MCC Laws of Cricket

THE LAWS OF CRICKET 2017 CODE (3rd Edition - 2022)

THE PREAMBLE – THE SPIRIT OF CRICKET

Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact that it should be played not only according to the Laws, but also within the Spirit of Cricket.

The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, match officials and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.

Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket.

• Respect your captain, teammates, opponents and the authority of the umpires.

• Play hard and play fair.

• Accept the umpire’s decision.

• Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct and encourage others to do likewise.

• Show self-discipline, even when things go against you.

• Congratulate the opposition on their successes and enjoy those of your own team.

• Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result.

Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket.

The players, umpires and scorers in a game of cricket may be of any gender, and the Laws apply equally. The use, throughout the text, of pronouns expressing a binary he/she is as inclusive as practicable, whilst retaining clarity. Except where specifically stated otherwise, every provision of the Laws is to be read as applying to all persons, regardless of gender.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 1 THE PLAYERS

1.1 Number of players

A match is played between two sides, each of eleven players, one of whom shall be captain.

By agreement a match may be played between sides of fewer than, or more than, eleven players, but not more than eleven players may field at any time.

If, during the match and for whatever reason, a side is reduced to fewer than the original number of nominated players, the match shall continue as long as it is possible to do so under the Laws or any agreements made before the toss.

1.2 Nomination and replacement of players

1.2.1 Each captain shall nominate his/her players in writing to one of the umpires before the toss.

1.2.2 No player may be replaced after the nomination without the consent of the opposing captain.

1.2.3 Any replacement player shall be considered the same player as the nominated player he/she replaced for the purposes of these Laws.

1.2.3.1 A replacement shall not bat in an innings in which the nominated player he/she is replacing has completed his/her innings.

1.2.3.2 Any unserved Penalty time, warnings or suspensions, that applied to the original nominated player will be inherited by his/her replacement.

1.3 Captain

1.3.1 If at any time the captain is not available, a deputy shall act for him/her.

1.3.2 If a captain is not available to nominate the players, then any person associated with that team may act as his/her deputy to do so. See 1.2.

1.3.3 At any time after the nomination of the players, only a nominated player can act as deputy in discharging the duties and responsibilities of the captain as stated in these Laws, including at the toss. See Law 13.4 (The toss).

1.4 Responsibility of captains

The captains are responsible at all times for ensuring that play is conducted within The Spirit of Cricket as well as within the Laws. See The Preamble – The Spirit of Cricket and Law 41.1 (Fair and unfair play – responsibility of captains)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 2 THE UMPIRES

2.1 Appointment and attendance

Before the match, two umpires shall be appointed, one for each end, to control the match as required by the Laws, with absolute impartiality. The umpires shall be present on the ground and report to the Executive of the ground at least 45 minutes before the scheduled start of each day’s play.

2.2 Change of umpire

An umpire shall not be changed during the match, other than in exceptional circumstances, unless he/she is injured or ill. If there has to be a change of umpire, the replacement shall act only as the striker’s end umpire unless the captains agree that the replacement should take full responsibility as an umpire.

2.3 Consultation with captains

Before the toss the umpires shall

2.3.1 meet with the captains; the umpires shall determine

2.3.1.1 the balls to be used during the match. See Law 4 (The ball).

2.3.1.2 the hours of play and the times and durations of any agreed intervals. In a match of one day’s duration, no specific time need be agreed for the tea interval. It may be agreed instead to take this interval between innings. See Law 11 (Intervals).

2.3.1.3 which clock or watch and back-up timepiece is to be used during the match.

2.3.1.4 the boundary of the field of play and allowances for boundaries, including whether any obstacle within the field of play is to be regarded as a boundary. See Law 19 (Boundaries).

2.3.1.5 the use of covers. See Law 10 (Covering the pitch).

2.3.1.6 any special conditions of play affecting the conduct of the match.

2.3.2 inform the scorers of agreements in 2.3.1.2, 2.3.1.3, 2.3.1.4 and 2.3.1.6.

2.4 The wickets, creases and boundaries

Before the toss and during the match, the umpires shall satisfy themselves that

2.4.1 the creases are correctly marked. See Law 7 (The creases).

2.4.2 the wickets are properly pitched. See Law 8 (The wickets).

2.4.3 the boundary of the field of play complies with the requirements of Laws 19.1 (Determining the boundary of the field of play), 19.2 (Identifying and marking the boundary) and 19.3 (Restoring the boundary).

2.5 Conduct of the match, implements and equipment

Before the toss and during the match, the umpires shall satisfy themselves that

2.5.1 the conduct of the match is strictly in accordance with the Laws.

2.5.2 the implements used in the match conform to the following:

2.5.2.1 Law 4 (The ball).

2.5.2.2 externally visible requirements of Law 5 (The bat) and Appendix B.

2.5.2.3 either Laws 8.2 (Size of stumps) and 8.3 (The bails) or, if applicable, Law 8.4 (Junior cricket).

2.5.3 no player uses equipment other than that permitted. See Appendix A.2. Note particularly therein the interpretation of ‘protective helmet’.

2.5.4 the wicket-keeper’s gloves comply with the requirements of Law 27.2 (Gloves).

2.6 Fair and unfair play

The umpires shall be the sole judges of fair and unfair play.

2.7 Fitness for play

2.7.1 It is solely for the umpires together to decide whether either conditions of ground, weather or light or exceptional circumstances mean that it would be dangerous or unreasonable for play to take place.

Conditions shall not be regarded as either dangerous or unreasonable merely because they are not ideal.

The fact that the grass and the ball are wet does not warrant the ground conditions being regarded as unreasonable or dangerous.

2.7.2 Conditions shall be regarded as dangerous if there is actual and foreseeable risk to the safety of any player or umpire.

2.7.3 Conditions shall be regarded as unreasonable if, although posing no risk to safety, it would not be sensible for play to proceed.

2.7.4 If the umpires consider the ground is so wet or slippery as to deprive the bowler of a reasonable foothold, the fielders of the power of free movement, or the batters of the ability to play their strokes or to run between the wickets, then these conditions shall be regarded as so bad that it would be dangerous and unreasonable for play to take place.

2.8 Suspension of play in dangerous or unreasonable circumstances

2.8.1 All references to ground include the pitch. See Law 6.1 (Area of pitch).

2.8.2 The Umpires shall immediately suspend play, or not allow play to start or to

recommence, if either umpire considers that the conditions of ground, weather or light, or any other circumstances are either dangerous or unreasonable.

2.8.3 When there is a suspension of play it is the responsibility of the umpires to monitor conditions. They shall make inspections as often as appropriate, unaccompanied by any players or officials. Immediately the umpires together agree that the conditions are no longer dangerous or unreasonable they shall call upon the players to resume play.

2.9 Position of umpires

The umpires shall stand where they can best see any act upon which their decision may be required.

Subject to this over-riding consideration, the bowler’s end umpire shall stand in a position so as not to interfere with either the bowler’s run-up or the striker’s view.

The striker’s end umpire may elect to stand on the off side instead of the on side of the pitch, provided he/she informs the captain of the fielding side, the striker and the other umpire.

2.10 Umpires changing ends

The umpires shall change ends after each side has had one completed innings. See Law

13.3 (Completed innings).

2.11 Disagreement and dispute

Where there is disagreement or dispute about any matter, the umpires together shall make the final decision. See also Law 31.6 (Consultation by umpires).

2.12 Umpire’s decision

An umpire may alter any decision provided that such alteration is made promptly and does not contradict Law 20.6 (Dead ball not to be revoked). This apart, an umpire’s decision, once made, is final.

2.13 Signals

2.13.1 The following code of signals shall be used by umpires:

2.13.1.1 Signals made while the ball is in play

Dead ball - by crossing and re-crossing the wrists below the waist. No ball - by extending one arm horizontally.

Out - by raising an index finger above the head. (If not out, the umpire shall call Not out.)

Wide - by extending both arms horizontally.

2.13.1.2 When the ball is dead, the bowler’s end umpire shall repeat the signals in 2.13.1.1, with the exception of the signal for Out, to the scorers.

2.13.1.3 The signals listed below shall be made to the scorers only when the ball is dead.

Boundary 4 - by waving an arm from side to side finishing with the arm across the chest.

Boundary 6 - by raising both arms above the head.

Bye - by raising an open hand above the head.

Commencement - by pointing to a raised wrist with the of last hour other hand.

Five Penalty - by repeated tapping of one shoulder runs awarded to with the opposite hand.

the batting side

Five Penalty - by placing one hand on the opposite runs awarded to shoulder. the fielding side

Leg bye - by touching a raised knee with the hand. New ball - by holding the ball above the head.

Revoke - by touching both shoulders, each with last signal the opposite hand.

Short run - by bending one arm upwards andtouching the nearer shoulder with the tips of the fingers.

The following signals are for Level 3 and 4 offences in Law 42 (Players’ conduct). Each signal has two parts, both of which should be acknowledged separately by the scorers.

Level 3 conduct - Part 1 - by putting one arm out to the side of the body and repeatedly raising it and lowering it.

