Ranking 10 unique and signature shots by famous cricketers

Cricket is a game of skill and adaptability. While many cricketers develop different styles of play, either defensive or attacking based on the match situation, certain players become synonymous with specific shots that fans eagerly wait to witness. These signature strokes often define a player’s elevated presence on the field. Here, let us take a look at 10 iconic and unique cricket shots.

In this article, CricTracker lists down 10 such unique shots that became synonymous to many cricketers over the years of their respective international careers.

10. Virender Sehwag — Upper Cut

Indian opener Virender Sehwag was known for his fearless approach, and his upper cut improved that mindset. He often used this shot to counter short balls angled outside off stump and slashing them over third man with big instinct. It became a symbol of his attacking philosophy. Sehwag had been a successful all-format player for the Indian team before calling it quits. He still stands as one of the best openers in Indian cricket history.

9. Kevin Pietersen — Switch Hit

England cricketer Kevin Pietersen pioneered the switch hit, a revolutionary shot where he would change stance mid-delivery. It was initially controversial and against the rule of traditional cricket, the shot went on to challenge conventional bowling strategies. The right-handed batter retired as one of the best modern-day cricketers for The Three Lions.

8. Suresh Raina — Inside-Out Shot

Suresh Raina’s signature inside-out shot, particularly against spinners, was a regular feature in the middle overs. The left-hander would dance down the track and loft the ball over extra cover, clearing the infield with ease. While the Southpaw played all formats for the country, with at least a century in each of them, he found most of his success in T20 cricket. With his attacking stroke play, he became the first batter to cross the 5000-run mark in the Indian Premier League. He is also popular as Mr. IPL for his exceptional feats in the marquee tournament.

7. Tillakaratne Dilshan — Dil-Scoop

Former Sri Lankan opener Tillakaratne Dilshan introduced the “Dil-Scoop”, a premeditated shot played over the wicketkeeper’s head. It became a game-changer in T20 cricket, particularly during power plays. It is named after him, which highlighted innovation in limited-overs batting. He is among the most decorated batters for Sri Lanka, especially in white-ball formats.

6. MS Dhoni — Helicopter Shot

MS Dhoni stunned the cricketing world with his iconic helicopter shot. He used his powerful wrists and bottom-hand strength, and turned yorkers into sixes with a unique flourish. The shot became synonymous with his role as a finisher and inspired a generation of young cricketers. With a calm yet attacking approach, Dhoni made a name for himself as the best finisher in limited overs’ cricket.

5. Rohit Sharma — Pull Shot

Rohit Sharma’s pull shot is widely regarded as one of the finest in modern cricket. The shot is known for its elegance and timing where he effortlessly dispatches short deliveries over square leg and mid-wicket. It is a go-to weapon, especially effective against pace attacks. Currently focusing only on the ODIs in international cricket, Rohit uses his trademark shot to his benefit, especially during the powerplay. 

4. Brian Lara – Late Cut

Brian Lara’s late cut was a masterpiece in timing. He played with soft hands and precise placement, and often guided the ball past slips with accuracy. It showcased his calmness and his ability to outthink bowlers with his wristwork. One of West Indies’ all-time greats, the Caribbean side has failed to find a batter of his stature to regain the dominance they once held across all formats of the game.

3. Sachin Tendulkar – Straight Drive

Sachin Tendulkar’s straight drive is widely regarded as the most beautiful shot in cricket, which embodies grace and control. He played with a high elbow and the full face of the bat. This shot became a symbol of the God of Cricket’s technical mastery.

2. AB de Villiers – 360° Scoop

AB de Villiers, fondly called “Mr. 360”, redefined batting with his full-range shot-making. His signature scoop over the wicketkeeper or fine leg was a marvel of innovation. It stunned bowlers and fans alike, making him one of the most versatile batters ever. He is the only batter across the world to average a minimum 50.00 in ODIs, T20Is and Tests as well. He hung up his boots from international cricket in 2019, and currently enjoys commentating and also has a YouTube channel where he shares his insights and analysis from matches around the world.

1. Virat Kohli – Cover Drive

Virat Kohli’s cover drive is the gold standard for modern-day elegance. With perfect footwork, and high elbow, he guides the ball through covers like few others can. The shot not only brings runs but also displays class. Anything that is slightly full or pitched up around or outside the off stump, Kohli drives the ball to find gap and the ball reaches the fence in a flash, producing one of the most beautiful shot from the textbook.