'Sweep, Reverse-sweep And Lap Shots Are Still Works In Progress', Says Smriti Mandhana

'Sweep, reverse-sweep and lap shots are still works in progress', says Smriti Mandhana (Image Source: IANS)

In The Nets: India women’s vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has said she is working on expanding her repertoire of shots, which can come handy for her in future. In the ongoing multi-format series against South Africa, left-handed opener Smriti is enjoying a purple patch.

She has amassed 343 runs in three ODIs at Bengaluru, which India won and als got the Player of the Series award. Smriti went on to hit a remarkable 149 runs in her only innings of the one-off Test at Chennai, which India won by ten wickets.

"Having more shots in your arsenal is beneficial, especially since a straight bat allows me to access all regions of the field. However, I have considered adding more shots. The sweep, reverse-sweep, and lap shots are still works in progress. I'm not fully comfortable with reverse sweeps yet, but I aim to be soon," said Smriti on JioCinema's 'In The Nets' show.

Smriti also emphasised on the fundamentals of her batting posture needed to nail her elegant cover drives. "As a batter, a stable base is essential, whether you're right-handed or left-handed. For me, the distance between my feet should match my shoulder width, ensuring my head stays centered.

"Having more shots in your arsenal is beneficial, especially since a straight bat allows me to access all regions of the field. However, I have considered adding more shots. The sweep, reverse-sweep, and lap shots are still works in progress. I'm not fully comfortable with reverse sweeps yet, but I aim to be soon," said Smriti on JioCinema's 'In The Nets' show.

Smriti signed off by saying there is always a continuous need for improvement as a cricket player. "No cricketer can claim to be 100% complete. There's always room for growth, and it's all about the right mindset. You can have numerous shots, but without the right mental approach, success remains elusive."