Cricket Writer — Rules & Technique
Sourav Das
Sourav Das is a cricket writer who covers the laws of the game and the craft of playing it — how a delivery is bowled, how a shot is played, and what each rule, signal and dismissal actually means in the middle. He has written cricket explainers and how-to guides for more than a decade.
Articles by Sourav Das (123)
Cricket Ball Rules: Size, Control, New Balls and Replacement
MCC Law 4 covers the ball’s weight and size, approval, umpire control, new-ball requests, lost or unfit balls and ball specifications. The playing condition can set the ball type and when a replacement is allowed.
Cricket Bat Rules: Size, Repairs and Legal Contact
MCC Law 5 covers the cricket bat’s handle, blade, protection and repair, damage to the ball caused by the bat and the bat-size limits. A competition can also apply equipment regulations, so a legal bat must satisfy both the Laws and the match conditions.
Cricket Fielder Absence Rules: Time Off the Field and Return
MCC Law 24 covers a fielder who is absent or leaves the field and the use of substitute fielders. The reason for the absence, time away, return and competition playing conditions can affect what the player may do after coming back.
Cricket Interval Length Rules: Lunch, Tea and Drinks Breaks
MCC Law 11 sets the framework for intervals, including the interval between innings, lunch, tea and drinks. The agreed match schedule and playing conditions determine the exact times, while the Law limits how intervals are changed or taken late in a session.
Cricket Law 1: Players, Nominations and Captains
MCC Law 1 sets the basic rules for the players in a cricket match: the normal team size, player nominations, replacements, captains and the responsibilities of captains. A competition can add playing conditions, so the match document still matters.
Cricket Pitch Rules: Length, Width and Fitness for Play
MCC Law 6 defines the pitch as 22 yards or 20.12 metres long and 10 feet or 3.05 metres wide, subject to the Law’s boundaries and junior or non-turf provisions. The umpires judge whether the pitch is fit and control its use during the match.
Cricket Result Rules: Wins, Ties, Draws and No Results
MCC Law 16 explains how a match result is recorded, including a win, tie, draw, no result and abandoned match. The format and competition playing conditions can add a target, a minimum-overs rule or a tiebreak procedure.
Cricket Scorer Rules: What Scorers Record and Check
MCC Law 3 requires scorers to record runs, wickets and, where appropriate, overs. Scorers check their records against each other, acknowledge umpire signals and agree the score with the umpires at intervals and at the end of the match.
Cricket Substitute Player Rules: What a Substitute Can Do
Cricket substitute player rules come from the fielders-absence and substitutes law plus the competition playing conditions. A substitute fielder can normally field, but the substitute does not automatically gain the right to bat, bowl or captain the side.
Cricket Wicket Rules: Stumps, Bails and Positioning
MCC Law 8 defines the wicket as three stumps with two bails and sets its dimensions, positioning and pitching requirements. The wicket is checked with the creases and playing area before the match and remains central to several dismissal laws.
Cricket Bowled Rules: When Is the Wicket Put Down?
MCC Law 32 makes a batter out Bowled when a delivery breaks the striker's wicket, even if it first touches the bat or body, provided the delivery is not a No ball and the relevant exceptions do not apply.
Cricket Caught Rules: When Does a Catch Dismiss a Batter?
Under MCC Law 33, a catch is completed when a fielder controls the ball and it has not touched the ground, subject to the Law's conditions about boundary contact and a fielder's position.
Cricket Covering the Pitch Rules: What Covers Protect
MCC Law 10 governs covering the pitch and explains how the pitch and other parts of the playing area may be protected before and during play under the competition arrangements.
Cricket Hit the Ball Twice Rules: When Is the Batter Out?
Under MCC Law 34, a batter is out Hit the Ball Twice if, while the ball is in play, the striker wilfully strikes it a second time with the bat or with the body before a fielder touches it, except when the second action is solely to protect the wicket.
Cricket Over Rules: Six Legal Balls and the Bowler Change
MCC Law 17 defines an over as six valid balls delivered from one end, with wides and no-balls not counting as one of those six and the bowling end changing after the over.
Cricket Player Conduct Rules: Law 42 Explained
MCC Law 42 sets the on-field conduct process for unacceptable behaviour, with umpires able to apply escalating sanctions for serious or repeated misconduct.
Cricket Practice on the Field Rules: What Players Can Do
MCC Law 26 limits practice on the field during a match, including when players may practise bowling or batting and how deliberate practice can lead to penalty runs or other action.
