Cricket Rules Explained
The laws of cricket can seem complex, but the core objective is simple. Our beginner's guide breaks down the fundamental mechanics of the game, helping you enjoy the action on TV with confidence.
The Core Objective
Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of 11 players. The team that scores the most runs wins the match. One team bats (tries to score runs) while the other team bowls and fields (tries to stop the runs and get the batters 'out').
Batting
Two batters are on the pitch at once. They score runs by hitting the ball and running between the two sets of wickets, or by hitting the ball to the boundary edge.
Bowling
The bowler delivers the ball towards the batter, attempting to hit the wickets or induce a mistake. An 'over' consists of six legal deliveries.
Fielding
Ten fielders (plus the bowler) are spread around the ground to catch the ball, stop runs, and return the ball to the wickets to run out the batters.
Ways to Get Out (Dismissals)
A batter is dismissed when the fielding side successfully appeals for one of the following. Once out, the batter leaves the field and is replaced by a teammate.
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Bowled | The bowler hits the wickets with the ball and the bails fall off. |
| Caught | The batter hits the ball and a fielder catches it before it touches the ground. |
| LBW | 'Leg Before Wicket' — the ball hits the batter's leg when it would have hit the wickets. |
| Run Out | A fielder hits the wickets with the ball while the batter is outside their 'safe zone' (the crease). |
| Stumped | The wicketkeeper hits the wickets while the batter is out of their crease and not attempting a run. |
Scoring Runs
Batters can score runs in several ways:
Running
Successful trips between the wickets. One trip equals one run. Batters often run 'singles', 'twos', or 'threes'.
Boundaries
4 Runs: The ball hits the ground before reaching the boundary.
6 Runs: The ball is hit over the boundary without touching the ground.
The Umpire's Role
Two umpires on the field make the final decisions on dismissals, boundaries, and illegal deliveries (like 'No Balls' or 'Wides'). In professional cricket, they are supported by a Third Umpire who uses video technology (DRS) to review close calls.