Related Articles
Cricket, often celebrated for its strategic depth and adherence to tradition, is governed by a complex set of rules. Among these, the “no ball” call is one of the most recognizable yet intricate aspects of the game. While it is often associated with a bowler overstepping the crease, a closer examination reveals a myriad of situations that can result in this penalty. In this article, we delve into the lesser-known intricacies of the no ball, highlighting the diversity of scenarios that can lead to this umpire’s signal.
Table of content
- 1 1. Front Foot No Ball – Overstepping by the Bowler
- 2 2. No Ball if Ball Bounces Over Batsman’s Head
- 3 3. No Ball for Beamers
- 4 4. No Ball for Chucking
- 5 5. Back Foot No Ball
- 6 6. No Ball for Dangerous Short-pitched Deliveries
- 7 7. Failure to Notify the Mode of Delivery
- 8 8. Underarm Bowling – A Historical Controversy
- 9 9. No Ball if Wicketkeeper Moves Ahead of the Stumps
- 10 10. No Ball for Bowler Touching the Wickets
- 11 11. No Ball for Multiple Bounces
- 12 12. No Ball for Pre-delivery Throw
- 13 13. No Ball for Off-Pitch Deliveries
- 14 14. No Ball for Fielder Interception
- 15 15. No Ball for Stopping Before the Striker
- 16 16. Breach of On-Side Fielding Rules
- 17 17. No Ball for Fielder Encroachment
- 18 Share this:
- 19 Like this:
- 20 Related
1. Front Foot No Ball – Overstepping by the Bowler
Perhaps the most familiar no ball, this occurs when a bowler’s front foot crosses the popping crease during delivery. It is a common mistake, especially among fast bowlers who rely on explosive power and momentum.
2. No Ball if Ball Bounces Over Batsman’s Head
Deliveries that bounce excessively high and pass over the batsman’s head are deemed dangerous and are called no balls. These deliveries pose a risk to the batsman’s safety, warranting immediate action from the umpire.
3. No Ball for Beamers
A “beamer” is a delivery that reaches the batsman above waist height without bouncing. Regardless of intent, such a delivery is unsafe and results in an automatic no ball.
4. No Ball for Chucking
Chucking, or illegal arm flexion during delivery, gives the bowler an unfair advantage. If detected, the umpire signals a no ball, maintaining the spirit of fair play.
5. Back Foot No Ball
Similar to its front-foot counterpart, this occurs when a bowler’s back foot breaches the return crease. It is less common but equally penalized with a no ball.
6. No Ball for Dangerous Short-pitched Deliveries
Repeatedly bowling short-pitched deliveries that threaten the batsman’s safety can lead to a no ball call. This measure ensures the batsman’s protection, even with modern safety equipment.
7. Failure to Notify the Mode of Delivery
Bowlers must inform the umpire of their mode of delivery (e.g., right-arm over the wicket). Failing to do so results in a no ball, reflecting the importance of clear communication in cricket.
8. Underarm Bowling – A Historical Controversy
Underarm bowling, banned after the infamous 1981 incident, is now considered a no ball unless both captains agree to its use before the match.
9. No Ball if Wicketkeeper Moves Ahead of the Stumps
If the wicketkeeper moves in front of the stumps before the ball contacts the bat, body, or equipment, a no ball is called. This rule ensures the batsman has a fair chance.
10. No Ball for Bowler Touching the Wickets
If a bowler dislodges the bails at the non-striker’s end during delivery, the umpire signals a no ball unless the batsman is run out as a result.
11. No Ball for Multiple Bounces
A delivery bouncing more than once before reaching the batsman results in a no ball. Though rare, this situation emphasizes the need for controlled and precise bowling.
12. No Ball for Pre-delivery Throw
If a bowler throws the ball toward the batsman before completing their delivery action, it is deemed a no ball. This is distinct from chucking, focusing on intent rather than action.
13. No Ball for Off-Pitch Deliveries
Deliveries that pitch completely or partially outside the cricket pitch are invalid and result in a no ball.
14. No Ball for Fielder Interception
If a fielder intercepts the ball between the bowler and batsman, the umpire signals a no ball. This ensures uninterrupted play and fair opportunity for the batsman.
15. No Ball for Stopping Before the Striker
If a delivery fails to reach the batsman and stops midway, it is initially called a no ball and then declared a dead ball.
16. Breach of On-Side Fielding Rules
Fielding restrictions limit the number of players behind the popping crease on the leg side. Violating this rule results in a no ball.
17. No Ball for Fielder Encroachment
Fielders who interfere with the ball’s trajectory before it reaches the batsman violate the rules, leading to a no ball call.
