Playing the Moving Ball

The technique of surviving conditions where the ball swings and seams off the pitch — the highest skill in Test batting (Cook, Pujara, Mithali Raj on overseas tours).

The cricket ball's cork-and-leather construction dates to the 1770s (Duke's of Kent); pink and white balls were introduced later for day-night and limited-overs cricket.

Play under the eyes, not in front of the body; soft hands at impact; wait for the ball to come to the bat.

Leave anything wide of off-stump; defend with soft hands; attack only the half-volley.

Hard hands push at the ball — drill with a side-arm at 130+ km/h on a green tinge.