- Part 2 - by raising both hands, all fingers spread,

to shoulder height, palms facing towards the scorers.

Level 4 conduct - Part 1 - by putting one arm out to the side of the body and repeatedly raising it and lowering it.

- Part 2 - by raising an index finger, held at shoulder height, to the side of the body.

2.13.1.4 All the signals in 2.13.1.3 are to be made by the bowler’s end umpire except that for Short run, which is to be signaled by the umpire at the end where short running occurs. However, the bowler’s end umpire shall be responsible both for the final signal of Short run to the scorers and, if more than one run is short, for informing them as to the number of runs to be recorded.

2.13.2 The umpire shall wait until each signal to the scorers has been separately acknowledged by a scorer before allowing play to proceed.

If several signals are to be used, they should be given in the order that the events occurred.

2.14 Informing the umpires

Throughout the Laws, wherever the umpires are to receive information from captains or other players, it will be sufficient for one umpire to be so informed and for him/her to inform the other umpire.

2.15 Correctness of scores

Consultation between umpires and scorers on doubtful points is essential. The umpires shall, throughout the match, satisfy themselves as to the correctness of the number of runs scored, the wickets that have fallen and, where appropriate, the number of overs bowled. They shall agree these with the scorers at least at every interval, other than a drinks interval, and at the conclusion of the match. See Laws 3.2 (Correctness of scores), 16.8 (Correctness of result) and 16.10 (Result not to be changed).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 3 THE SCORERS

3.1 Appointment of scorers
Two scorers shall be appointed to record all runs scored, all wickets taken and, where appropriate, number of overs bowled.
3.2 Correctness of scores
The scorers shall frequently check to ensure that their records agree. They shall agree with the umpires, at least at every interval, other than drinks intervals, and at the conclusion of the match, the runs scored, the wickets that have fallen and, where appropriate, the numberof overs bowled. See Law 2.15 (Correctness of scores).
3.3 Acknowledging signals
The scorers shall accept all instructions and signals given to them by the umpires and shall immediately acknowledge each separate signal.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 4 THE BALL

4.1 Weight and size

The ball, when new, shall weigh not less than 5.5 ounces/155.9 g, nor more than

5.75 ounces/163 g, and shall measure not less than 8.81 in/22.4 cm, nor more than 9 in/22.9 cm in circumference.

4.2 Approval and control of balls

4.2.1 All balls to be used in the match, having been determined by the umpires, shall be in the possession of the umpires before the toss and shall remain under their control throughout the match.

4.2.2 The umpire shall take possession of the ball in use at the fall of each wicket, at the start of any interval and at any interruption of play.

4.3 New ball

Unless an agreement to the contrary has been made before the match, either captain may demand a new ball at the start of each innings.

4.4 New ball in match of more than one day’s duration

In a match of more than one day’s duration, the captain of the fielding side may demand a new ball when the number of overs, excluding any part overs, bowled with the old one is equal to or greater than 80 overs. The umpire shall inform the other umpire and indicate to the batters and the scorers whenever a new ball is taken into play.

4.5 Ball lost or becoming unfit for play

If, during play, the ball cannot be found or recovered or the umpires agree that it has become unfit for play through normal use, the umpires shall replace it with a ball which has had wear comparable with that which the previous ball had received before the need for its replacement. When the ball is replaced, the umpire shall inform the batters and the fielding captain.

4.6 Specifications

The specifications as described in 4.1 shall apply to men’s cricket only. The following specifications shall apply to:

4.6.1 Women’s cricket

Weight: from 4.94 ounces/140 g to 5.31 ounces/151 g Circumference: from 8.25 in/21.0 cm to 8.88 in/22.5 cm.

4.6.2 Junior cricket – Under 13

Weight: from 4.69 ounces/133 g to 5.06 ounces/144 g Circumference: from 8.06 in/20.5 cm to 8.69 in/22.0 cm.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 5 THE BAT

5.1 The bat

5.1.1 The bat consists of two parts, a handle and a blade.

5.1.2 The basic requirements and measurements of the bat are set out in this Law with detailed specifications in Appendix B.

5.2 The handle

5.2.1 The handle is to be made principally of cane and/or wood.

5.2.2 The part of the handle that is wholly outside the blade is defined to be the upper portion of the handle. It is a straight shaft for holding the bat.

5.2.3 The upper portion of the handle may be covered with a grip as defined in Appendix B.2.2.

5.3 The blade

5.3.1 The blade comprises the whole of the bat apart from the handle as defined in 5.2 and inAppendix B.3.

5.3.2 The blade shall consist solely of wood.

5.3.3 All bats may have commercial identifications on the blade, the size of which must comply with the relevant specification in Appendix B.6.

5.4 Protection and repair

Subject to the specifications in Appendix B.4 and providing 5.5 is not contravened,

5.4.1 solely for the purposes of

either protection from surface damage to the face, sides and shoulders of the blade

or repair to the blade after surface damage,

material that is not rigid, either at the time of its application to the blade or subsequently, may be placed on these surfaces.

5.4.2 for repair of the blade after damage other than surface damage

5.4.2.1 solid material may be inserted into the blade.

5.4.2.2 The only material permitted for any insertion is wood with minimal essential adhesives.

5.4.3 to prevent damage to the toe, material may be placed on that part of the blade but shall not extend over any part of the face, back or sides of the blade.

5.5 Damage to the ball

5.5.1 For any part of the bat, covered or uncovered, the hardness of the constituent materials and the surface texture thereof shall not be such that either or both could cause unacceptable damage to the ball.

5.5.2 Any material placed on any part of the bat, for whatever purpose, shall similarly not be such that it could cause unacceptable damage to the ball.

5.5.3 For the purpose of this Law, unacceptable damage is any change that is greater than normal wear and tear caused by the ball striking the uncovered wooden surface of the blade.

5.6 Contact with the ball

In these Laws,

5.6.1 reference to the bat shall imply that the bat is held in the batter’s hand or a glove worn on his/her hand, unless stated otherwise.

5.6.2 contact between the ball and any of 5.6.2.1 to 5.6.2.4

5.6.2.1 the bat itself

5.6.2.2 the batter’s hand holding the bat

5.6.2.3 any part of a glove worn on the batter’s hand holding the bat

5.6.2.4 any additional materials permitted under 5.4

shall be regarded as the ball striking or touching the bat or being struck by the bat.

5.7 Bat size limits

5.7.1 The overall length of the bat, when the lower portion of the handle is inserted, shall not be more than 38 in/96.52 cm.

5.7.2 The blade of the bat shall not exceed the following dimensions: Width: 4.25in / 10.8 cm

Depth: 2.64in / 6.7 cm Edges: 1.56in / 4.0cm. Furthermore, it should also be able to pass through a bat gauge as described in Appendix B.8.

5.7.3 Except for bats of size 6 and less, the handle shall not exceed 52% of the overall length of the bat.

5.7.4 The material permitted for covering the blade in 5.4.1 shall not exceed 0.04 in/0.1 cm in thickness.

5.7.5 The maximum permitted thickness of protective material placed on the toe of the blade is 0.12 in/0.3 cm.

5.8 Categories of bat

5.8.1 Types A, B and C are bats conforming to 5.1 to 5.7 inclusive.

5.8.2 Type A bats may be used at any level of cricket.

5.8.3 The specifications for Type D bats are described in Appendix B.7 and are for use by junior players in junior cricket only.

5.8.4 Bats of Type B, Type C, Type D and any other bats may be used only at or below levels determined by the Governing Body for cricket in the country concerned.

5.8.5 Bats that do not qualify for any of the four categories A to D are not recognised in the Laws.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 6 THE PITCH

6.1 Area of pitch

The pitch is a rectangular area of the ground 22 yards/20.12 m in length and 10 ft/3.05 m in width. It is bounded at either end by the bowling creases and on either side by imaginary lines, one each side of the imaginary line joining the centres of the two middle stumps, each parallel to it and 5 ft/1.52 m from it. If the pitch is next to an artificial pitch which is closer than 5 ft/1.52 m from the middle stumps, the pitch on that side will extend only to the junction of the two surfaces. See 6.6, Law 8.1 (Description, width and pitching), Law 7.2 (The bowling crease) and Appendix C.

6.2 Fitness of pitch for play

The umpires shall be the sole judges of the fitness of the pitch for play. See Laws 2.7 (Fitness for play) and 2.8 (Suspension of play in dangerous or unreasonable conditions).

6.3 Selection and preparation

Before the match, the Ground Authority shall be responsible for the selection and preparation of the pitch. During the match, the umpires shall control its use and maintenance.

6.4 Changing the pitch

The pitch shall not be changed during the match unless the umpires decide that it is dangerous or unreasonable for play to continue on it and then only with the consent of both captains.

6.5 Non-turf pitches

In the event of a non-turf pitch being used, the artificial surface shall conform to the following measurements:

Length – a minimum of 58 ft/17.68 m Width – a minimum of 6 ft/1.83 m See Law 9.8 (Non-turf pitches).

