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Lesson 5 - Forward Defensive Shot

Core Skills & Tactics

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Year 5

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Cricket

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Big Question

How can we protect our wicket while staying ready to score runs?

Learning Objectives

To understand when and why to use a forward defensive shot in cricket
To develop the technique for playing a forward defensive shot with correct form
To apply defensive batting skills in game situations while maintaining awareness of scoring opportunities

Key Outcomes

Students will be able to explain when to use defensive shots versus attacking shots
Students will demonstrate correct forward defensive shot technique in isolation
Students will attempt forward defensive shots during game play when appropriate

Equipment & Resources Required

Cricket Equipment

1 per 2 students (15)

Check bat size is appropriate for each student's height

Alternative: Shorter cricket bats, rounders bats for beginners

Tennis Balls

20-25 balls

Ensure balls are in good condition for consistent bounce

Alternative: Soft cricket balls, foam balls for beginners

Rackets

6 sets of stumps

Position at appropriate height for Year 5 students

Alternative: Cones arranged in wicket formation, skittles

Cones

20 cones

Use for marking boundaries and practice areas

Alternative: Markers, bean bags

Sun Markers

1 set

For recording scores and drawing technique diagrams

Alternative: Flip chart paper, demonstration cards

Key Vocabulary

Forward defensive shot

A cricket batting technique used to defend the wicket by playing the ball safely to the ground

Wicket

The three wooden stumps and two bails that the batsman must protect from the ball

Defensive play

Batting with the primary goal of protecting the wicket rather than scoring runs

Front foot

The foot closest to the bowler when playing a shot, used to get close to the ball

Backswing

The backward movement of the bat before playing a shot

Shot selection

The decision-making process of choosing which type of shot to play

Skill Progression Pathway

Understanding where pupils are coming from and where they're going

Prior Learning

Basic batting grip and stance
Understanding of cricket scoring and wicket protection
Experience with attacking batting shots
Knowledge of bowling and fielding positions

Current Skills

Forward defensive shot technique
Decision-making between attack and defence
Maintaining concentration during defensive play
Reading the type of ball being bowled

Next Steps

Back foot defensive shots
Advanced shot selection based on field placements
Building defensive innings with occasional attacking shots
Understanding different bowling variations

Milestone Indicators

Consistent contact with defensive shots in practice

Appropriate shot selection during games

Maintaining wicket for extended periods

Smooth transition between attacking and defensive play

Key Teaching Points

Forward defensive shot is about protection, not power - emphasise control over distance
Grip should be relaxed but secure - tension in hands affects bat control
Eyes must track the ball from bowler's hand to bat contact point
Forward foot movement brings body weight toward the ball for better control
Bat angle pointing downward keeps ball on ground and away from fielders
Decision-making between attack and defence is crucial cricket skill
Defensive shots can score points and are valuable in cricket strategy

Common Misconceptions

Defensive shots are boring or negative - explain they're skilful and strategic
You must hit every ball hard to be good at cricket - show value of controlled play
Defensive shots never score runs - demonstrate how defence can create opportunities
Only attacking players are valuable in cricket - highlight importance of wicket protection
Forward defensive is just blocking - explain the active technique required

SEN Adaptations

ADHD

Break activities into shorter segments, provide frequent movement opportunities, use clear, simple instructions

dyspraxia

Allow extra practice time, use larger equipment where possible, provide physical guidance for technique development

autism spectrum

Provide clear, predictable routine structure, offer quiet zones for breaks, use visual schedules for activity transitions

visual impairment

Use brightly coloured balls, provide verbal descriptions of all demonstrations, ensure close positioning for technique instruction

hearing impairment

Use clear visual demonstrations, hand signals for game instructions, written instructions on whiteboard

physical disability

Adapt batting stance for seated position, use lighter bats or shorter handles, modify game rules for wheelchair access

Cross-Curricular Links

Maths

Scoring calculations, comparing points totals, measuring distances between wickets and boundaries

Science

Forces and motion in ball flight, friction between ball and ground, angles of bat for ball control

Geography

Understanding directions and field positioning, mapping cricket field layouts and player positions

PSHE

Teamwork and cooperation, managing disappointment when getting out, supporting teammates' learning

Teacher Guidance

Positioning

Move constantly between groups during practice activities, position at corner of area during game play for maximum visibility

Observation Focus

Watch for correct technique development, safe equipment handling, and positive interaction between students

Intervention Points

Step in if technique is unsafe, if students are not cooperating effectively, or if equipment is being misused

Demonstration Notes

Always demonstrate from side angle for clear technique viewing, use slow motion for complex movements, repeat demonstrations frequently

Verbal Cues

•'Eyes on the ball!'
•'Forward step first!'
•'Bat pointing down!'
•'Think before you swing!'

Safety Considerations

Space & Surface Requirements

Space Requirements

Minimum 30m x 40m outdoor area or large sports hall with high ceiling for cricket activities

Surface Check

Flat, even surface free from holes, obstacles, or wet areas that could cause slipping

Equipment Safety

Safety Checks

•Check cricket bats for cracks or splinters before use
•Ensure tennis balls are in good condition and bounce consistently
•Verify wickets are stable and set up safely
•Inspect cones for sharp edges or damage

Risk Management

Key Risks

•Ball strikes to head or body
•Collisions between students during running
•Bat contact between students in close proximity
•Trips and falls during game activities

Risk Mitigation

•Maintain minimum 10 metre spacing between practice groups
•Use tennis balls instead of hard cricket balls
•Establish clear boundaries and safety zones
•Teach safe fielding positions away from bat swing area

Supervision & Emergency Procedures

Supervision Points

•Position for clear sightlines to all activity areas
•Move frequently between groups to monitor safety
•Watch for students crowding near batters
•Monitor energy levels and behaviour for safety concerns

Emergency Procedures

Stop all activity immediately with whistle, assess injury, provide appropriate first aid, inform school office of any significant incidents