Cricket Scoring Runs Rules: How the Laws Count Runs
MCC Law 18 credits runs when batters cross, complete a boundary or receive an applicable penalty, while the scoring record separates batter runs from extras and penalty runs.
Cricket Unfair Play Rules: Law 41 Explained
MCC Law 41 covers unfair play, including actions that change the condition of the ball, waste time, distract a batter, deliver dangerous short-pitched bowling or otherwise breach the Laws and Spirit of Cricket.
Cricket Wicket Down Rules: What Counts as Breaking the Wicket?
MCC Law 29 explains when a wicket is down: a bail is completely removed from the top of the stumps, or a stump is struck or pulled from the ground in the situations allowed by the Law.
Cricket Ball Change Rules: lost, damaged and comparable-wear balls
When a cricket ball is lost or becomes unfit through normal use, the umpires replace it with a ball of comparable wear. The replacement process is different from a captain demanding a new ball under Law 4.
Cricket Batter Out of Ground Rules: when the wicket can be broken
A batter is out of their ground when no part of the bat or person is grounded behind the relevant popping crease. MCC Law 30 connects that definition to run outs, stumpings and other wicket-breaking situations.
Cricket Boundary Rules: ropes, fours, sixes and fielding contact
MCC Law 19 defines the boundary before the toss and explains how a boundary is scored, including the difference between a ball grounded beyond the boundary and a fielder’s contact with the boundary while touching the ball.
Cricket Concussion Substitute Rules: replacement versus ordinary substitute
An ordinary substitute fielder covers an absent player but is normally limited to fielding, while an approved concussion replacement can become a nominated player under the relevant ICC playing conditions. They are different legal statuses.
Cricket Crease Rules: popping, bowling and return creases explained
The cricket pitch uses marked creases to define the batter’s ground and the bowler’s legal delivery area. The popping crease, bowling crease and return creases have different jobs under MCC Laws 6 and 7.
Cricket Drinks Interval Rules: timing and the five-minute limit
Under MCC Law 11.8, a drinks interval should be kept as short as possible and cannot exceed five minutes. The umpires set the agreed timing before play, and competition conditions can add format-specific instructions.
Cricket Innings Start Rules: toss, call of play and the first ball
An innings begins when the umpire calls Play, after the toss and the required preparation. MCC Laws distinguish the toss, the call of play, the batter’s innings and the start of each over.
Cricket Interval Rules: innings, lunch, tea and drinks breaks
MCC Law 11 defines scheduled cricket intervals. The general interval between innings is 10 minutes, drinks intervals should be as short as possible and no longer than five minutes, while match playing conditions set other breaks and adjustments.
Cricket LBW Rules: how Law 36 decides leg before wicket
A batter can be out LBW only when every condition in MCC Law 36 is met: the delivery is not a no-ball, the ball first intercepts the person rather than the bat, the impact and pitching conditions are satisfied, and the ball would have hit the wicket.
Cricket New Ball Rules: when captains can take a new ball
Under MCC Law 4, either captain may demand a new ball at the start of an innings, and in a match lasting more than one day the fielding captain may demand one after at least 80 overs with the old ball, unless the match agreement says otherwise.
Cricket Appeal Rules: why the umpire needs an appeal
Most dismissals require an appeal before the umpire can give the batter out, with limited exceptions in the Laws. An appeal must be clear and timely.
Cricket Lost-Ball Rules: replacement and scoring
When a ball is lost or cannot be recovered, the umpires control replacement and scoring under the applicable Laws and playing conditions. A private replacement ball is not automatically legal.
Cricket Bat Hits Stumps Rules: when is it Hit Wicket?
A batter can be out Hit Wicket when their bat or person puts down the wicket in the circumstances listed by MCC Law 35. Ball status and the action being attempted matter.
Cricket Retired-Hurt Rules: when a batter can return
A batter who retires because of illness or injury may return under the applicable playing conditions, while a voluntary retirement can require the opposing captain’s consent. The scorecard must show the status accurately.
Cricket Bowler Foot-Fault Rules: front and back foot
A bowler commits a foot-fault no-ball when the relevant foot position breaches the crease rules. The umpire applies the current Law and playing conditions.
Cricket Catch Completion Rules: control and ground contact
A catch is complete only when the fielder has control of the ball and the ball has not touched the ground in the process. Boundary contact and movement can change the outcome.
Cricket Delivery Stride Rules: how the action is judged
The delivery stride is the part of the bowling action used to apply several no-ball and foot-position rules. It is a defined movement and timing concept, not simply the moment the ball leaves the hand.
