Filed under Cricket Rules & Laws

Another art of cricket WAS to defend 90 miles per hour delivery. Not many could do that with authority, to score some runs later. Jaffa's or Corker's bowled by thirsty bowlers deserved an acknowledgment from batsman.

Not any more. I capitalized 'was' in above because those who make cricket rules, have introduced free-hit in one day cricket (ODI), from 1st October 2007. Meaning is simple - once the bowler bowls a foot no-ball - batsman can't be out off the next delivery, except run-out. Of course, the batsman will try to smash that 'next ball' anywhere possible for maximum runs - which in fact is the idea!

It used to be a rule in twenty20 cricket, ever since that shortest format of International cricket started, but onedayers went conventionally as test matches, where foot no ball from bowler fetched one extra run to batting team, plus the runs made off the no-ball minus batsman being given out (if he gets out). Now, the new rule will allow the batsman another free life off the next ball..

Note : Fielding captain can change the field for a free-hit delivery iff the batsmen exchange ends off that no-ball. if same batsman is on strike on whom the no-ball was bowled - fielders stick to the position they were off the previous delivery!

The other rules to be changed in cricket is Power-Play where 1 more fielder will be allowed from PP2 n PP3 onwards. The only good change International cricket council has employed - is making it mandatory for umpires to change the white cricket ball - right at 35th over mark - with an older but cleaner one.

Next change is in field size. The minimum boundary sizes in all international matches should be increased with the square boundary measuring at least 150 yards from one side of the ground to the other (minimum 65 yards on one side. previous total minimum size was 140 yards); and the straight boundaries 70 yards at both ends (previous minimum was 65 yards); maximum boundaries to be used allowing for three yards between boundary rope and advertising boards up to a maximum of 90 yards from the center of the pitch.

Free-hit for bat, if ball oversteps ~ now an odi rule

A to Z of cricket.

What is Leg Before Wicket (lbw) rule in cricket

Fielder restriction law + cricket = What?

How many ways batsman can get out in cricket = 10.

Umpire's decision review system in cricket

Sweep shot, Reverse Sweep and now Switch Hitting in cricket

What is Super over rule in twenty20 cricket match?