The shape of the paddles allows them to hit the ball backwards....which is why there are fielders positioned there. Watched a lot of cricket while living abroad. The 1 day test matches are very good. Lots of action! On the other hand, the 5 day test matches are so boring...batters trying outlast the bowlers (pitchers). And, after 5 days, they can still end in a tie!
The thing that got my attention was finding out if the batter is hit by the ball and is considered to be blocking the wicket, he's out. Its a wicked game sometimes!