Cricket is one of the world’s most strategic sports, and batting isn’t just about hitting the ball. Every batsman must follow specific batting restrictions in cricket to ensure fair play and balance between bat and ball. These restrictions vary across formats—Test, ODI, and T20 cricket—and are crucial for maintaining the spirit of the game.
For fans, players, and learners, understanding these rules provides deeper insights into cricket’s complexities. From staying inside the crease to avoiding unfair movements, these restrictions shape the way a batsman performs on the pitch. This guide explains all the important batting restrictions, with examples from international cricket, ensuring you’ll never be confused about what’s allowed and what’s not.
1. Crease-Related Restrictions
- A batsman must stay inside the batting crease to avoid being stumped or run out.
- While facing the bowler, at least some part of the bat or foot must remain grounded inside the crease.
- Leaving the crease before the ball is bowled can result in dismissal.
- For example, in limited-overs cricket, many batsmen risk leaving early during powerplays to score quickly, but it also increases the risk of being stumped.
2. Restriction on Hitting the Ball Twice
- According to Law 34 of the MCC cricket laws, a batsman cannot intentionally strike the ball twice.
- However, they are allowed to hit it again only to protect their stumps (e.g., preventing the ball from rolling onto the wicket).
- If the ball is struck twice deliberately to gain runs, the batsman is declared out.
Batting Restrictions in Cricket – Comparison Table
| Rule / Restriction | T20 Cricket | ODI (One Day International) | Test Cricket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powerplay Overs | First 6 overs – only 2 fielders outside 30-yard circle | First 10 overs – only 2 fielders outside 30-yard circle | No powerplays; fielders can spread as per captain’s choice |
| Fielding Restrictions After Powerplay | 5 fielders allowed outside 30-yard circle for rest of innings | 3 phases: Overs 11–40 (4 fielders outside), Overs 41–50 (5 fielders outside) | No restrictions; only general fielding rules apply |
| Batsman Time to Take Guard | Must be ready within 60 seconds after dismissal of previous batter (new ICC rule 2023) | Same 60 seconds rule applies | 2 minutes allowed (new MCC rule) |
| Batsman Retirement | Can retire hurt or tactical retirement (sometimes used strategically) | Can retire hurt or tactical | Same, but tactical retirement very rare |
| Short-Pitch Deliveries | 1 per over allowed | 2 per over allowed | No strict limit; umpire decides if excessive |
| Wide & No-Ball Penalties | Extra ball + 1 run; in T20, a Free Hit follows a No-Ball | Extra ball + 1 run; Free Hit follows No-Ball | Same penalty but no Free Hit for no-ball in Tests |
| Strike Rotation | Must run or rotate strike quickly, dot balls build pressure due to shorter format | Strike rotation crucial, especially in middle overs | Patience allowed, defensive play common |
| Bat Size & Weight Restrictions | Standardized (no thicker edges allowed as per ICC rules) | Same ICC bat restrictions apply | Same ICC bat restrictions apply |
| Slow Over Rate Penalty | Fielding side penalized with fewer fielders outside circle in last overs | Penalty of 1 fielder reduction outside circle if rate is slow | Runs penalty or fines for captain, no field restrictions |
| Review System (DRS) | Limited reviews available (usually 1 per team in T20Is) | 2 reviews per innings | 3 reviews per innings |
3. Obstructing the Field Restrictions
- A batsman is not allowed to deliberately obstruct the fielding side by:
- Blocking a fielder’s throw.
- Changing running direction purposely to prevent a run-out.
- Using their hand to stop the ball when it is not for self-protection.
- This law ensures that batting remains fair and prevents misuse of body movement.
4. Restriction on Runner (Limited Use)
- In the past, batsmen with injuries could use a runner.
- However, under modern cricket rules (post-2011 by ICC), runners are no longer allowed in international cricket.
- A batsman must either continue to bat despite injury or retire hurt.
5. Powerplay Batting Restrictions (ODIs & T20s)
- During Powerplay overs, fielding restrictions directly affect batting strategies.
- Only 2 fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle during the initial overs:
- ODI Powerplay: First 10 overs.
- T20 Powerplay: First 6 overs.
- Batsmen often take risks during this phase, which can lead to quick scoring but also higher dismissals.