Cricket Fielder Equipment Rules: helmets, gloves and restrictions
Fielders can use protective equipment permitted by the Laws and competition rules, but wicketkeeper gloves and external leg guards have specific conditions. Protection does not remove the need for safe positioning.
Cricket Runner Rules: who may run and what changes
A runner is permitted only under the current Laws and playing conditions, and the batter with a runner remains subject to special dismissal and scoring rules. Many professional formats restrict runners.
Cricket Wicketkeeper Stumping Rules: what the keeper must do
A stumping can occur when the striker is out of the ground, has not attempted a run and the wicketkeeper fairly puts down the wicket. Ball status and keeper position matter.
Cricket Ball Hits Batter Rules: what happens next?
When a delivered ball hits a batter, the result depends on whether the ball is dead, whether runs are attempted, whether it is a leg bye, and whether a dismissal or penalty applies. There is no single automatic outcome for every body contact.
Cricket Non-Striker Run-Out Rules: what Law 38 says
A non-striker can be run out when out of their ground and the wicket is fairly put down while the ball is in play, subject to the current wording and the withdrawal provisions in MCC Law 38. It is a run-out dismissal, not a separate informal rule.
Cricket Boundary Catch Rules: when a catch counts
A boundary catch depends on whether the fielder completes control of the ball while grounded inside the boundary and whether the ball has touched the ground. Boundary contact, airborne control and the field boundary definition all matter.
Cricket Free-Hit Rules: what the batter may and may not do
A free hit follows the no-ball conditions set by the relevant playing regulations, but it does not make every dismissal impossible. The current competition rules control which no-ball creates a free hit and how the next delivery is treated.
Cricket Hit-Wicket Rules: when the batter is dismissed
A batter is out Hit Wicket when the wicket is put down in the circumstances listed in MCC Law 35, including actions connected with receiving or playing the ball. The exact timing and exceptions matter.
Cricket Leg-Bye Rules: when runs count
Leg-bye runs can be scored when the ball hits the batter or clothing rather than the bat, but MCC Law 23 applies conditions about playing a shot, avoiding the ball and attempting a run. The umpire's signal and the competition rules complete the answer.
Cricket Obstructing the Field Rules: deliberate obstruction explained
A batter can be out Obstructing the Field when their deliberate words or actions obstruct or distract the fielding side, subject to the detailed exceptions in MCC Law 37. Intent and the ball-in-play context matter.
Cricket Penalty Runs Rules: when five runs are added
Penalty runs are added under specific Laws and playing conditions, not whenever an umpire sees unfair play. The scorer must record the correct reason and distinguish penalty runs from bat runs, wides and no-balls.
Cricket Short-Run Rules: what happens when a batter turns early
A short run occurs when a batter fails to make good the ground while turning for another run. The umpire can disallow the short run, and deliberate short running can trigger the additional penalty described in the Laws.
Cricket Timed-Out Rules: the incoming batter deadline
Under MCC Law 40, the incoming batter must be ready within the stated time after a wicket or retirement unless time has been called. The competition's playing conditions can set the exact period, so readers should not copy one format's number into another.
Cricket Ball Swing Explained: seam, shine and release
Swing is movement through the air caused by the ball's condition, seam presentation, release, speed and surrounding conditions. One grip cannot guarantee it.
Cricket Batting Injury Prevention: a practical checklist
Batting injury prevention starts with a suitable helmet and protective equipment, a safe practice setup, sensible workload, and coaching that matches the player, ball and pace.
Cricket Bowling Run-Up: rhythm, alignment and safe practice
A useful bowling run-up is repeatable, balanced and aligned with the target. Pace should build without forcing an unstable landing or follow-through.
Cricket Captain Toss Rules: who calls, chooses and records
Before a match, the captains meet for the toss and the winner chooses whether to bat or field, subject to the competition's playing conditions and local procedure.
Cricket Cover Drive Basics: balance, head position and timing
A sound cover drive starts with balance and head position, then uses a controlled stride and a full face of the bat to send the ball through the off-side gap.
Cricket Dead Ball Rules: when play stops and runs count
The ball becomes dead when the Laws or umpire determine that it is no longer in play. Whether runs count depends on the incident and playing conditions.
Cricket Fielding Throwing Technique: accuracy before power
Good cricket throwing technique uses a balanced pickup, a clear target, an efficient arm path and a controlled follow-through. Accuracy comes before maximum speed.
