15 Rules Of Cricket Every Player Should Know

Cricket is a sport loved by millions worldwide. However, understanding the game can be tricky for beginners due to its specific rules. Whether you’re stepping onto the field for the first time or simply want to learn more, mastering the 15 rules of cricket is essential.

In this post, we’ll cover the 15 rules of cricket every player should know, so you can play the game confidently.

1. The Objective of Cricket

At the heart of cricket, the goal is simple: the team that scores more runs wins. In professional formats, two teams of 11 players compete, with one team batting and the other bowling and fielding. The batting team tries to score runs, while the fielding team works to limit them and dismiss batters. Once all players in the batting team are dismissed, or the set overs are bowled, the teams switch roles.

2. The Two Teams

A standard game involves two teams with 11 players each. While the team batting focuses on scoring runs, the team fielding attempts to stop them. The fielding team uses bowlers to try and dismiss the batsmen, while the rest of the fielders catch, stop, and throw the ball to restrict runs.

3. The Cricket Pitch and Its Layout

A crucial cricket rule and regulation is the layout of the playing area. The cricket pitch is a 22-yard long, rectangular strip in the center of the field. At either end are the wickets, consisting of three stumps and two bails. The bowler bowls from one end, and the batsman faces the bowler from the other. The pitch defines much of the game’s action.

4. Scoring Runs

One of the most fundamental cricket rules revolves around how to score runs. A run is scored when the batsmen (the one facing the bowler and his partner) run to the opposite ends of the pitch after the ball is hit. Alternatively, runs can be awarded if the ball reaches the boundary of the field (4 runs for hitting the ground first, 6 runs for a ball hit over the boundary without touching the ground).

5. Dismissing a Batsman

In cricket, there are several ways to dismiss a batsman:

• Bowled: The ball hits the stumps, dislodging the bails.
• Caught: A fielder catches the ball before it touches the ground.
• LBW (Leg Before Wicket): The ball hits the batsman’s leg in front of the stumps, preventing the ball from hitting the wickets.
• Run Out: The fielders hit the stumps with the ball while the batsmen are running between the wickets.
• Stumped: The wicketkeeper removes the bails while the batsman is out of the crease and attempting a shot.

Knowing these dismissal methods helps both batsmen and fielders understand their objectives on the field.

6. The Bowling Action

One of the key basic rules of cricket is the legal delivery of the ball. Bowlers must bowl with a straight arm, and no part of the bowling arm should bend during the action. Over-arm bowling is mandatory, and throwing or under-arm bowling is illegal.

Each bowler is given a set number of deliveries (known as overs) in which they attempt to dismiss the batsman or limit scoring.

7. Types of Bowling

Bowlers have different techniques to challenge the batsman:

• Fast Bowling: The bowler focuses on speed, often exceeding 140 km/h, making it difficult for batsmen to react.
• Spin Bowling: A bowler delivers the ball slowly, but with a spinning motion that makes the ball change direction upon hitting the ground.

Both styles have their place and add depth to the game.

8. The Role of Fielders

Fielders have a crucial role in stopping runs and dismissing batsmen. The captain positions fielders around the ground to maximize the chances of catching the ball or preventing boundaries. In addition to stopping runs, fielders can throw the ball back to the wickets to attempt a run out.

9. The Importance of the Wicketkeeper

The wicketkeeper stands behind the batsman and the stumps, ready to catch any missed balls. This position is vital because they are responsible for stumping and catching the ball to prevent runs. A skilled wicketkeeper can significantly impact the game’s outcome.

10. The Role of the Umpires

Umpires ensure that the cricket rules and regulations are followed on the field. There are usually two on-field umpires, one standing behind the bowler’s end and the other near the batsman. They make important decisions regarding dismissals, no-balls, wides, and run-outs. In some formats, there’s also a third umpire who uses video technology to assist in close decisions.

11. Overs and Innings

Cricket games are divided into overs and innings. An over consists of six legal deliveries bowled by one bowler. Once the over is completed, a new bowler delivers the next over from the opposite end of the pitch.

In limited-overs cricket (such as One Day Internationals and Twenty20), each team is allowed a set number of overs to bat, after which the innings ends. In Test cricket, teams are given two innings each and the match can last up to five days.

12. No-Ball and Wide

A no-ball is called when the bowler oversteps the crease while delivering the ball or bowls an illegal delivery. The batting team is awarded an extra run and an additional ball is added to the over. A wide ball is declared if the ball is bowled too far from the batsman to make contact. This also results in an extra run and a re-bowled delivery.

13. The Power of Boundaries

Boundaries play a significant role in how a cricket match progresses. If the ball hits the boundary after bouncing, it counts as 4 runs. If it clears the boundary without touching the ground, 6 runs are awarded. Knowing how to hit and defend boundaries is key for both batsmen and bowlers.

14. The Spirit of Cricket

While not a written rule, the spirit of cricket is just as important as the official laws. This code promotes respect, fairness, and sportsmanship among players, umpires, and even fans. Playing within the spirit of cricket is considered an essential part of the game, and players who break this unwritten rule often face criticism.

15. The Importance of Teamwork

Cricket is a team sport, and no individual can win a match alone. Whether batting, bowling, or fielding, cooperation and communication are vital for success. Teams that work together effectively are often more successful than teams with individual star players.

Conclusion

These 15 rules of cricket form the backbone of the game and ensure that it’s played fairly and competitively. Whether you’re new to the game or simply refreshing your knowledge, understanding these cricket rules and regulations is key to becoming a better player or fan. Remember, cricket is not just about physical skill—knowing the rules, strategies, and the spirit of the game is just as important.

Whether you’re out on the field or watching from the stands, cricket is a sport that thrives on its tradition, teamwork, and sportsmanship.