6.6 Junior Cricket

The Governing Body for cricket in the country concerned shall determine the length of the pitch for junior cricket.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 7 THE CREASES

7.1 The creases

The positions of a bowling crease, a popping crease and two return creases shall be marked by white lines, as set out in 7.2, 7.3 and 7.4, at each end of the pitch. See Appendix C.

7.2 The bowling crease

The bowling crease, which is the back edge of the crease marking, is the line that marks the end of the pitch, as in Law 6.1 (Area of pitch). It shall be 8 ft 8 in/2.64 m in length.

7.3 The popping crease

The popping crease, which is the back edge of the crease marking, shall be in front of and parallel to the bowling crease and shall be 4 ft/1.22 m from it. The popping crease shall be marked to a minimum of 6 ft/1.83 m on either side of the imaginary line joining the centres of the two middle stumps and shall be considered to be unlimited in length.

7.4 The return creases

The return creases, which are the inside edges of the crease markings, shall be at right angles to the popping crease at a distance of 4 ft 4 in/1.32 m either side of the imaginary line joining the centres of the two middle stumps. Each return crease shall be marked from the popping crease to a minimum of 8 ft/2.44 m behind it and shall be considered to be unlimited in length.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 8 THE WICKETS

8.1 Description, width and pitching

Two sets of wickets shall be pitched opposite and parallel to each other in the centres of the bowling creases. Each set shall be 9 in/22.86 cm wide and shall consist of three wooden stumps with two wooden bails on top. See Appendix D.

8.2 Size of stumps

The tops of the stumps shall be 28 in/71.12 cm above the playing surface and shall be dome shaped except for the bail grooves. The portion of a stump above the playing surfaceshall be cylindrical apart from the domed top, with circular section of diameter not less than

1.38 in/3.50 cm nor more than 1.5 in/3.81 cm. See Appendix D.

8.3 The bails

8.3.1 The bails, when in position on top of the stumps,

- shall not project more than 0.5 in/1.27 cm above them.

- shall fit between the stumps without forcing them out of the vertical.

8.3.2 Each bail shall conform to the following specifications (see Appendix D): Overall length 4.31 in/10.95 cm

Length of barrel 2.13 in /5.40 cm

Longer spigot 1.38 in/3.50 cm

Shorter spigot 0.81 in/2.06 cm.

8.3.3 The two spigots and the barrel shall have the same centre line.

8.3.4 Devices aimed at protecting player safety by limiting the distance that a bail can travel off the stumps will be allowed, subject to the approval of the Governing Body for the match and the Ground Authority.

8.4 Junior cricket

The Governing Body for cricket in the country concerned shall determine the dimensions of the stumps and bails.

8.5 Dispensing with bails

The umpires may agree to dispense with the use of bails, if necessary. If they so agree then no bails shall be used at either end. The use of bails shall be resumed as soon as conditions permit. See Law 29.5 (Dispensing with bails).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 9 PREPARATION AND MAINTENANCE OF THE PLAYING AREA

9.1 Rolling

The pitch shall not be rolled during the match except as permitted in 9.1.1 and 9.1.2.

9.1.1 Frequency and duration of rolling

During the match the pitch may be rolled at the request of the captain of the batting side, for a period of not more than 7 minutes, before the start of each innings, other than the first innings of the match, and before the start of each subsequent day’s play. See 9.1.4.

9.1.2 Rolling after a delayed start

In addition to the rolling permitted above, if, after the toss and before the first innings of the match, the start is delayed, the captain of the batting side may request that the pitch be rolled for not more than 7 minutes. However, if the umpires together agree that the delay has had no significant effect on the state of the pitch, they shall refuse such request for rolling of the pitch.

9.1.3 Choice of rollers

If there is more than one roller available the captain of the batting side shall choose which one is to be used.

9.1.4 Timing of permitted rolling

The rolling permitted (maximum 7 minutes) before play begins on any day shall be started not more than 30 minutes before the time scheduled or rescheduled for play to begin. The captain of the batting side may, however, delay the start of such rolling until not less than 10 minutes before the time scheduled or rescheduled for play to begin.

9.2 Clearing debris from the pitch

9.2.1 The pitch shall be cleared of any debris

9.2.1.1 before the start of each day’s play. This shall be after the completion of mowing and before any rolling, not earlier than 30 minutes nor later than 10 minutes before the time or any rescheduled time for start of play.

9.2.1.2 between innings. This shall precede rolling if any is to take place.

9.2.1.3 at all intervals for meals.

9.2.2 The clearance of debris in 9.2.1 shall be done by sweeping, except where the umpires consider that this may be detrimental to the surface of the pitch. In this case the debris must be cleared from that area by hand, without sweeping.

9.2.3 In addition to 9.2.1, debris may be cleared from the pitch by hand, without sweeping, before mowing and whenever either umpire considers it necessary.

9.3 Mowing

9.3.1 Responsibility for mowing

9.3.1.1 All mowings which are carried out before the match shall be the sole responsibility of the Ground Authority.

9.3.1.2 All subsequent mowings shall be carried out under the supervision of the umpires.

9.3.2 The pitch and outfield

In order that throughout the match the ground conditions should be as nearly the same for both sides as possible, both the pitch and the outfield shall be mown on each day of the match on which play is expected to take place, if ground and weather conditions permit.

If, for reasons other than conditions of ground or weather, complete mowing of the outfield is not possible, the Ground Authority shall notify the captains and umpires of the procedure to be adopted for such mowing during the match.

9.3.3 Timing of mowing

9.3.3.1 Mowing of the pitch on any day shall be completed not later than 30 minutes before the time scheduled or rescheduled for play to begin on that day, before any sweeping prior to rolling. If necessary, debris may be removed from the pitch before mowing, by hand, without sweeping. See 9.2.3.

9.3.3.2 Mowing of the outfield on any day shall be completed not later than 15 minutes before the time scheduled or rescheduled for play to begin on that day.

9.4 Watering the pitch

The pitch shall not be watered during the match.

9.5 Re-marking creases

Creases shall be re-marked whenever either umpire considers it necessary.

9.6 Maintenance of footholes

The umpires shall ensure that the holes made by the bowlers and batters are cleaned out and dried whenever necessary to facilitate play.

In matches of more than one day’s duration, the umpires shall allow, if necessary, the re- turfing of footholes made by the bowlers in their delivery strides, or the use of quick-setting fillings for the same purpose.

9.7 Securing of footholds and maintenance of pitch

During play, umpires shall allow the players to secure their footholds by the use of sawdust provided that no damage to the pitch is caused and that Law 41 (Unfair play) is not contravened.

9.8 Non-turf pitches

Wherever appropriate, the provisions set out in 9.1 to 9.7 shall apply.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 10 COVERING THE PITCH

10.1 Before the match

The use of covers before the match is the responsibility of the Ground Authority and may include full covering if required.

However, the Ground Authority shall grant suitable facility to the captains to inspect the pitch before the nomination of their players and to the umpires to discharge their duties as laid down in Laws 2 (The umpires), 6 (The pitch), 7 (The creases), 8 (The wickets), and 9 (Preparation and maintenance of the playing area).

10.2 During the match

Unless determined otherwise before the toss, on each night of the match and in inclement weather at any time during the match

10.2.1 the whole pitch and a minimum of 4 ft/1.22 m beyond it at each end shall be covered.

10.2.2 the bowlers’ run-ups, where possible, shall be covered.

10.3 Removal of covers

10.3.1 If after the toss the pitch is covered overnight, the covers shall be removed as soon as practicable on each day that play is expected to take place.

10.3.2 If covers are used during the day as protection from inclement weather, or if inclement weather delays the removal of overnight covers, they shall be removed promptly as soon as conditions allow.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 11 INTERVALS

11.1 An interval

11.1.1 The following shall be classed as intervals:

- The period between close of play on one day and the start of the next day’s play.

- Intervals between innings.

- Intervals for meals.

- Intervals for drinks.

- Any other agreed interval.

11.1.2 Only these intervals shall be considered as scheduled breaks for the purposes of Law 24.2.6 (Fielder absent or leaving the field of play).

11.2 Duration of intervals

11.2.1 An interval for lunch or tea shall be of the duration determined under Law 2.3 (Consultation with captains), taken from the call of Time before the interval until the call of Play on resumption after the interval.

11.2.2 An interval between innings shall be 10 minutes, commencing from the close of an innings until the call of Play for the start of the next innings. See, however, 11.3,

11.5 and 11.6.

11.3 Allowance for interval between innings

In addition to the provisions of 11.5 and 11.6,

11.3.1 if an innings ends when 10 minutes or less remains before the time agreed for close of play on any day, there shall be no further play on that day. No change shall be made to the time for the start of play on the following day on account of the 10 minute interval between innings.

11.3.2 if a captain declares an innings closed or forfeits an innings during an interruption in play of more than 10 minutes duration, provided that at least 10 minutes remains of the interruption, no adjustment shall be made to the time for resumption of play on account of the 10-minute interval between innings, which shall be considered as included in the interruption. If less than 10 minutes remains of the interruption when the captain declares the innings closed, or forfeits an innings, the next innings shall commence 10 minutes after the declaration or forfeiture is made.

