Sir, Of course Kevin Pietersen should not be barred from switching guards (leading article, June 17; reports, June 18). Bowlers should view it as a challenge. So, rather than outlawing the shot, why not allow a right-handed bowler to bowl surprise left-handed deliveries (and vice versa), without informing the batsman? Needless to say, this would be about as rare as a batsman switching hands, as barely anyone would be able to pull it off. Apart from Pietersen, I’d guess.

Lawrence Freeborn
Marden, Kent

Sir, Pietersen’s left-handed slog may be within the laws but it is not cricket. Cricket, as youngsters used to be coached, was all about fine and elegant shot-making: the sublime cover drive, the difficult on-drive, the ferocious hook and the feather-like late cut. A hoick over midwicket was strongly discouraged, however many runs it brought. Such slogging may be enjoyed by present-day crowds, and will be adopted by youngsters at the cost of learning correct shot-making, but it is not cricket. It should bear a separate name. Perhaps tip-and-run is appropriate.

Patrick Phillips, QC
Long Melford, Suffolk

Sir, It is a pity that the reverse sweep was not banned before Mike Gatting tried it in the 1987 World Cup Final against Australia. England were sailing along until he played it against Allan Border, I believe, and we subsequently lost.

Peter Arksey
Addlestone, Surrey

Sir, For goodness’ sake, just let us enjoy watching Pietersen blaze. Cricket lovers are lucky if one talent like this comes along in a lifetime. Always something new out of Africa, said Pliny, and in this case he really got it right.

Tony Eaton
Stanmore, Middx

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