.
• Work with your top hand, leading with the elbow, and lend support with your bottom hand.
• If the ball is pitching in good length, you can step out to drive it forward along the ground.
• If it pitches on a good length, you can play a straight drive off your back foot.
• You can also roll your wrist to let the bat continue in an arc over your front shoulder.