11.3.3 if a captain declares an innings closed or forfeits an innings during any interval other than an interval for drinks, provided that at least 10 minutes remains of the interval, the interval shall be of the agreed duration and shall be considered to include the 10- minute interval between innings. If less than 10 minutes remains of the interval when the captain declares the innings closed, or forfeits an innings, the interval shall be extended as necessary and the next innings shall commence 10 minutes after the declaration or forfeiture is made.

11.4 Changing agreed times of intervals

If, at any time during the match,

either Playing time is lost through adverse conditions of ground, weather or light or in exceptional circumstances,

or the players have occasion to leave the field other than at a scheduled interval,

the time of the lunch interval or of the tea interval may be changed if the two umpires and both captains so agree, providing the requirements of 11.2 and 11.5, 11.6, 11.7 and 11.8.3 are not contravened.

11.5 Changing agreed time for lunch interval

11.5.1 If an innings ends when 10 minutes or less remains before the agreed time for lunch, the interval shall be taken immediately. It shall be of the agreed duration and shall be considered to include the 10-minute interval between innings.

11.5.2 If because of adverse conditions of ground, weather or light, or in exceptional circumstances, a stoppage occurs when 10 minutes or less remains before the agreed time for lunch, then, whether or not agreement is reached in the circumstances of 11.4, the interval shall be taken immediately. It shall be of the agreed duration. Play shall resume at the end of this interval or as soon after as conditions permit.

11.5.3 If the players have occasion to leave the field for any reason when more than 10 minutes remains before the agreed time for lunch then, unless the umpires and captains together agree to alter it, lunch shall be taken at the agreed time.

11.6 Changing agreed time for tea interval

11.6.1 If an innings ends when 30 minutes or less remains before the agreed time for tea, the interval shall be taken immediately. It shall be of the agreed duration and shall be considered to include the 10-minute interval between innings.

11.6.2 If, when 30 minutes remains before the agreed time for tea, an interval between innings is already in progress, play shall resume at the end of the 10-minute interval, if conditions permit.

11.6.3 If, because of adverse conditions of ground, weather or light, or in exceptional circumstances, a stoppage occurs when 30 minutes or less remains before theagreed time for tea, then unless

either there is an agreement to change the time for tea, as permitted in 11.4or the captains agree to forgo the tea interval, as permitted in 11.9

the interval shall be taken immediately. The interval shall be of the agreed duration. Play shall resume at the end of the interval or as soon after as conditions permit.

11.6.4 If a stoppage is already in progress when 30 minutes remains before the agreed time for tea, 11.4 shall apply.

11.7 Lunch or tea interval – 9 wickets down

For the lunch interval and for the tea interval

if either 9 wickets are already down when 3 minutes remains to the agreed time for the interval,

or the 9th wicket falls within this 3 minutes, or at any time up to and including the final ball of the over in progress at the agreed time for the interval,

then the provisions of Law 12.5.2 shall not apply and the interval will not be taken until the end of the over that is in progress 30 minutes after the originally agreed time for the interval, unless the players have cause to leave the field of play or the innings is completed earlier.

For the purposes of this section of Law, the retirement of a batter is not to be considered equivalent to the fall of a wicket.

11.8 Intervals for drinks

11.8.1 If on any day the umpires determine that there shall be intervals for drinks, the option to take such drinks shall be available to either side. Each interval shall be kept as short as possible and in any case shall not exceed 5 minutes.

11.8.2 Unless, as permitted in 11.9, the captains agree to forgo it, a drinks interval shall be taken at the end of the over in progress when the agreed time is reached. If, however, a wicket falls or a batter retires within 5 minutes of the agreed time then drinks shall be taken immediately.

No other variation in the timing of drinks intervals shall be permitted except asprovided for in 11.8.3.

11.8.3 If an innings ends or the players have to leave the field of play for any other reason within 30 minutes of the agreed time for a drinks interval, the umpires and captains together may rearrange the timing of drinks intervals in that session.

11.8.4 Intervals for drinks may not be taken during the last hour of the match, as defined in Law 12.6 (Last hour of match – number of overs). Subject to this limitation, the umpires shall determine the times for such intervals, if any, before the toss and on each subsequent day not later than 10 minutes before play is scheduled to start.

11.9 Agreement to forgo intervals

At any time during the match, the captains may agree to forgo the tea interval or any of the drinks intervals. The umpires shall be informed of the decision.

When play is in progress, the batters at the wicket may deputise for their captain in making an agreement to forgo a drinks interval in that session.

11.10 Scorers to be informed

The umpires shall ensure that the scorers are informed of all agreements about hours of play and intervals and of any changes made thereto as permitted under this Law.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 12 START OF PLAY; CESSATION OF PLAY

12.1 Call of Play

The bowler’s end umpire shall call Play before the first ball of the match and on the resumption of play after any interval or interruption.

12.2 Call of Time

The bowler’s end umpire shall call Time, when the ball is dead, at the end of any session of play or as required by the Laws. See also Law 20.3 (Call of Over or Time).

12.3 Removal of bails

After the call of Time, the bails shall be removed from both wickets.

12.4 Starting a new over

Another over shall always be started at any time during the match, unless an interval is to be taken in the circumstances set out in 12.5.2, if the umpire, walking at normal pace, has arrived at the position behind the stumps at the bowler’s end before the time agreed for the next interval, or for the close of play, has been reached.

12.5 Completion of an over

Other than at the end of the match,

12.5.1 if the agreed time for an interval is reached during an over, the over shall be completed before the interval is taken, except as provided for in 12.5.2.

12.5.2 when less than 3 minutes remains before the time agreed for the next interval, the

interval shall be taken immediately if either a batter is dismissed or retires

or the players have occasion to leave the field

whether this occurs during an over or at the end of an over. Except at the end of an innings, if an over is thus interrupted it shall be completed on the resumption of play.

12.6 Last hour of match – number of overs

When one hour of Playing time of the match remains, according to the agreed hours of play, the over in progress shall be completed. The next over shall be the first of a minimum of 20 overs which must be bowled, provided that a result is not reached earlier and provided that there is no interval or interruption in play.

The bowler’s end umpire shall indicate the commencement of this 20 overs to the players and to the scorers. The period of play thereafter shall be referred to as the Last hour, whatever its actual duration.

When the minimum number of overs have been bowled in the Last hour, further overs can be started only if the original time for the close of play has not been reached. See 12.7 and 12.8.

12.7 Last hour of match – interruptions of play

If there is an interruption in play during the Last hour of the match, the minimum number of overs to be bowled shall be reduced from 20 as follows.

12.7.1 The time lost for an interruption is counted from the call of Time until the time for resumption as decided by the umpires.

12.7.2 One over shall be deducted for every complete 3 minutes of time lost.

12.7.3 In the case of more than one such interruption, the minutes lost shall not be aggregated; the calculation shall be made for each interruption separately.

12.7.4 If, when one hour of Playing time remains, an interruption is already in progress

12.7.4.1 only the time lost after this moment shall be counted in the calculation.

12.7.4.2 the over in progress at the start of the interruption shall be completed on resumption and shall not count as one of the minimum number of overs to be bowled.

12.7.5 If, after the start of the Last hour, an interruption occurs during an over, the over shall be completed on resumption of play. The two part-overs shall between them count as one over of the minimum number to be bowled.

12.8 Last hour of match – intervals between innings

If an innings ends so that a new innings is to be started during the Last hour of the match, the interval starts with the end of the innings and is to end 10 minutes later.

12.8.1 If this interval is already in progress at the start of the Last hour then, to determine the number of overs to be bowled in the new innings, calculations are to be made as set out in 12.7.

12.8.2 If the innings ends after the Last hour has started, two calculations are to be made, as set out in 12.8.3 and 12.8.4. The greater of the numbers yielded by these two calculations is to be the minimum number of overs to be bowled in the new innings.

12.8.3 Calculation based on overs remaining:

- At the conclusion of the innings, the number of overs that remain to be bowled, of the minimum in the Last hour, to be noted.

- If this is not a whole number it is to be rounded up to the next whole number.

- Three overs, for the interval, to be deducted from the resulting number to determine the number of overs still to be bowled.

12.8.4 Calculation based on time remaining:

- At the conclusion of the innings, the time remaining until the agreed time for close of play to be noted.

- 10 minutes, for the interval, to be deducted from this time to determine the Playing time remaining.

- A calculation to be made of one over for every complete 3 minutes of the Playing time remaining, plus one more over if a further part of 3 minutes remains.

12.9 Conclusion of match

12.9.1 The match is concluded

12.9.1.1 as soon as a result as defined in Laws 16.1 to 16.4 and 16.5.1 (The result) is reached.

12.9.1.2 as soon as both

the minimum number of overs for the Last hour are completed and the agreed time for close of play is reached,

unless a result is reached earlier.

12.9.1.3 in the case of an agreement under Law 13.1.2 (Number of innings), as soon as the final innings is completed as defined in Law 13.3.5 (Completed innings).

