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Tennis ball cricket is not just a pastime; it's a passion in many parts of India and beyond. Played in gullies, fields, and competitive leagues like the Dream League of India (DLI), this thrilling version of cricket is known for big shots and electrifying moments. One of the most exciting elements? Hitting a six.
While it may look easy when top players launch the ball into the sky, hitting sixes in tennis ball cricket requires the right technique, timing, and mindset—especially since tennis balls behave differently than leather balls.
In this guide, we'll break down exactly how to hit sixes consistently and confidently in tennis ball cricket.
Before you even take your stance, your bat matters.
Use a lightweight bat specially designed for tennis ball cricket.
Look for a bat with a thick sweet spot and a wider blade.
A lighter bat ensures faster swing and better bat speed—crucial for clearing the boundary.
Avoid heavy wooden bats used in leather ball cricket; they slow down your swing and reduce control.
Your grip and stance form the base of power-hitting.
Grip: Hold the bat firmly but not too tightly. Your bottom hand should provide power, and your top hand should control the direction.
Stance: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and weight evenly distributed.
Stay balanced and alert to adjust to unexpected bounce or pace.
Pro tip: Keep your eyes level and head still for better timing.
Many players make the mistake of swinging too hard. In tennis ball cricket, where the ball is light, timing is everything.
Watch the ball closely till the last second.
Swing in rhythm with the ball’s pace.
Get under the ball to create lift, especially on full deliveries.
Remember: A well-timed shot with medium power travels farther than a mistimed power hit.
Not every ball is meant to go for six. Choose your shots wisely.
Ideal deliveries for sixes:
Full tosses
Half-volleys
Overpitched deliveries
Short balls if you're good with pull or hook shots
Avoid swinging at yorkers or wide deliveries—they often lead to mishits.
Train your eye to spot hittable balls early, so you’re ready to launch them.
If you want to hit sixes consistently, you need to get good at playing the ball in the air.
Straight drive over the bowler (safest and most effective)
Inside-out over covers
Flick over midwicket
Pull or hook shot for short balls
Use a high backlift and follow through with your shot to generate lift and direction.
It’s not just about your hands—your entire body contributes to hitting a six.
Use your hips and shoulders to generate rotation.
Transfer your weight from the back foot to the front foot as you swing.
Let your non-dominant shoulder guide the bat upward in a fluid motion.
Think of the six as a full-body movement—not just a wild bat swing.
Train with heavier tennis balls or tape balls to build strength and improve shot execution.
Practicing with a heavier ball builds wrist and forearm strength.
When you switch to a lighter ball in matches, the bat feels faster and easier to swing.
Simulate match scenarios while practicing. Set goals like “hit three sixes in five balls” to sharpen your big-hitting mindset.
Smarter players always read the field before going for the big hit.
Target gaps in the field.
Know the shortest boundary on the ground and use it to your advantage.
If there’s wind, use it to carry the ball further in the direction of the breeze.
Good awareness helps you place sixes, not just power them.
Even if the scoreboard is pressuring you to hit big, don’t panic.
Take a deep breath before each shot.
Back your instincts, but play smart.
One well-timed six can turn the game—don’t force every ball.
The best power hitters combine aggression with control.
Watch tournaments like the Dream League of India (DLI) or local tennis ball matches.
Study how experienced players pick their deliveries.
Observe their stance, swing, and follow-through.
Emulate the techniques of your favorite hitters in your own practice.
Learning from top performers gives you real-world insight into what works.
Hitting a six in tennis ball cricket is one of the most satisfying feelings a batter can experience. With the right bat, stance, timing, and mindset, you can become a consistent six-hitter—not just a lucky one.
Whether you're preparing for a friendly match or eyeing the top prize in your local league, these techniques will help you step up your game and dominate the pitch.
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