People often say that the biggest religion in India is cricket.

Watching cricket matches in India is usually a family affair. You will often

find conversations at workplaces or social gatherings about the latest
cricket match. In order to help you be a part of such conversations we
bring to you the basic rules and regulations of cricket and how cricket
scoring works.

Basic Rules of Cricket Game

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1. Cricket rules are not that complicated to understand. Cricket

involves five basic equipment - the ball, the bat,

the wickets, stumps, and the bails. These are the ABCs of

cricket and will help you understand the rest of the rules.

2. Cricket is a team game played between two teams of 11

players each. The 11 players constitute batsmen, bowlers and

a wicket keeper.

3. The match is usually played on a large circular or oval

shaped ground. There is also a smaller inner oval with a 22

yard pitch at the centre. At each end of the pitch is a set of

three wickets with two wooden bails atop them.

4. The match is broken down into separate sections called balls,

which is one delivery of the ball bowled by a bowler to a

batsman. Six of these balls form an over.

5. An innings is made of a specific number of overs or a certain

amount of time. A one day international match consists of 50

overs per innings, a twenty twenty international match

consists of 20 overs per innings whereas a test match is

limited to a certain number of days which is 5 with 90 overs to

be played on each day.

6. During the innings, the batting team will have two batsmen

on the pitch while the 11 players of the opposing team, who

are the bowling team, will have their players at various parts

of the field as fielders. One of them will be bowling the ball

and another one will be a wicket-keeper and will be stationed

behind the wicket.

7. The match will also have two on-field umpires that make the

decisions of the game. There is also a third umpire that

monitors the game through a screen and helps with uncertain

or close decisions.
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Other Cricket Rules And

Regulations
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1. Fielding Restrictions

2. Cricket utilizes specific terms that only experienced players will

understand. Here are some of the most common ones used, and
the meaning behind these words.
3. Bail

Two bails are placed on top of the three wicket stumps. The
bails are made of wood and are used to determine if the wicket
has been broken.

Boundary

The term boundary can be used to describe the perimeter of the

playing ground, as well as the marker that traces the perimeter.
Additionally, boundary can also refer to the scoring of six or four
runs after the ball has been batted past the perimeter.

Bowl-out

A bowl-out occurs when a match ends up in a tie. Five players

from each team will then bowl, and the team with the most
number of hits will be determined the winner.

Brace

A brace refers to two wickets being broken in two consecutive

shots.

Caught
Catching refers to the act of a fielder dismissing the batsman by
catching the ball after it has been batted, before it hits the
ground.

Caught and Bowled

Similar to caught, this refers to the batsman being dismissed by

catching the ball after it has been batted and before it hits the
ground. However, instead of the fielder catching the ball, it is the
bowler who catches it instead.

Caught Behind

Caught behind is similar to caught and bowled, with the

exception of it being the wicket keeper that catches the ball.

Chuck

Chucking occurs when the ball is thrown instead of bowled, and

this is considered an illegal move.

Crease

The crease refers to the lines that surround the wicket. The
breaking crease is aligned to the wicket, while the batting or
popping crease is located around 1.2 meters before the wicket.

Dead Ball

This refers to a state of play where all players are not allowed to
participate. A dead ball can occur in many situations, such as
when the umpire determines that the batsman is not ready,
when the wicket keeper catches the ball and the batsman
refuses to run or when a bowler stops running without delivering
the ball.

Innings

An innings is the period that one team or player is allowed to bat

or bowl. In cricket, an inning usually lasts until 10 out of 11 of the
team’s batsmen are out.
 Run

A run is a unit of scoring in cricket, achieved by the batsman.

