Agricultural shot

We continue introducing readers to popular cricket terms, and this time, we’re exploring the Agricultural Shot. However, you are unlikely to hear this phrase while watching a top-tier match in the Indian Premier League or the Cricket World Cup.

Agricultural Shot: The Basic Meaning

In cricket, the meaning agricultural shot is often described as unorthodox. Indeed, no official coaching manual includes this type of stroke, nor do coaches teach it to young players. This blow is performed without special technique. Most often, you can see it in amateur cricket, when fans of this sport gather and play on the lawn.

There is a legend that once one athlete swung the bat so hard that the ball landed in cow corner – a deep mid-wicket region on the field. With such strikes, cricketers often hit the ground with the bat. So the expression  has caught on and is now being used.

The advantage of this shot is the sheer power behind it, often sending the ball flying with force. However, its disadvantages are obvious: poor technique, incorrect positioning of the head, body, and feet, and a general lack of control. Even an inexperienced cricket fan can spot its flaws, let alone professional analysts.

So why is it called an agricultural shot? Not only because after a hit, cricketers often spoil the pitch, but also because the direction of the bat resembles a backswing with a scythe.