Free Hit in Cricket: All the Rules You Need to Know
Cricket is often described as a gentlemanโs game, but when it comes to modern white-ball formats, the balance of power has shifted heavily in favor of batters. One of the most exciting and game-changing rules that gives batsmen a big advantage is the Free Hit. This unique rule can completely alter the course of a match, punish bowlers for mistakes, and add drama to crucial moments in T20 and ODI cricket.
In this detailed article, weโll explain everything you need to know about the Free Hit rule in cricket, including its origin, when it is awarded, what a batter and bowler can or cannot do, and how this rule has influenced modern-day cricket.
What Is a Free Hit in Cricket?
A Free Hit is a delivery where the batter cannot be dismissed in most ways, except for being run out, obstructing the field, or hitting the ball twice. It is awarded immediately after a no-ball, which occurs when the bowler commits a specific violation while delivering the ball.
This rule was introduced to penalize bowlers for illegal deliveries and to encourage fair play. It also rewards the batting side by giving them a golden opportunity to score freely without the fear of losing a wicket.
When Was the Free Hit Introduced?
The Free Hit rule first came into existence during the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup in South Africa. Initially, it applied only to front-foot no-balls, which occur when a bowlerโs front foot crosses the popping crease. However, in 2015, the International Cricket Council (ICC) expanded the rule to include all types of no-balls, such as waist-high full tosses, back-foot violations, or throwing the ball illegally.
This change made the rule more comprehensive and fair, as all types of no-balls now come with the same punishment โ a Free Hit.
Types of No-Balls That Result in a Free Hit
According to ICC Law 21, a Free Hit is awarded after any type of no-ball. The common reasons for a no-ball include:
- Front-foot no-ball โ When the bowlerโs front foot lands beyond the popping crease.
- