James Lillywhite's Cricketers' Annual 1883

H I N T SO N B A T T I N G. 1 1 Cricket Field ,' on the other hand, advises the adoption of an entirely different plan, and his recommendations m y own experience induces me cordially to endorse . Indeed , the latter writer has a very powerful case to support his side ofthe question . He maintains that the knee should be kept firm and rigid , as it is only then that the muscles can be relaxed and ready for sudden action . In this respect , however , much maybe learnt by watching the attitude of a good batsman. To mymind the facility of acquiring a good position is a valuable gift , to which I cannot but think too slight importance is recorded . The following diagram , which I have been permitted to use by the proprietors of The Cricket Field ,' in illustration of the present article , will serve to demon- strate to some extent myideas , although special attention must be given to the note thereto appended . P R E P A R I N G F O RA C T I O N * Takeup a good position on guard after the style of the batsman in the diagram . Be careful to study what is easy and natural , rather than aim at neatness and elegance , as without thought , the latter is very often 'the conse- quenceofthe former. It is in this craving for effect that so manybatsmen do themselves , in m y opinion , so much injustice . You cannot take the art of batting by storm , nor master it in a single lesson . Hence application must be ungrudgingly and unsparingly given , and desultory practice carefully avoided . First acquire a position that suits you and is at the same time not incorrect , and then, bythe aid of care and practice , preserve it until it becomes a confirmed attitude . It is by this means alone that an evil habit will be escaped and much after -labour and pain be spared to the young beginner . M yown theory on the best position for a batsman I now propose to state , with the feeling that it has enjoyed , at least in some degree , the benefit of success . Stand then, I say to the * Thetoes are too muchbefore the wicket , andthe foot is hardly within the crease . Fore-shortening suits our illustration better than artistic effect .