What Is a Supla Shot in Cricket, and Who Invented It?
Suryakumar Yadav invented the Supla Shot in cricket.
Cricket has witnessed a constant evolution of batting techniques, with players inventing new ways to score runs. The “Supla Shot” is the latest addition to this ever-growing arsenal, brought to us by the Indian batter, Suryakumar Yadav, often referred to as “Mr. 360” for his wide range of strokes.
Unlike the Dilscoop or the switch-hit, the Supla Shot wasn’t a deliberate invention by Suryakumar Yadav. It came from his early cricketing experiences playing tennis ball cricket, a popular format in the streets of Mumbai.
Suryakumar Yadav himself explains, “The name comes from local tennis ball cricket. People started connecting with the shot and gave it a name.”
How is Supla Shot Played?
While seemingly simple, the Supla Shot requires a specific technique and timing. It involves a paddle-like movement, using the wrists to flick the ball towards fine leg, even against fast bowlers.
The Mumbai batter mastered his shot while playing with rubber balls on hard cement tracks. He describes it as a shot born out of necessity, a way to score runs while avoiding getting hit by the hard-bowled balls.
Watch Suryakumar Yadav Playing Supla Shot:
The Supla Shot is just one weapon in Suryakumar Yadav’s vast repertoire. He’s also known for his incredible “offside scoop” shot, famously executed against Jofra Archer after a nasty blow to the head, and other innovative techniques like the “uppercut” and “jump” shot.
