Cricket is a game with a rich history, and so are the rules. Newcomers may find it challenging to understand and adapt to the cricket rules. However, understanding the cricket rules and regulations is the key to enjoying the game and also improving your play. In one of our blogs, we have already talked in detail about the box cricket rules, so in this blog, let's deeply dig into the complete rules and regulations of cricket for better understanding and also for better performance. Read the blog till the end to know more.
What Are the Rules and Regulations of Cricket?
The rules and regulations of cricket are the set of rules and laws that take the game in the right direction. These rules are followed by every international and domestic match, depending on the type of match involved during the gameplay. However, the rules might vary depending on the different formats of the game.
The Playing Field
Understanding the playing field is the first step towards understanding the rules and regulations of cricket. Here are a few standard terms that you must go hand in hand with for a proper understanding of the game. Let's first understand the cricket ground dimensions to understand other things.
Pitch
A pitch is a 22-yard strip in the center where the batting and the bowling take place.
Wickets
Wickets represent three stumps and two bails placed at each end of the pitch.
Boundary
Boundaries are mostly the lines marking the edge of the field; hitting the ball across them earns runs for the teams.
Creases
Lines on the pitch marking the bowler's area and the batter's safe zone.
Basic Structure of the Game
Cricket is played between two teams with an overall eleven players. The structure of the game is where one team bats while the other team bowls and fields. The main aim of the batting team is to score as many runs as possible, whereas the bowling team tries to dismiss batters and limit the runs. After one team finishes batting, the other gets the turn to bat, and the team with the most runs at the end wins. This is a simple structure of the game, which is entirely guided by the rules and regulations of the cricket game.
How Runs Are Scored?
There are moves through which the teams score runs in different ways.
Running
In running, the batter hits the ball and runs to the other end of the pitch.
Boundaries
Even when the ball crosses the boundaries, the batting team wins runs. But it depends on how the ball has crossed the boundary. If the ball has touched the ground, then it is called a four, whereas if it directly crosses the boundary, it is called a six.
Extras
Extras are those runs which are granted to the batting team for the mistakes made by the bowling team, like the bowls or the no balls.
Ways a Batter Can Get Out
Dismissals occur in several circumstances. These are the cases when the batter gets out.
Bowled
When the ball hits the stumps, it is a dismissal for the batters.
Caught
When a fielder catches the ball before it touches the ground.
Run out
A run out is when fielders hit the stumps before the batter reaches the crease.
Stumped
Stumped is when the wicketkeeper removes the bails while the batter is outside the crease.
Rules for Bowling and Fielding
Well, there is an appropriate way to deliver a ball. Follow these steps for better gameplay.
A bowler must deliver the ball with the straight arm, not by throwing.
Each over in the bowling consists of 6 legal deliveries.
If the bowler steps out of the crease, it is called a no-ball.
If the match is a limited-overs match, each bowler can bowl only a fixed number of overs.
Fielding restrictions apply in one-day and T20 matches.
No more than five fielders can be on the leg side at the same time.
The substitute players can field, but they are not allowed to bowl or bat.
Forms of Cricket and Their Rules
Test Matches
In the test match, which is played over 5 days, each team bats twice. White uniforms and a red ball are used in the test matches.
One Day International
In the One Day Internationals, each team gets 50 overs, and players wear colored jerseys and play with the white ball.
Twenty20
In the T20, each team gets 20 overs. The T20 is fast-paced, short, and is designed for quick entertainment.
The Umpire's Role
The best umpires are those considered the decision makers of the field, where they make sure that the game is played according to the rules and regulations. They judge the dismissals and keep a track of the game, and they are responsible for maintaining fairness throughout the match. They have a vital role in the gameplay to keep the players on track. However, in international cricket, the Decision Review System or the DRS is an advancement in sports technology that helps the umpire, spectators, and players in ball tracking and ultra-edge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rules and Regulations of Cricket
Why Should Beginners Learn the Rules?
When you master the rules and regulations of cricket, every ball becomes exciting, and you will understand why the batsman is out or why the delivery is called a no-ball.
Are the Rules Same for All Formats?
The core rules are the same for all types of cricket, but formats like T20 and ODI have extra rules like powerplays and over limits.
Who Makes the Rules and Regulations of Cricket?
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in London is responsible for writing and updating the rules.
Cricket is a game loved by millions, and the rules and regulations of cricket are what keep it fair, balanced, and thrilling. So, if you're a beginner, don't feel overwhelmed. Start with the basics, and slowly you will fall in love with the beauty of cricket.
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