The Cricket Glossary
From 'Bouncers' to 'Yorkers', cricket has a language all of its own. Our comprehensive glossary defines the key terms used by commentators, players, and fans alike.
Common Terms & Phrases
If you're new to the game or just need a refresher, here are the essential terms you'll hear during a live broadcast:
Bouncer
A fast, short-pitched delivery intended to reach the batter around chest or head height.
Duck
When a batter is out without scoring a single run. A 'Golden Duck' is being out on the first ball faced.
Googly
A deceptive delivery from a leg-spin bowler that turns in the opposite direction to their standard ball.
Maiden Over
An over in which no runs (from the bat or wides/no-balls) are scored by the batting side.
No Ball
An illegal delivery, usually because the bowler stepped over the line. Results in an extra run and a 'Free Hit' in short formats.
Yorker
A full-pitched delivery aimed directly at the batter's feet (or the bottom of the wickets).
The Scoring Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Century | A score of 100 or more runs by a single batter in an innings. |
| Half-Century | A score of 50 to 99 runs by a single batter. |
| Extras | Runs awarded to the batting side that are not hit by the batter (Wides, No Balls, Byes, Leg Byes). |
| Strike Rate | The average number of runs a batter scores per 100 balls faced. |
| Economy Rate | The average number of runs a bowler concedes per over. |
Specialist Roles
All-Rounder
A player who excels at both batting and bowling, providing high value to their team in both disciplines.
Wicketkeeper
The specialist fielder who stands directly behind the wickets to catch balls and attempt stumpings or run-outs.
Need more help?
The best way to learn these terms is by watching live matches. Check our TV Guide to find the next live broadcast and hear these terms in context from professional commentators.