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BOUNDARY
The rope around the edge of the pitch
LBW
When a batsman stops the ball from hitting his stumps using his pads and is given out
BEAMER
When a fast bowler bowls a ball to a batsman that reaches him without bouncing
APPEAL
When a bowler shouts towards the umpire because he thinks he has got a batsman out
BAILS
The two small items which sit on top of the stumps and need to be removed for a batsman to be bowled out
DOLLY
A very easy catch taken by a fielder
EDGE (SNICK OR NICK)
When a batsman only just touches the ball with the side of his bat and is caught by the wicket keeper or the slips
 
FIRST CHANGE
The bowler who comes on to replace either of the players who bowled the first and second over of the innings
GOLDEN DUCK
When a batsman is out first ball
ROUGH
A worn section of the pitch just in front and to the side of the stumps
SEAM
The stitching around the middle of a cricket ball
SILLY
If this word is in front of a fielding position it means it is very close to the batsman
SLOWER BALL
When a fast bowler surprises the batsman by deliberately bowling a much slower ball
MAIDEN
When a bowler delivers an entire over without the batsman managing to score a run
YORKER
A delivery that is intended to pitch directly underneath a batsman’s bat or on his toes
1. Hand-Eye Coordination and Batting

Technique
Arguably one of the most important facets of the game of cricket is to possess strong hand-
eye co-ordination and batting technique. By attending an ASC cricket camp, you can expect
to participate in various batting drills. Both in the nets and on the turf.  Our experienced
coaches, design drills to help develop your batting technique! Also, you’ll get the opportunity
to learn firsthand tips and tricks from our experienced coaching panel.  Plus, there are guest
appearances by leading state or Australian players & coaches! 

Camp participants will participate in drills that include front foot batting, cover drives, back
foot plays, centre wicket play, bowling machines, game-day simulations, standstill hand-eye
coordination drills, and running between the wickets! At Australian Sports Camps we strive
to provide an innovative program. One that covers all facets of the game of cricket, and
improve your skills and maximise enjoyment! 

Watch the video below to see some highlights from our Justin Langer Cricket Camp 2016-
2017! 
2. Hand-Eye Coordination with Throwing &
Catching 
Whether you’re a beginner player or an advanced cricketer, one of the fundamentals of the
game you need is fantastic catching technique.  Not to mention, an instinct for where the ball
is going to drop. By attending one of our cricket camps, you can expect to receive dedicated
training periods to develop your child’s catching and hand-eye co-ordination abilities! As

seen in the video above! 

Furthermore, ASC camps cater to young and inexperienced players by grouping participants
of the same ability level and age together.  Also, our specialised skill development drills and
training, designed by industry professionals, are adjusted based on the age and skill set of our
participant groupings! Meaning that kids won’t need to worry about participating in drills that
are too advanced for their current skill set. Therefore, everyone will be able to get the most
out of every drill! And learn at their own pace whilst grasping all the basics necessary to
improve their technique! 
Batting Skills
Bob Woolmer, former head coach of the South African cricket team, wrote in "The
Art and Science of Cricket," that batting has five basic principles: "Watch the ball,
keep your head still on release of the ball, judge length accurately, allow your hands
to lead your body and feet into the correct position and select the correct shot."

Your grip on the bat should feel natural, using the same tension as when you pick
the bat up from the ground. Try to relax at the crease since tension will restrict your
movement and have a negative impact on your technique. Lift the bat up as the
bowler approaches, keep your head still, focus on the ball and commit fully to the
shot you select.

Bowling Skills
Whether you're a fast bowler, medium-paced bowler who swings the ball in the air or
spin bowler who gets the ball to move dramatically off the pitch, bowling has a
foundation of skills that each player must learn. Woolmer wrote that by focusing on
"momentum, balance and timing" within the context of the run-up, the set-up, the
unfold, the delivery and the follow through, bowlers will become consistent and
accurate and will be able to take wickets.

Bowlers should start off slowly and gain speed and momentum as the run-up
progresses into the set-up. Point your left arm -- if you're a right-handed bowler -- in
the direction you want the ball to land. As your action begins to unfold, your bowling
arm will begin a 360-degree rotation. Fix your eyes on the target and place your left
foot on the popping crease to begin the delivery. Your momentum will naturally bring
your arm through to release the ball. Always complete your follow by continuing until
you naturally come to a stop. Do not stop quickly or you'll increase the risk of injury.