Comparison Table: Batting Restrictions in Cricket
| Aspect | T20 Cricket | ODI Cricket | Test Cricket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powerplay Overs | First 6 overs – only 2 fielders outside 30-yard circle | First 10 overs – only 2 fielders outside 30-yard circle | No formal powerplay |
| Field Restrictions (After Powerplay) | Max 5 fielders outside 30-yard circle | Middle overs (11–40): Max 4 outside; Last 10 overs: Max 5 outside | No restrictions on fielders outside circle |
| Free Hit Rule | Applies after every no-ball (front foot) | Applies after every no-ball (front foot) | No free hit rule |
| Short-Pitch Deliveries | Max 1 per over | Max 2 per over | Usually unlimited but monitored for intimidation |
| Bouncer Usage | 1 per over allowed | 2 per over allowed | Depends on umpire’s discretion |
| Time Restrictions for Batters | 90 seconds to take guard | 2 minutes to take guard | 3 minutes to take guard |
| Strike Rotation | Quick singles heavily relied upon | Balance of singles and boundaries | Patience and defense dominate |
| Dismissal Pressure | Aggressive approach, high dismissal risk | Balanced approach with some risk | Focus on survival, less pressure on scoring rate |
6. Legality of Shots – No Dangerous Play
- A batsman cannot play shots that are considered dangerous or unfair.
- Examples include:
- Handling the ball without permission.
- Distracting the bowler with sudden movements.
- Switch-hits and reverse sweeps are legal, but they must follow fair play standards.
7. Restriction on Retiring Out
- A batsman can retire hurt due to injury, but if they choose to leave without the umpire’s permission, it is considered “retired out.”
- Retired hurt = not out.
- Retired out = dismissed.
- This rule prevents misuse, ensuring batsmen don’t leave the field for tactical reasons.
8. Restrictions on Equipment Use
- A batsman must use equipment that complies with ICC regulations.
- Restrictions include:
- No using bats with unfair modifications (like extra thickness or illegal material).
- Gloves must be standard and not padded excessively.
- Helmets, guards, and pads must meet safety but not give unfair advantages.
9. Restrictions on Running Between Wickets
- Batsmen must run within the pitch and not change direction unfairly.
- They cannot intentionally block the fielder’s throw.
- Short runs (when a batsman doesn’t touch the crease line) can be disallowed.
- In extreme cases, deliberate running short repeatedly may result in penalties.
10. Time Restrictions for a New Batsman
- After a dismissal, a new batsman must take guard within 3 minutes in Tests and 2 minutes in ODIs/T20s.
- Failure to do so results in timed out dismissal (Law 40).
- This prevents time-wasting and keeps the game flowing.
FAQs on Batting Restrictions in Cricket
Q1. What are batting restrictions in cricket?
Batting restrictions are specific rules set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) and tournament organizers that limit how batsmen can play, especially in formats like T20, ODI, and Test cricket. These include fielding restrictions, powerplay overs, shot selection risks, and time regulations.
Q2. Are batting restrictions the same in T20, ODI, and Test cricket?
No. Batting restrictions differ across formats. T20 has strict rules like a 6-over powerplay and penalties for slow over rates. ODIs have a 10-over powerplay and middle-overs restrictions, while Test cricket has the least restrictions, focusing on fair play and time limits.
Q3. What happens if a batsman obstructs the field?
If a batsman deliberately obstructs a fielder or prevents a run-out by handling the ball or blocking intentionally, they can be declared out under the “Obstructing the Field” law.
Q4. Can a batsman stand outside the crease while facing a ball?
Yes, a batsman may stand outside the crease to counter swing or spin, but they risk being stumped if they miss the ball.
Q5. What are the restrictions on using substitute players in batting?
Substitute players are not allowed to bat. They can only field in place of an injured player with the umpire’s permission.
Q6. How many bouncers per over are allowed against batsmen?
In ODIs and T20s, only one bouncer per over is allowed above shoulder height. In Tests, up to two bouncers per over are permitted.
Q7. Can a batsman change their batting stance during delivery?
Yes, batsmen can switch-hit or reverse-sweep, but they must follow fair play rules. Bowlers and fielders can appeal if the batsman gains unfair advantage.
Q8. Are there restrictions on protective equipment for batsmen?
Yes, ICC laws require batsmen to wear standard protective gear (helmet, pads, gloves). Overuse of external equipment like chest guards beyond regulations can be disallowed by umpires.
Q9. What is the rule if both batsmen end up at the same end?
If both batsmen reach the same crease, the one who arrives second is declared out (unless it’s a run-out error by the fielding side).
Q10. What happens if a batsman deliberately wastes time?
Umpires can issue warnings and penalties. If a batsman repeatedly delays the game (e.g., not being ready to face), they can be penalized with five runs awarded to the opposition.
Conclusion
Batting restrictions in cricket are essential to keep the sport balanced, fair, and exciting. They protect the fielding side from unfair play while ensuring batsmen play within the spirit of the game. From powerplay fielding rules to crease-related restrictions, every law impacts how batsmen approach their innings.
By understanding these regulations, both players and fans can enjoy cricket with more clarity. Whether you’re watching an ODI, T20, or Test match, these restrictions will help you notice the finer details that make cricket so fascinating.
