Forward defence (cricket)

Mahela Jayawardene plays a forward defence

The forward defence is one of the most commonly used shots in cricket.

Played to a good length ball, the batsman attempts to defend his wicket by smothering the ball before it has had much opportunity to spin or move off the seam. With a well-bent front knee, the shot can also help combat variable bounce.

Whilst the shot is a defensive one, there can be opportunities to score from it, if the shot is particularly well timed, or if the batsmen run a quick single.