Catching Skills
Catching requires five basic skills: Excellent reflexes to get the ball, good hand-eye
coordination, anticipation and alertness to react to the ball quickly, and a still head to
keep the technique together.

As the ball comes toward you, try to use two hands, keep still and keep your eye on
the ball. Point your fingers away from your body to create a large surface area by
spreading your fingers wide. When the ball enters your hands, try to cushion the ball
by moving your hands back toward you. This "give," as Woolmer calls it, will reduce
the chances of the ball bouncing back out of your hands.

Other Fielding Skills

Picking the ball up quickly and efficiently and throwing the ball at the wickets are the
other skills required to be a good fielder.
A quick pickup requires short steps as you approach the ball. Bend your knees,
place your strongest foot alongside the ball and pick it up with one hand.

Woolmer explains that "the ideal throw is the one used in baseball," where you draw
the ball back over the shoulder "so it faces backward" before unwinding the arm and
throwing it straight over the shoulder at the target.

3. Bowling Technique (Fast, Swing, and Spin)

Learning a proper cricket bowling technique can be difficult

for beginners.  So, it’s important to start slowly, get the technique right and then worry about
the accuracy of the bowl later. Our program ensures that every participant is exposed to all
styles of bowling, including fast, swing, and spin techniques!. Your child can expect to
participate in drills that will not only improve their current techniques. But, to truly cement
their understanding of the fundamentals and intricacies of bowling. Our camps are a great
opportunity for your child to practice and discover their preferred bowling style! In addition,
to providing your child with more bowling options come game day! 

So, whether your child wants to learn how to fast bowl like Brett Lee or how to spin bowl
like Shane Warne! ASC cricket camp is a great place to gain exposure in all styles of
bowling!

4.  Fielding 
Fielding in cricket consists of several roles that cricket players must perform during a game.
Including running, catching, collecting, and returning a ball that has been hit by the batsman.
By attending one of our cricket camps, your child can expect to be involved in match-play
sessions. As well as, various fitness drills! These drills will develop hand-eye coordination,
throwing, gathering, fielding defensive tactics, teamwork, and agility! All the skills that are
imperative for a good fieldsman!

Furthermore, our fitness tests will help measure multiple aspects of fitness.  Such as, agility,
vertical leap, reaction time, and aerobic power! Which are also important for fielding! These
results are presented in a personalised report and feedback card for each participant! And,
will provide a detailed outlook of your child’s performance and possible areas for
improvement!

5. Wicket-keeping

At Australian Sports Camps, we believe

that practising all aspects of a sport is the first step to having a long and fun sporting career.
Although there’s usually only one wicket-keeper during a game of cricket, it’s important that
all cricketers get exposure to the technical aspects of wicket-keeping! As, this gives players a
greater understanding in all areas of the sport and really enhances your skill set!. For
example, wicket-keeping is a great way to enhance your perception of how the ball travels
down the pitch, both at fast speeds and slower swing-orientated deliveries. Not to mention
how your hand-eye co-ordination and catching abilities will sharpen the longer you practice
behind the wickets!

By attending our cricket camps, all participants can expect to get the opportunity to practice
wicket-keeping! With all necessary age-specific kits and gear provided! There’s just no
telling how much you can improve your skill set at an ASC camp! So, contact us on 1300 914
368 to find out which camp is for you! 

We do hope that you enjoyed this article! If your child has a passion for cricket and wants to
practice more advanced and structured cricket drills, sign them up for one of Australian
Sports Camps 3-day Cricket Camps! Additionally, if you have any questions regarding our
camps and for all other enquiries, please contact us on 1300 914 368! We look forward to
seeing you at ASC cricket camp this coming school holidays! 
5.
  Fielding has its own set of rules for all cricket forms. To

attain a fair game for both the teams and avoid any malicious

approach or strategy.

 Bowling team has players as bowler, wicket-keeper and 9

fielders spread across the field and their positions may vary

with passing overs. The fielding positions are such that only

two fielders are set in the quadrant between square leg and

long stop fielding positions, where no fielder should be on the

pitch until the batsman play the ball.