12.9.2 The match is concluded if, without a conclusion having been reached under 12.9.1, the players leave the field for adverse conditions of ground, weather or light, or in exceptional circumstances, and no further play is possible.

12.10 Completion of last over of match

The over in progress at the close of play on the final day shall be completed unless either a result has been reached

or the players have occasion to leave the field. In this case there shall be no resumption of play except in the circumstances of Law 16.9 (Mistakesin scoring) and the match shall be at an end.

12.11 Bowler unable to complete an over during last hour of match

If, for any reason, a bowler is unable to complete an over during the Last hour, Law 17.8 (Bowler incapacitated or suspended during an over) shall apply. The separate parts of such an over shall count as one over of the minimum to be bowled.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 13 INNINGS

13.1 Number of innings

13.1.1 A match shall be one or two innings for each side according to agreement reached before the match.

13.1.2 It may be agreed to limit any innings to a number of overs or to a period of time. If such an agreement is made then

13.1.2.1 in a one-innings match a similar agreement shall apply to both innings.

13.1.2.2 in a two-innings match similar agreements shall apply to the first innings of each side

or to the second innings of each side or to both innings of each side.

For both one-innings and two-innings matches, the agreement must also include criteria for determining the result when neither of Laws 16.1 (A Win – two-innings match) or 16.2 (A Win – one-innings match) applies.

13.2 Alternate innings

In a two-innings match each side shall take their innings alternately except in the cases provided for in Law 14 (The follow-on) or in Law 15.2 (Forfeiture of an innings).

13.3 Completed innings

A side’s innings is to be considered as completed if any of the following applies:

13.3.1 the side is all out.

13.3.2 at the fall of a wicket or the retirement of a batter, further balls remain to be bowled but no further batter is available to come in.

13.3.3 the captain declares the innings closed.

13.3.4 the captain forfeits the innings.

13.3.5 in the case of an agreement under 13.1.2,

either the prescribed number of overs has been bowled or the prescribed time has expired

as appropriate.

13.4 The toss

The captains shall toss a coin for the choice of innings, on the field of play and in the presence of one or both of the umpires, not earlier than 30 minutes, nor later than 15 minutes before the scheduled or any rescheduled time for the start of play. Note, however, the provisions of Law 1.3 (Captain).

13.5 Decision to be notified

As soon as the toss is completed, the captain of the side winning the toss shall decide whether to bat or to field and shall notify the opposing captain and the umpires of this decision. Once notified, the decision cannot be changed

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 14 THE FOLLOW-ON

14.1 Lead on first innings

14.1.1 In a two-innings match of 5 days or more, the side which bats first and leads by at least 200 runs shall have the option of requiring the other side to follow their innings.

14.1.2 The same option shall be available in two-innings matches of shorter duration with the minimum leads as follows:

- 150 runs in a match of 3 or 4 days;

- 100 runs in a 2-day match;

- 75 runs in a 1-day match.

14.2 Notification

A captain shall notify the opposing captain and the umpires of his/her intention to enforce the follow-on. Once notified, the decision cannot be changed.

14.3 First day’s play lost

If no play takes place on the first day of a match of more than one day’s duration, 14.1 shall apply in accordance with the number of days remaining from the start of play. The day on which play first commences shall count as a whole day for this purpose, irrespective of the time at which play starts.

Play will have taken place as soon as, after the call of Play, the first over has started. See Law 17.2 (Start of an over).

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 15 DECLARATION AND FORFEITURE

15.1 Time of declaration

The captain of the side batting may declare an innings closed, when the ball is dead, at any time during the innings. A declared innings shall be considered to be a completed innings.

15.2 Forfeiture of an innings

A captain may forfeit either of his/her side’s innings at any time before the commencement of that innings. A forfeited innings shall be considered to be a completed innings.

15.3 Notification

A captain shall notify the opposing captain and the umpires of any decision to declare or to forfeit an innings. Once notified, the decision cannot be changed.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 16 THE RESULT

16.1 A Win – two-innings match

The side which has scored a total of runs in excess of that scored in the two completed innings of the opposing side shall win the match. See Law 13.3 (Completed innings). Note also 16.6.

16.2 A Win – one-innings match

The side which has scored in its one innings a total of runs in excess of that scored by the opposing side in its one completed innings shall win the match. See Law 13.3 (Completed innings). Note also 16.6.

16.3 Umpires awarding a match

Regardless of any agreement under Law 13.1.2 (Number of innings),

16.3.1 a match shall be lost by a side which

16.3.1.1 concedes defeat

16.3.1.2 in the opinion of the umpires refuses to play. If so, the umpires shall award the match to the other side.

16.3.2 if an umpire considers that an action by any player or players might constitute a refusal by either side to play then the umpires together shall ascertain the cause of the action. If they then decide together that this action does constitute a refusal to play by one side, they shall so inform the captain of that side. If the captain persists in the action the umpires shall award the match in accordance with 16.3.1. See alsoLaw 42.6.1 (Captain refusing to remove a player from the field).

16.3.3 if action as in 16.3.2 takes place after play has started and does not constitute a refusal to play

- Playing time shall be counted as lost from the call of Time to the call of Play, excluding intervals (Law 11) and suspensions of play (Law 2.8).

- the time for close of play on that day shall be extended by this length of time.

- if applicable, no overs shall be deducted during the last hour of the match solely on account of this time.

16.4 Matches in which there is an agreement under Law 13.1.2

For any match in which there is an agreement under Law 13.1.2 (Number of innings), if the result is not determined in any of the ways stated in 16.1, 16.2 or 16.3, then the result shall be as laid down in that agreement.

16.5 All other matches – A Tie or Draw

16.5.1 A Tie

The result of a match shall be a Tie when all innings have been completed and the scores are equal.

16.5.2 A Draw

The result of a match shall be a Draw when it is not determined in any of the ways stated in 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.4, 16.5.1, or when Law 42.6.2 (Captain refusing to remove a player from the field) is applied.

16.6 Winning hit or extras

16.6.1 As soon as a result is reached as defined in 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.4 or 16.5.1, the match is at an end. Nothing that happens thereafter, except as in Law 41.17.2 (Penalty runs), shall be regarded as part of it. Note also 16.9.

16.6.2 The side batting last will have scored enough runs to win only if its total of runs is sufficient without including any runs completed by the batters before the completion of a catch, or the obstruction of a catch, from which the striker could be dismissed.

16.6.3 If a boundary is scored before the batters have completed sufficient runs to win the match, the whole of the boundary allowance shall be credited to the side’s total and, in the case of a hit by the bat, to the striker’s score.

16.7 Statement of result

If the side batting last wins the match without losing all its wickets, the result shall be stated as a win by the number of wickets still then to fall.

If, without having scored a total of runs in excess of the total scored by the opposing side, the innings of the side batting last has been completed, but as the result of an award of 5 Penalty runs its total of runs is then sufficient to win, the result shall be stated as a win to that side by Penalty runs.

If the side fielding last wins the match, the result shall be stated as a win by runs.

If the match is decided by one side conceding defeat or refusing to play, the result shall be stated as Match Conceded or Match Awarded, as the case may be.

16.8 Correctness of result

Any decision as to the correctness of the scores shall be the responsibility of the umpires. See Law 2.15 (Correctness of scores).

16.9 Mistakes in scoring

If, after the players and umpires have left the field in the belief that the match has been concluded, the umpires discover that a mistake in scoring has occurred which affects the result then, subject to 16.10, they shall adopt the following procedure.

16.9.1 If, when the players leave the field, the side batting last has not completed itsinnings and

either the number of overs to be bowled in the Last hour, or in that innings, has not been completed

or the agreed time for close of play, or for the end of the innings, has not been reached then, unless one side concedes defeat, the umpires shall order play to resume.

Unless a result is reached sooner, play will then continue, if conditions permit, until the prescribed number of overs has been completed and either time for close of play has been reached or the allotted time for the innings has expired, as appropriate. The number of overs and time remaining shall be taken as they were at the call of Time for the supposed conclusion of the match. No account shall be taken of the time between that moment and the resumption of play.

16.9.2 If, at this call of Time, the overs have been completed and no Playing time remains, or if the side batting last has completed its innings, the umpires shall immediately inform both captains of the necessary corrections to the scores and to the result.

16.10 Result not to be changed

Once the umpires have agreed with the scorers the correctness of the scores at the conclusion of the match – see Laws 2.15 (Correctness of scores) and 3.2 (Correctness of scores) – the result cannot thereafter be changed.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 17 THE OVER

17.1 Number of balls

The ball shall be bowled from each end alternately in overs of 6 valid balls.

17.2 Start of an over

An over has started when the bowler starts his/her run-up or, if there is no run-up, starts his/her action for the first delivery of that over.

17.3 Validity of balls

17.3.1 A ball shall not count as one of the 6 balls of the over unless it is delivered, even though, as in Law 38.3 (Non-striker leaving his/her ground early) a batter may be dismissed or some other incident occurs without the ball having been delivered.