Cricket Over Rate Explained: overs, time and penalties
An over rate measures how quickly a fielding side completes its overs. Targets, allowances and penalties depend on format and playing conditions.
Cricket Seam Position: how bowlers control the release
A bowler uses seam position to present the ball consistently, while small changes in wrist, finger position and target can create seam or swing variations.
Cricket No-Ball Types: what changes by format
A no-ball can result from different breaches, including foot placement or an illegal delivery, and the penalty and free-hit treatment depend on the current playing conditions. Always separate MCC Law 21 from competition-specific additions.
Cricket Practice Net Safety: a checklist for players and coaches
Safe practice nets need controlled access, suitable balls, clear communication and equipment that fits the player. A net is not automatically safe because it is enclosed; impact, trip and rebound risks still need management.
Cricket Scorebook Symbols: common notation explained
Scorebook symbols turn each delivery into a compact record of runs, extras, wickets and overs. The exact shorthand can vary, so start with the scorer’s legend and keep the written card aligned with the electronic scoreboard.
Cricket Ball Condition Guide: shine, wear and legal use
Ball condition affects movement and must be managed within the Laws and competition rules. Players may not assume that every method of polishing, scuffing or replacing a ball is legal.
How to Mark a Cricket Scorecard: a beginner’s method
A scorecard records balls, runs, wickets, extras, overs and dismissals in a compact notation. Start with the scorebook’s legend, record every legal delivery in order and reconcile the total at the end of each over.
What Is an Appeal in Cricket? The Umpire’s Decision
An appeal is the fielding side asking an umpire to decide whether a batter is out. Under Law 31, an umpire normally cannot give a batter out without an appeal, except where the Law provides otherwise.
Cricket Ball Colours: Red, White and Pink Explained
Red, white and pink balls are used in different match conditions. The choice affects visibility and durability, while the competition’s playing conditions decide which ball is supplied.
Cricket Declaration Rules: When Can a Captain Close an Innings?
In a match governed by MCC Law 15, a captain may declare the team innings closed when the ball is dead. Declarations belong to the longer formats and must be read with the competition rules.
Drinks Break Rules in Cricket: When Can Players Take One?
Drinks intervals are controlled by the match’s playing conditions, not an automatic right to stop whenever players want. International regulations specify when scheduled drinks may occur and how time is managed.
Overthrow Rules in Cricket: How Extra Runs Are Counted
An overthrow is a run or boundary completed after a fielder’s throw passes the intended target. The scorers apply the Laws for completed runs, boundary allowances and the ball’s status.
Run-Out Rules in Cricket: When Is the Batter Out?
A run out occurs when a batter is out of their ground and the wicket at that end is fairly put down while the ball is in play, subject to the relevant Law and exceptions.
How to Calculate Run Rate in Cricket
Run rate is runs scored divided by the overs or balls used. In a six-ball over, 48 runs from 8 overs is a run rate of 6.00.
Substitute Fielder Rules in Cricket
A substitute fielder can replace a nominated player on the field when the umpire accepts the reason, but the substitute does not become that player in the match’s nominated XI. Competition rules add important limits.
Cricket Tie vs Draw: What Is the Difference?
A tie means both sides finish with the same total and the result is equal. A draw means the match reaches its end without a winning result under the format’s rules.
Net Run Rate in Cricket: Formula and Example
Net run rate is a limited-overs table measure: a team’s average runs per over scored minus its average runs per over conceded, subject to the competition regulations.
What Is a Bouncer in Cricket? Rules and Safe Use
A bouncer is a short-pitched delivery that rises sharply after pitching. Its legal limit depends on the competition’s playing conditions, so bowlers must check the current Test, ODI, T20 or domestic rule set.
Cricket Ball Weight and Size: What the Laws Require
A new men’s cricket ball must weigh 155.9–163 grams and measure 22.4–22.9 centimetres in circumference under MCC Law 4. Women’s and junior specifications can differ under the relevant playing conditions.
Cricket Batting Stance: A Safe Starting Position
A useful batting stance gives the player balance, a repeatable head position and enough freedom to move the bat. There is no single universal stance; foot placement and trigger movement must suit the batter and coaching context.
How Long Is a Cricket Pitch? The Official 22-Yard Measurement
A standard cricket pitch is 22 yards (20.12 metres) long and 10 feet (3.05 metres) wide under MCC Law 6. The pitch is not the same thing as the whole field or the boundary.
