In cricket, free hits add an exciting and unpredictable twist to the game. They often become the deciding factor in a close match, making it even more thrilling for players and fans alike. Here, we are sharing everything about free hit in cricket.
What is a Free Hit in Cricket?
A free hit is a special opportunity given to the batsman to face the next delivery without the risk of getting out through any mode of dismissal, except for a run-out. This chance is awarded to the batsman only when the bowler delivers a no-ball by overstepping the popping crease. It adds excitement to the game and serves as a punishment for the bowler’s mistake. The batsman, on the other hand, gets a golden opportunity to make the most out of the free hit ball.
When does the umpire signal a free hit?
The umpire signals a free hit when the bowler delivers a no-ball. A no-ball is declared when the bowler oversteps the popping crease, meaning their front foot lands beyond the designated line. The umpire raises their arm horizontally to indicate a no-ball, and immediately after the signal, they also make a circular motion with their arm to indicate the commencement of a free hit. The next delivery will be a free hit, providing the batsman with an opportunity to score runs without the risk of dismissal (except for run-out).
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When was free hit used for the first time?
The concept of a free hit was first introduced in cricket during the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 tournament held in South Africa in 2007. The International Cricket Council (ICC) implemented this rule to add excitement and encourage aggressive play in limited-overs formats like Twenty20 (T20) and One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
Understand Free hit rules
The rules governing a free hit in cricket are as follows:
- Awarded for No-Ball: A free hit is awarded to the batsman when the bowler delivers a no-ball by overstepping the popping crease.
- Change of Batsman: The batsman who faced the delivery for the no-ball is the one eligible to face the free hit. If there’s a change of strike due to a run taken off the no-ball, the incoming batsman will face the free hit.
- Fielding Restrictions: The fielding restrictions for the free hit delivery remain the same as they were for the original delivery. The fielding captain cannot change the field placements.
- No Wicket-taking Dismissals: The batsman cannot be dismissed through any mode except for a run-out during the free hit delivery. Bowlers cannot claim wickets through catches, bowled, lbw, or any other means.
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Fielding restrictions during free hit
During a free hit, the fielding restrictions remain the same as they were for the original delivery. Fielding restrictions are typically in place during the limited-overs formats (T20s and ODIs) of cricket, and they are designed to encourage aggressive batting and high-scoring matches. The number of fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle is limited, making it easier for batsmen to find gaps and score boundaries.
Advantages for batsmen in a free hit
The free hit offers several advantages to batsmen:
- No Risk of Dismissal: The batsman cannot be dismissed through conventional modes of dismissal (like catches, bowled, lbw) during a free hit, except for a run-out. This eliminates the fear of getting out and allows the batsman to play more aggressively.
- Opportunity to Score Freely: With no fear of dismissal, batsmen can take more risks and attempt to score boundaries or even a maximum without worrying about the consequences.
- Psychological Advantage: The free hit can have a psychological impact on both the batsman and the bowler. Batsmen often use this opportunity to unsettle the bowler and gain an advantage in the ongoing battle.
- Redemption Chance: If a batsman faced a dot ball or played a poor shot in the preceding delivery (which was a no-ball), the free hit provides them with a chance to redeem themselves and make amends.
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Virat Kohli free hit controversy against Pakistan
In an India vs. Pakistan match during the ICC World Twenty20 2016, there was a controversial incident involving Indian batsman Virat Kohli and a free hit. In the crucial encounter, Pakistan’s Wahab Riaz bowled a no-ball, and Kohli was awarded a free hit. Riaz bowled a fiery delivery, and Kohli attempted a hook shot but was caught by a fielder. However, upon close inspection, it was discovered that Riaz had overstepped the crease again, and thus it should have been called a no-ball again, giving Kohli another free hit. The controversy arose as the umpire failed to signal a no-ball, leading to debates about the accuracy of on-field decisions and technology’s role in such instances.
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FAQ About Free Hit in Cricket
Is there a free hit in Test cricket?
No, the free hit rule is not applicable in Test cricket. It is limited to the limited-overs formats like T20s and ODIs. Test cricket follows traditional rules, and no free hit is awarded for no-balls.
What happens when you are bowled on a free hit?
If a batsman gets bowled on a free hit delivery, they are not considered out. A bowled dismissal is not valid during a free hit, and the batsman continues their innings. However, if the batsman is bowled on a legitimate delivery (not a no-ball or a free hit), they will be considered out, and the usual rules of dismissal apply.
Can you run when bowled on a free hit?
Yes, batsmen can attempt to take runs even if they get bowled on a free hit delivery. As mentioned earlier, a batsman cannot be dismissed through a bowled during a free hit, but they can still score runs. The ball remains live, and if the batsman manages to hit the ball and take runs before it reaches the boundary or is fielded by the opposition, the runs count on the scoreboard.