17.3.2 A ball delivered by the bowler shall not count as one of the 6 balls of the over

17.3.2.1 if it is called dead, or is to be considered dead, before the striker has had an opportunity to play it. See Law 20.7 (Dead ball; ball counting as one of over).

17.3.2.2 if it is called dead in the circumstances of Law 20.4.2.6. Note also the special provisions of Law 20.4.2.5 (Umpire calling and signalling Dead ball).

17.3.2.3 if it is a No ball. See Law 21 (No ball).

17.3.2.4 if it is a Wide. See Law 22 (Wide ball).

17.3.2.5 when any of Laws 24.4 (Player returning without permission), 28.2 (Fielding the ball), 41.4 (Deliberate attempt to distract striker), or 41.5 (Deliberate distraction, deception or obstruction of batter) is applied.

17.3.3 Any deliveries other than those listed in 17.3.1 and 17.3.2 shall be known as valid balls. Only valid balls shall count towards the 6 balls of the over.

17.4 Call of Over

When 6 valid balls have been bowled and when the ball becomes dead, the umpire shall call Over before leaving the wicket. See also Law 20.3 (Call of Over or Time).

17.5 Umpire miscounting

17.5.1 If the umpire miscounts the number of valid balls, the over as counted by the umpire shall stand.

17.5.2 If, having miscounted, the umpire allows an over to continue after 6 valid balls have been bowled, he/she may subsequently call Over when the ball becomes dead after any delivery, even if that delivery is not a valid ball.

17.6 Bowler changing ends

A bowler shall be allowed to change ends as often as desired, provided he/she does not bowl two overs consecutively, nor bowl parts of each of two consecutive overs, in the same innings.

17.7 Finishing an over

17.7.1 Other than at the end of an innings, a bowler shall finish an over in progress unless incapacitated or suspended under any of the Laws.

17.7.2 If for any reason, other than the end of an innings, an over is left uncompleted at the start of an interval or interruption, it shall be completed on resumption of play.

17.8 Bowler incapacitated or suspended during an over

If for any reason a bowler is incapacitated while running up to deliver the first ball of an

over, or is incapacitated during an over, the umpire shall call and signal Deadball. If a bowler is incapacitated or suspended during an over, another bowler shall complete the over from the same end, provided that he/she does not bowl two overs consecutively, nor bowl parts of each of two consecutive overs, in that innings.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 18 SCORING RUNS

18.1 A run

The score shall be reckoned by runs. A run is scored

18.1.1 so often as the batters, at any time while the ball is in play, have crossed and made good their ground from end to end.

18.1.2 when a boundary is scored. See Law 19 (Boundaries).

18.1.3 when Penalty runs are awarded. See 18.6.

18.2 Runs disallowed and runs not scored

Wherever in these Laws provision is made for the scoring of runs or awarding of penalties, such runs and penalties will be subject to any provisions that may be applicable for a run to be disallowed or a run not to be scored (see Appendix A.11) or for the non-award of penalties.

When runs are disallowed, the one-run penalty for No ball or Wide shall stand and 5-run penalties shall be allowed, except for Penalty runs under Law 28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side).

18.3 Short runs

18.3.1 A run is short if a batter fails to make good his/her ground in turning for a further run.

18.3.2 Although a short run shortens the succeeding one, the latter if completed shall not be regarded as short. A striker setting off for the first run from in front of the popping crease may do so also without penalty.

18.4 Unintentional short runs

Except in the circumstances of 18.5,

18.4.1 if either batter runs a short run, the umpire concerned shall, unless a boundary is scored, call and signal Short run as soon as the ball becomes dead and that run shall not be scored.

18.4.2 if, after either or both batters run short, a boundary is scored the umpire concerned shall disregard the short running and shall not call or signal Short run, unless the boundary is a result of an overthrow or wilful act of a fielder (see Law 19.8 – Overthrow or wilful act of fielder).

18.4.3 if both batters run short in one and the same run, this shall be regarded as only one short run.

18.4.4 if more than one run is short then, subject to 18.4.2 and 18.4.3, all runs called as short shall not be scored.

18.4.5 if there has been more than one short run, the umpire shall inform the scorers as to the number of runs to be recorded.

18.5 Deliberate short runs

18.5.1 If either umpire considers that one or both batters deliberately ran short at that umpire’s end, the umpire concerned shall, when the ball is dead, call and signal Short run and inform the other umpire of what has occurred and apply 18.5.2.

18.5.2 The bowler’s end umpire shall

- disallow all runs to the batting side

- return any not out batter to his/her original end

- signal No ball or Wide to the scorers, if applicable

- repeat the Short run signal to the scorers

- award 5 Penalty runs to the fielding side

- award any other 5-run Penalty that is applicable except for Penalty runs under Law

28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side)

- inform the scorers of the number of runs to be recorded

- inform the captain of the fielding side and, as soon as practicable, the captain of the batting side of the reason for this action.

18.5.3 The umpires together shall report the occurrence as soon as possible after the match to the Executive of the offending side and to any Governing Body responsible for the match, who shall take such action as is considered appropriate against the captain, any other individuals concerned and, if appropriate, the team.

18.6 Runs awarded for penalties

Runs shall be awarded for penalties under 18.5, and Laws 21 (No ball), 22 (Wide ball), 24.4 (Player returning without permission), 26.4 (Penalties for contravention), 28.2 (Fielding the ball), 28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side), 41 (Unfair play) and 42 (Players’ conduct).

Note, however, the restrictions on the award of Penalty runs under 18.5, and Laws 23.3 (Leg byes not to be awarded), 25.7 (Restriction on the striker’s runner), 28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side), 34 (Hit the ball twice), 41.14 (Batter damaging the pitch) and

41.15 (Striker in protected area).

18.7 Runs scored for boundaries

Runs shall be scored for boundary allowances under Law 19 (Boundaries).

18.8 Runs scored when a batter is dismissed

When a batter is dismissed, any runs for penalties awarded to either side shall stand. No other runs shall be credited to the batting side, except as follows.

18.8.1 If a batter is dismissed Obstructing the field, the batting side shall also score any runs completed before the offence.

If, however, the obstruction or distraction prevented a catch being made, no runs other than penalties shall be scored.

18.8.2 If a batter is dismissed Run out, the batting side shall also score any runs completed before the wicket was fairly broken.

If, however, a striker who has a runner is himself/herself dismissed Run out under Law 25.6.5 (Dismissal and conduct of a batter and his/her runner), any runscompleted by the runner and the other batter shall be disallowed.

18.9 Runs scored when the ball becomes dead other than at the fall of a wicket

When the ball becomes dead for any reason other than the fall of a wicket, or is called dead by an umpire, unless there is specific provision otherwise in the Laws, any runs for penalties awarded to either side shall be scored. Note however the provisions of Laws 23.3(Leg byes not to be awarded) and 28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side).

Additionally, the batting side shall be credited with,

all runs completed by the batters before the incident or call of Dead ball

and the run in progress if the batters had already crossed at the instant of the incident or call of Dead ball. Note specifically, however, the provisions of Law 41.5.8 (Deliberate distraction, deception or obstruction of batter).

18.10 Crediting of runs scored

Unless stated otherwise in any of the Laws,

18.10.1 if the ball is struck by the bat, all runs scored by the batting side shall be credited to the striker, except for the following:

- an award of 5 Penalty runs, which shall be scored as Penalty runs

- the one-run penalty for a No ball, which shall be scored as a No balls extra.

18.10.2 if the ball is not struck by the bat, runs shall be scored as Penalty runs, Byes, Leg byes, No ball extras or Wides as the case may be. If Byes or Leg byes accrue from a No ball, only the one-run penalty for No ball shall be scored as such, and the remainder as Byes or Leg byes as appropriate.

18.10.3 the bowler shall be debited with:

- all runs scored by the striker

- all runs scored as No ball extras

- all runs scored as Wides.

18.11 Batter returning to original end

18.11.1 When the striker is dismissed in any of the circumstances in 18.11.1.1 to 18.11.1.8, the not out batter shall return to his/her original end.

18.11.1.1 A dismissal in the circumstances of Law 25.6.4 or 25.6.5 (Dismissal and conduct of a batter and his/her runner).

18.11.1.2 Bowled.

18.11.1.3 Stumped.

18.11.1.4 Hit the ball twice.

18.11.1.5 LBW.

18.11.1.6 Hit wicket.

18.11.1.7 Caught

18.11.1.8 Obstructing the field, where the obstruction or distraction prevents the striker being out Caught

18.11.2 The batters shall return to their original ends when

18.11.2.1 a boundary is scored, unless as a result of an overthrow or wilful act of a fielder (see Law 19.8).

18.11.2.2 runs are disallowed for any reason.

18.11.2.3 the batters at the wicket decide to do so under Law 41.5 (Deliberate distraction, deception or obstruction of batter).

18.12 Batter returning to wicket he/she has left

18.12.1 When a batter is dismissed in any of the ways in 18.12.1.1 to 18.12.1.2, thenot out batter shall return to the wicket he/she has left but only if the batters had not already crossed at the instant of the incident causing the dismissal. If runs are to be disallowed, however, the not out batter shall return to his/her original end.

