Trigger Movement

A small pre-delivery movement (back-and-across, forward press, or shuffle) that loads the batter into position as the ball is released (Smith's shuffle, Williamson's back-and-across).

The English 'stance', 'grip' and 'trigger' terms were codified in 19th-century English coaching manuals as the fundamentals of batsmanship.

Foundation — the first thing every player learns; the basis of every advanced variation.

Initiates a stretch-shorten cycle in the legs — first stride is faster from a moving start than a static one.

Triggering too early (before bowler's release) leaves the batter committed and unable to abort; trigger should peak at release. Use a coach calling 'now' at release to time the trigger; video review from side-on.