There are separate cricket restrictions and rules for men’s and women’s
cricket. In 2015, the recent powerplay rules removed batting powerplay
and allow 5 fielders outside circle in last 10 overs. Powerplay rules are as
follows:

 During the first 10 overs of an innings a maximum of 2

fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

 Between overs 11 and 40 a maximum of 4 fielders are

allowed outside the 30-yard circle.

 In the final 10 overs (41–50) a maximum of 5 fielders will be

allowed to field outside the 30-yard circle.

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 2. Penalty Balls

There are specifically three types of penalty balls in cricket:

 No Ball: No ball credit one run to the batting team, which

happens when bowler crosses the crease with front-foot while

bowling or if bowler’s back foot lands outside crease (return-

crease). These runs are tallied separately from batsman score

and credited to the team's score. No ball also counts if ball

 doesn't hit the pitch and is high above the waist of stricker.

Noball is followed by “a free-hit” to batsman where another

ball is served, during free-hit the batsman can only be

declared out via a runout or stumping. By latest rules No-balls

are scored against the bowler to achieve accuracy in bowling

statistics.

 Dead Ball: It happens when the ball bounce twice or more

before reaching batsman’s crease. This doesn’t provide any

free hit or extra run to the batting team but an extra ball will

be served.

 Wide ball: Wide ball too awards batting team with a run.

These runs by wide ball tallied separately from individual

batsman score and credited to the team's score. A wide ball

falls when it is served far from batsman or above the head,

provided no part of batsman body or bat (and other

equipment) touches the ball. It also avail an opportunity for

batsman to play an extra ball which is served in replacement

to the wide ball. By latest rules Wide-balls are scored against

the bowler to achieve accuracy in bowling statistics.

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3. Bye and leg bye in cricket

 Bye in cricket is either scored from no-ball or any legitimate

delivery. When a ball doesn’t struck by the bat and not

touches any body part of batsman, batsman may choose to run

and score. If such ball is served and hit the boundary, it

 credits a four to the team. These byes are also marked

separately from batsman individual score.

 Leg bye in cricket is when a ball served and hits any body

part of the batsman showing his intend to play the ball, he can

run and score. If such a ball reaches boundary, a four is scored

in batting team. Such runs when scored are known as leg byes.

Cricket Scoring for Dummies

Now that we have looked at some cricket rules and regulations, let us have
a look at how you score in cricket and how teams win matches. The
batsmen try to score ‘runs’. This is done by hitting the ball and running to
the other end of the pitch before the fielder catches the ball and throws it
back. This constitutes as one run.

 Runs can also be scored by hitting the ball over the

boundary. Four runs are scored if the ball goes past the

boundary after hitting the ground inside the boundary and six

runs are scored if the ball soars past the boundary without

hitting the ground inside the boundary even once.

  Other ways to score runs are when the bowler bowls any ball

that isn’t within the rules of bowling in which case the batting

team gets extra runs.

 A game is won depending on which team scores the highest

runs. Each team tries to restrict the number of runs the other

team scores by getting the players ‘out’. This is called a

wicket.

Wondering how many ways can a batsman lose this wicket? There are
several ways a batsman can get out but the most common ones are:

 Catch – when the bowler, wicket keeper or any fielder

catches a ball hit by the batsman within the boundary limits.

 Bowled – When a ball that has been bowled hits the wicket.

 Leg Before Wicket – This happens if the ball hits the

batsman’s leg or any body part in line of stumps. If there is a

likelihood that the ball might have hit the wicket were it not

for the batsman’s body then it is considered an out.

 Stumped – This happens when the wicket keeper collects the

ball and knocks off the bails before the batsman gets the bat

or any part of him grounded behind the batting crease.

  Runout – If a batsman fails to make it past the batting crease

before the ball hits the wicket then it is runout.

While these are the most common ways in which a batsman lose his
wicket, there are several other like hit wicket etc.

Now that you have understood the basic cricket rules and regulations and
how cricket scoring works, you can go ahead and start watching matches
and discussing with your friends.

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