18.12.1.1 Obstructing the field, where the obstruction or distraction does not prevent the striker being out Caught.

18.12.1.2 Run out other than under Law 25.6.4 or 25.6.5 (Dismissal and conduct of a batter and his/her runner).

18.12.2 If, while a run is in progress, the ball becomes dead for any reason other than the dismissal of a batter, the batters shall return to the wickets they had left, but only if they had not already crossed in running when the ball became dead. If, however, any of the circumstances of 18.11.2.1 to 18.11.2.3 apply, the batters shall return to their original ends.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 19 BOUNDARIES

19.1 Determining the boundary of the field of play

19.1.1 Before the toss, the umpires shall determine the boundary of the field of play, which shall be fixed for the duration of the match. See Law 2.3.1.4 (Consultation with captains).

19.1.2 The boundary shall be determined such that no part of any sightscreen will, at any stage of the match, be within the field of play.

19.2 Identifying and marking the boundary

19.2.1 Wherever practicable, the boundary shall be marked by means of a continuous white line or by an object in contact with the ground.

19.2.2 If the boundary is marked by means of a white line,

19.2.2.1 the edge of the line nearest the pitch shall be the boundary.

19.2.2.2 an object such as a flag, post or board, used merely to highlight the position of a line marked on the ground, must be placed beyond the boundary and is not itself to be regarded as being the boundary.

19.2.3 If the boundary is marked by means of an object that is in contact with the ground the boundary will be the edge of the grounded part of the object which is nearest the pitch.

19.2.4 Where there is no white line or object providing continuous marking, objects such as flags, posts or boards may be used to mark specific points on the boundary. The boundary shall be the imaginary straight line on the ground joining the two nearest marked points.

19.2.5 A boundary that cannot be identified as in 19.2.2, 19.2.3 or 19.2.4 shall be determined by the umpires before the toss.

19.2.6 An obstacle within the field of play, other than as in 19.2.7, shall not be regarded as a boundary unless so determined by the umpires before the toss. See Law 2.3.1.4 (Consultation with captains).

19.2.7 A person, animal or object coming onto the field of play while the ball is in play shall not be regarded as a boundary unless the umpires determine otherwise at the time that contact between the ball and such a person, animal or object is made. The decision shall be made for each separate occurrence. See also Law 20.4.2.12 (Umpire calling and signalling Dead ball)

19.3 Restoring the boundary

If a solid object used to mark the boundary is disturbed for any reason, then

19.3.1 the boundary shall be considered to be in its original position.

19.3.2 the object shall be returned to its original position as soon as is practicable; if play is taking place, this shall be as soon as the ball is dead.

19.3.3 if some part of a fence or other marker has come within the field of play, that part shall be removed from the field of play as soon as is practicable; if play is taking place, this shall be as soon as the ball is dead.

19.4 Ball grounded beyond the boundary

19.4.1 The ball in play is grounded beyond the boundary if it touches

- the boundary or any part of an object used to mark the boundary;

- the ground beyond the boundary;

- any object that is grounded beyond the boundary.

19.4.2 The ball in play is to be regarded as being grounded beyond the boundary if

- a fielder, grounded beyond the boundary as in 19.5, touches the ball;

- a fielder, after catching the ball within the boundary, becomes grounded beyond the boundary while in contact with the ball, before completing the catch.

19.5 Fielder grounded beyond the boundary

19.5.1 A fielder is grounded beyond the boundary if some part of his/her person is in contact with any of the following:

- the boundary or any part of an object used to mark the boundary;

- the ground beyond the boundary;

- any object that is in contact with the ground beyond the boundary;

- another fielder who is grounded beyond the boundary, if the umpire considers that it was the intention of either fielder that the contact should assist in the fielding of the ball.

19.5.2 A fielder who is not in contact with the ground is considered to be grounded beyond the boundary if his/her final contact with the ground, before his/her first contact with the ball after it has been delivered by the bowler, was not entirely within the boundary.

19.6 Boundary allowances

19.6.1 Before the toss the umpires shall determine the runs to be allowed for boundaries with both captains. In deciding the allowances the umpires and captains shall be guided by the prevailing custom of the ground.

19.6.2 Unless determined differently under 19.6.1, 6 runs shall be allowed for a Boundary 6; and 4 runs for a Boundary 4. See also 19.7.

19.7 Runs scored from boundaries

19.7.1 A Boundary 6 will be scored if and only if the ball has been struck by the bat and is first grounded beyond the boundary without having been in contact with the ground within the field of play. This shall apply even if the ball has previously touched a fielder.

19.7.2 A Boundary 4 will be scored when a ball that is grounded beyond the boundary

- whether struck by the bat or not, was first grounded within the boundary, or

- has not been struck by the bat.

19.7.3 When a boundary is scored, the batting side, except in the circumstances of 19.8, shall be awarded whichever is the greater of

19.7.3.1 the allowance for the boundary

19.7.3.2 the runs completed by the batters together with the run in progress if they had already crossed at the instant the boundary is scored.

19.7.4 When the runs in 19.7.3.2 exceed the boundary allowance they shall replace the boundary allowance for the purposes of Law 18.12.2 (Batter returning to wicket he/she has left).

19.7.5 The scoring of Penalty runs by either side is not affected by the scoring of a boundary.

19.8 Overthrow or wilful act of fielder

If the boundary results from an overthrow or from the wilful act of a fielder, the runs scored shall be

any runs for penalties awarded to either side and the allowance for the boundary

and the runs completed by the batters,

and the run in progress, if the batters had already crossed at the instant of the throw or wilful act of the fielder.

Law 18.12.2 (Batter returning to wicket he/she has left) shall apply as from the instant of the throw or wilful act of the fielder.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 20 DEAD BALL

20.1 Ball is dead

20.1.1 The ball becomes dead when

20.1.1.1 it is finally settled in the hands of the wicket-keeper or of the bowler.

20.1.1.2 a boundary is scored. See Law 19.7 (Runs scored from boundaries).

20.1.1.3 a batter is dismissed. The ball will be deemed to be dead from the instant of the incident causing the dismissal.

20.1.1.4 whether played or not it becomes trapped between the bat and person of a batter or between items of his/her clothing or equipment.

20.1.1.5 whether played or not it lodges in the clothing or equipment of a batter or the clothing of an umpire.

20.1.1.6 under either of Laws 24.4 (Player returning without permission) or 28.2 (Fielding the ball) there is an offence resulting in an award of Penalty runs. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

20.1.1.7 there is contravention of Law 28.3 (Protective helmets belonging to the fielding side).

20.1.1.8 the match is concluded in any of the ways stated in Law 12.9 (Conclusion of match).

20.1.2 The ball shall be considered to be dead when it is clear to the bowler’s end umpire that the fielding side and both batters at the wicket have ceased to regard it as in play.

20.2 Ball finally settled

Whether the ball is finally settled or not is a matter for the umpire alone to decide.

20.3 Call of Over or Time

Neither the call of Over (see Law 17.4 – Call of over), nor the call of Time (see Law 12.2 – Call of Time) is to be made until the ball is dead, either under 20.1 or under 20.4.

20.4 Umpire calling and signaling Dead ball

20.4.1 When the ball has become dead under 20.1, the bowler’s end umpire may call and signal Dead ball if it is necessary to inform the players.

20.4.2 Where either umpire is required to call and signal Dead ball under 20.4.2.1 to 20.4.2.14, the ball will be considered to be dead at the instant of the incident causing the ball to become dead. However, where the Law specifically provides for the call to be delayed, so as not to disadvantage the non-offending side, under Law 25.7 (Restriction on the Striker’s Runner), Law 34.4 (Runs permitted from the ball lawfully struck more than once), Law 41.2.1 (Unfair actions) and Law 42.1.2 (Unacceptable conduct), the ball will be considered to be dead at the point of the call.

Either umpire shall call and signal Dead ball when

20.4.2.1 intervening in a case of unfair play.

20.4.2.2 a possibly serious injury to a player or umpire occurs.

20.4.2.3 leaving his/her normal position for consultation.

20.4.2.4 one or both bails fall from the striker’s wicket before the striker has had the opportunity of playing the ball.

20.4.2.5 the striker is not ready for the delivery of the ball and, if the ball is delivered, makes

no attempt to play it. Provided the umpire is satisfied that the striker had adequate reason for not being ready, the ball shall not count as one of the over.

20.4.2.6 the striker is distracted by any noise or movement or in any other way while preparing to receive, or receiving a delivery. This shall apply whether the source of the distraction is within the match or outside it. Note also 20.4.2.7. The ball shall not count as one of the over.

20.4.2.7 there is an instance of a deliberate attempt to distract under either of Laws 41.4 (Deliberate attempt to distract striker) or 41.5 (Deliberate distraction, deception or obstruction of batter). The ball shall not count as one of the over.

20.4.2.8 the bowler drops the ball accidentally before delivery.