Cricket Powerplay Rules: How Fielding Restrictions Work
Powerplay rules restrict where fielders may stand during defined overs, but the exact circle, over count and exceptions depend on the format’s current playing conditions. ODI and T20 rules must be explained separately.
How Is Cricket Scored? Runs, Wickets, Overs and Extras
Cricket scoring records runs, wickets and legal balls, then adds extras such as wides, no-balls, byes and leg byes to the team total. The Laws separate the batter’s runs from extras.
What Is a Leg Bye in Cricket? Scoring the Extra
A leg bye is an extra scored when the ball makes contact with the batter or equipment other than the bat and the batters complete runs, subject to Law 23. It is recorded against the team, not the batter’s personal runs.
Maiden Over Meaning in Cricket: What Counts?
A maiden over is a completed over in which the batting side scores no runs credited to the bowler. Wides and no-balls prevent a six-ball over from being a legal maiden in the normal scorecard sense.
Wide Ball Rules in Cricket: Runs, Dismissals and the Call
A wide is called when the ball passes outside the striker’s reach for a normal stroke, subject to the umpire’s judgement and competition conditions. It adds at least one extra and does not count as one of the over’s six legal balls.
What Is a Yorker in Cricket? Length, Aim and Limits
A yorker is a delivery aimed at the batter’s toes or the base of the stumps, usually pitching very full. It is a bowling description, not a separate dismissal or a guarantee that the ball will hit the wicket.
Cricket Bat Size Guide: Junior Sizes, Adult Length and Law Limits
Use a cricket bat size chart by player height, then check pickup and the Laws of Cricket. Learn the difference between junior sizing, adult short-handle bats and legal dimensions.
Cricket Bat Weight Guide: How Heavy Should Your Bat Be?
Learn cricket bat weight ranges, pounds-to-grams conversion, pickup and how to choose a bat that matches your strength, height and batting style.
Types of Bowling in Cricket: Pace, Swing, Seam and Spin
A clear guide to the main types of bowling in cricket, including pace, swing, seam, off-spin, leg-spin and variations such as cutters and slower balls.
Cricket Fielding Positions Explained: A Simple Field Setup Guide
Learn every main cricket fielding position, where it sits relative to the batter and when captains use slips, point, cover, midwicket and the boundary riders.
How Many Wickets Are There in Cricket? Team, Innings and Pitch Explained
Cricket has two physical wickets, 10 dismissals to end a normal innings and 11 players in a side. Here is how each meaning fits together.
Round the Wicket vs Over the Wicket: What Is the Difference?
Round the wicket and over the wicket describe the bowler's approach to the stumps. Learn the MCC definitions, angles and tactical reasons for switching.
Box Cricket Rules: Common Formats, Teams and Scoring
Box cricket has no single worldwide rulebook. Use this practical guide to common indoor and enclosed-court formats, local variations, scoring and safety.
Cricket Umpire Signals: A Plain-English Guide to Every Call
Learn the cricket umpire signals for out, four, six, no-ball, wide, dead ball, review, drinks and the new ball, with text alternatives for every gesture.
What Is Umpire's Call in Cricket? DRS and LBW Explained
Umpire's Call keeps the on-field LBW decision when ball-tracking shows a marginal result. Learn what it means, when it applies and why the review is retained.
Cricket Umpire Rules: Duties, Signals, Reviews and Match Control
What cricket umpires must do before, during and after a match: appeals, signals, no-balls, reviews, safety, scoring and MCC Law responsibilities.
Bowling Spell Meaning in Cricket: Overs, Rest and Scorecards
A bowling spell is the continuous block of overs a bowler delivers before leaving the attack. Learn how spells appear in strategy and scorecard analysis.
How to Increase Bowling Speed in Cricket Safely
A practical fast-bowling plan: improve run-up rhythm, front-leg bracing, hip-shoulder separation and strength while managing workload and injury risk.
Chucking Meaning in Cricket: Illegal Bowling Actions Explained
Chucking means throwing rather than legally bowling. Learn the MCC arm rule, the ICC 15-degree assessment threshold and the fair reporting process.
Cricket Field Dimensions: Pitch, Crease and Boundary Measurements
A cricket pitch is 22 yards long and 10 feet wide, but the boundary is not one fixed circle. See the official dimensions and what changes by venue and format.
Fielding Restrictions in Cricket: ODI and T20 Powerplays Explained
Current men's ODI and T20I powerplays limit how many fielders can stand outside the 30-yard circle. See the phases, penalties and shortened-innings caveats.
