A "straight drive" is a type of shot in the game of cricket. It is played by hitting the ball with the bat in a straight line back towards the bowler, typically using a vertical bat. This shot is often executed when the ball is pitched in the right area, allowing the batsman to drive it powerfully along the ground. The straight drive is considered one of the most elegant and effective shots in cricket. It requires good timing and technique, as the batsman aims to hit the ball with precision to maximize distance and minimize the chance of being caught.