New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips insists his eye-catching switch-hitting display in a recent Super Smash match was no mere stunt, but a tactical skill he has honed over years to counter left-arm spin.
In last week’s game against Central Districts, the Otago right-hander surprised everyone by changing stance mid-delivery against off-spinner Dean Foxcroft, dispatching the ball for a stylish four. The spectacle continued in the final over when Phillips assumed a left-handed stance even before left-arm spinner Jayden Lennox began his run-up, smashing a six with ease.
Phillips, who finished unbeaten on 90 off 48 balls, said, “I enjoy my left-handed batting practice. I do it for multiple reasons - keeping both hands and sides of the brain active, and also as a tactical tool to attack left-arm spin.”
While switch-hitting has been popularized by England’s Kevin Pietersen and used strategically by Australian stars David Warner and Glenn Maxwell, Phillips emphasized that it’s been part of his game since childhood. “I’ve always been able to bat left-handed. I even thought about switching full-time at 10, but stuck with right-hand batting,” he said.
Switch-hitting is particularly effective against left-arm orthodox spinners, who are often used to move the ball away from right-handed batters in T20 cricket. Phillips revealed he has also practiced facing pacers in a left-handed stance to refine the skill.
“It’s been a few years since this really had a chance to shine. For years of training to pay off on the field was incredibly satisfying,” he added.
With New Zealand’s white-ball tour of India on the horizon, Phillips’ innovative approach could give his team a potent tactical edge.