Cricket Fielding Skills: Catching, Throwing and Ground Work
Build cricket fielding skills with safe progressions for catching, throwing, ground fielding, agility and communication.
What Does the Fourth Umpire Do in Cricket?
The fourth umpire supports the on-field and TV officials with pitch access, equipment, balls, weather and match administration.
No-Ball Rules in Cricket: Types, Penalty and Free Hits
Learn what makes a no-ball, how the one-run penalty works, which dismissals remain possible and when a free hit applies.
Types of Spin Bowling in Cricket: Off Spin, Leg Spin and Variations
Learn the four main spin-bowling styles and the variations that change the ball's turn, flight, dip and pace.
What Is MCC in Cricket? The Club, Laws and Its Role
MCC means Marylebone Cricket Club. Learn how it differs from the ICC and why it remains the guardian of cricket's Laws.
What Is Cow Corner in Cricket? Field Position and Meaning
Cow corner is the informal cricket field area between deep midwicket and long-on. Learn the meaning, location and shots played there.
How to Become a Cricket Umpire: Courses, Experience and Pathways
Learn how to become a cricket umpire, from local matches and Laws training to accreditation, observations and higher-level appointments.
Innovative Shots in Cricket: Scoop, Switch Hit and More
Learn the main innovative cricket shots, how each one works, which field gap it targets, and the differences between scoops, sweeps and switch hits.
Can a Wicketkeeper Bowl in Cricket? The Rule Explained
Yes, a wicketkeeper can bowl in cricket. See how teams switch keepers, when substitutes cannot bowl, and what happens to the gloves and pads.
How Many Creases Are There in Cricket? All Lines Explained
A cricket pitch has four creases at each end: one bowling, one popping and two return creases. See all eight positions, dimensions and uses.
How to Watch IPL in the USA: Willow TV Guide
Watch the IPL legally in the USA through Willow by Cricbuzz. Compare the direct plan and TV providers, prices, devices, match times and replays.
LBW Full Form in Cricket: Leg Before Wicket Explained
LBW stands for leg before wicket. Learn the five conditions in MCC Law 36, when a batter is not out, and how DRS and umpire's call work.
Meaning of Sledging in Cricket: Banter, Abuse and Rules
Sledging means using words or gestures to unsettle a cricket opponent. Learn what may be tolerated, what breaks Law 42 and how serious abuse is punished.
Slogger Meaning in Cricket: More Than a Big Hitter
A slogger hits hard to score quickly, often with limited control. Learn how sloggers differ from power hitters, finishers and technically attacking batters.
What Is an Innings in Cricket? Meaning and Rules
An innings is one team's turn to bat, or one batter's time at the crease. Learn how innings work in Tests, ODIs and T20s and the five ways they end.
What Is Retired Out in Cricket? Law 25 Explained
Retired out means a batter leaves voluntarily and is recorded out. Learn MCC Law 25, whether the batter can return, and how it differs from retired hurt.
Cricket Abbreviations and Full Forms: The Complete List
Every cricket abbreviation and its full form: ODI, LBW, DRS, DLS, NRR, SR, ER, TBC, TBD, RSA, DNB, c&b, st and more, grouped by where you see them.
ODI Full Form in Cricket: Meaning, 50 Overs and Rules
ODI means One Day International. Learn its 50-over format, 300 balls, bowler limits, powerplays, DLS rain rules and 60-over history.
How Many Players in a Cricket Team? 11 on the Field
A cricket team has 11 players on the field. Here is the full squad, the 12th man, what substitutes may do, concussion subs and the IPL Impact Player rule.
How Many Ways Can You Be Out in Cricket? All 10
All 10 ways a batter can be out under the MCC Laws, with Law numbers, how often each happens, and which dismissals actually credit the bowler.
ICC Full Form in Cricket: What It Stands For and Does
ICC full form in cricket is International Cricket Council, the global governing body based in Dubai. Here is what it runs and what it does not control.
What Is a Test Match in Cricket? The 5-Day Format
A Test match is cricket's five-day format: two innings a side, no over limit, a draw if nobody wins. The rules, Test status and the WTC explained.
What Is the Follow-On in Test Cricket? Law 14 Explained
The follow-on lets a captain make the trailing side bat again. Here are the 200-run rule, the margins for shorter matches, and when enforcing it backfired.
What Is a Super Over? Cricket Tie-Break Rules
How a Super Over works: six balls, three batters, one bowler, two wickets and out. Plus what happens when the Super Over itself ends in a tie.