20.4.2.9 the bowler throws the ball towards the striker’s end before entering his/her delivery stride

20.4.2.10 the ball does not leave the bowler’s hand for any reason other than an attempt to run out the non-striker under Law 38.3 (Non-striker leaving his/her ground early).

20.4.2.11 satisfied that the ball in play cannot be recovered.

20.4.2.12 he/she considers that either side has been disadvantaged by a person, animal or other object within the field of play. However, if both umpires consider the ball would have reached the boundary regardless of the intervention, the boundary should stand (see Law 19.2.7 – Identifying and marking the boundary).

20.4.2.13 the striker attempts to play the ball and no part of his/her person, whether grounded or raised, remains within the pitch as defined in Law 6.1 (Area of pitch).

20.4.2.14 he/she is required to do so under any of the Laws not included above.

20.5 Ball ceases to be dead

The ball ceases to be dead – that is, it comes into play – when the bowler starts his/her run- up or, if there is no run-up, starts his/her bowling action.

20.6 Dead ball not to be revoked

Once the ball is dead, no revoking of any decision can bring the ball back into play for that delivery.

20.7 Dead ball; ball counting as one of over

20.7.1 When a ball which has been delivered is called dead or is to be considered dead then, other than as in 20.7.2,

20.7.1.1 it will not count in the over if the striker has not had an opportunity to play it.

20.7.1.2 unless No ball or Wide ball has been called, it will be a valid ball if the striker has had an opportunity to play it, except in the circumstances of 20.4.2.6 and Laws 24.4 (Player returning without permission), 28.2 (Fielding the ball), 41.4 (Deliberate attempt to distract striker) and 41.5 (Deliberate distraction, deception or obstruction of batter).

20.7.2 In 20.4.2.5, the ball will not count in the over only if both conditions of not attempting to play the ball and having an adequate reason for not being ready are met. Otherwise the delivery will be a valid ball.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LAW 21 NO BALL

21.1 Mode of delivery

21.1.1 The umpire shall ascertain whether the bowler intends to bowl right- handed or left-handed, over or round the wicket, and shall so inform the striker.

It is unfair if the bowler fails to notify the umpire of a change in his/her mode of delivery. In this case the umpire shall call and signal No ball.

21.1.2 Underarm bowling shall not be permitted except by special agreement before the

match.

21.2 Fair delivery – the arm

For a delivery to be fair in respect of the arm the ball must not be thrown.

A ball is fairly delivered in respect of the arm if, once the bowler’s arm has reached the level of the shoulder in the delivery swing, the elbow joint is not straightened partially or completely from that instant until the ball has left the hand. This definition shall not debar a bowler from flexing or rotating the wrist in the delivery swing.

Although it is the primary responsibility of the striker’s end umpire to assess the fairness of a delivery in this respect, there is nothing in this Law to debar the bowler’s end umpire from calling and signaling No ball if he/she considers that the ball has been thrown.

21.3 Ball thrown or delivered underarm – action by umpires

21.3.1 After the bowler has entered his/her delivery stride, if in the opinion of either umpire the ball has been thrown or, unless permitted by agreement in 21.1.2, delivered underarm, that umpire shall call and signal No ball and, when the ball is dead, inform the other umpire of the reason for the call.

The bowler’s end umpire shall then

- warn the bowler, indicating that this is a first and final warning. This warning shall apply to that bowler throughout the innings.

- inform the captain of the fielding side of the reason for this action.

- inform the batters at the wicket of what has occurred.

21.3.2 If either umpire considers that, in that innings, a further delivery by the same bowler is thrown or, unless permitted by agreement in 21.1.2, delivered underarm, he/she shall call and signal No ball and when the ball is dead inform the other umpire of the reason for the call.

The bowler’s end umpire shall then

- direct the captain of the fielding side to suspend the bowler immediately from bowling. The over shall, if applicable, be completed by another bowler, who shall neither have bowled the previous over or part thereof nor be allowed to bowl any part of the next over. The bowler thus suspended shall not bowl again in that innings.

- inform the batters at the wicket and, as soon as practicable, the captain of the batting side of the reason for this action.

21.3.3 The umpires together shall report the occurrence as soon as possible after the match to the Executive of the offending side and to any Governing Body responsible for the match, who shall take such action as is considered appropriate against the captain, any other individuals concerned and, if appropriate, the team.

21.4 Bowler throwing towards striker’s end before delivery

If the bowler throws the ball towards the striker’s end before entering the delivery stride, it is not a No ball and the procedure stated in 21.3 shall not apply. However, the umpire shall call and signal Dead ball under Law 20.4.2.9.

21.5 Fair delivery – the feet

For a delivery to be fair in respect of the feet, in the delivery stride

21.5.1 the bowler’s back foot must land within and not touching the return crease on the side of his/her stated mode of delivery.

21.5.2 the bowler’s front foot must land with some part of the foot, whether grounded or raised

- on the same side of the imaginary line joining the two middle stumps as the return crease described in 21.5.1, and

- behind the popping crease.

If the bowler’s end umpire is not satisfied that all of these three conditions have been met, he/she shall call and signal No ball. See Law 41.8 (Bowling of deliberate front foot No ball).

21.6 Bowler breaking wicket in delivering ball

If the ball is delivered and if the non-striker is not dismissed under Law 38.3 (Non-striker leaving his/her ground early), either umpire shall call and signal No ball if the bowler breaks the wicket at any time after the ball comes into play and before completion of the stride after the delivery stride. This shall include any clothing or other object that falls from his/her person and breaks the wicket. See Appendix A.12. Laws 20.4.2.8, 20.4.2.10 (Umpire calling and signalling Dead ball) and 21.12 will apply.

21.7 Ball bouncing more than once, rolling along the ground or pitching off the pitch

The umpire shall call and signal No ball if a ball which he/she considers to have been delivered, without having previously touched bat or person of the striker,

- bounces more than once or rolls along the ground before it reaches the popping crease or

- pitches wholly or partially off the pitch as defined in Law 6.1 (Area of pitch) before it reaches the line of the striker’s wicket. When a non-turf pitch is being used, this will apply to any ball that wholly or partially pitches off the artificial surface.

21.8 Ball causing the striker to leave the pitch, or ball coming to rest in front of striker’s wicket

If a ball delivered by the bowler comes to rest in front of the line of the striker’s wicket or is so far from the pitch that the striker would need to leave the pitch to attempt to play the ball (see Law 25.8 – Striker’s right to play the ball), without having previously touched the bat or person of the striker, the umpire shall call and signal No ball and immediately call and signal Dead ball.

21.9 Fielder intercepting a delivery

If, except in the circumstances of Law 27.3 (Position of wicket-keeper), a ball delivered by the bowler makes contact with any part of a fielder’s person before it either makes contact with the striker’s bat or person, or it passes the striker’s wicket, the umpire shall call and signal No ball and immediately call and signal Dead ball.

21.10 Ball bouncing over head height of striker

The umpire shall call and signal No ball for any delivery which, after pitching, passes or would have passed over head height of the striker standing upright at the popping crease.

21.11 Call of No ball for infringement of other Laws

In addition to the instances above, No ball is to be called and signalled as required by the following Laws.

Law 27.3 – Position of wicket-keeper Law 28.4 – Limitation of on side fielders

Law 28.5 – Fielders not to encroach on pitch

Law 41.6 – Bowling of dangerous and unfair short, pitched deliveries Law 41.7 – Bowling of dangerous and unfair non-pitching deliveries Law 41.8 – Bowling of deliberate front foot No ball.

21.12 Revoking a call of No ball.

An umpire shall revoke the call of No ball if Dead ball is called under any of Laws 20.4.2.4, 20.4.2.5, 20.4.2.6, 20.4.2.8 or 20.4.2.10 (Umpire calling and signaling Dead ball).

21.13 No ball to override Wide.

A call of No ball shall override the call of Wide ball at any time. See Laws 22.1(Judging a Wide) and 22.2 (Call and signal of Wide ball).

21.14 Ball not dead.

The ball does not become dead on the call of No ball.

21.15 Penalty for a No ball

A penalty of one-run shall be awarded instantly on the call of No ball. Unless the call is revoked, the penalty shall stand even if a batter is dismissed. It shall be in addition to any other runs scored, any boundary allowance and any other runs awarded for penalties.

21.16 Runs resulting from a No ball – how scored.

The one-run penalty shall be scored as a No ball extra and shall be debited against the bowler. If other Penalty runs have been awarded to either side these shall be scored as stated in Law 41.17 (Penalty runs). Any runs completed by the batters, or any boundary allowance shall be credited to the striker if the ball has been struck by the bat; otherwise, they shall also be scored as Byes or Leg byes as appropriate.

21.17 No ball not to count.

A No ball shall not count as one of the over. See Law 17.3 (Validity of balls).

21.18 Out from a No ball

When No ball has been called, neither batter shall be out under any of the Laws except 34 (Hit the ball twice), 37 (Obstructing the field) or 38 (Run out).

Click Here For More Laws

CrazzOnCricket

Search This Blog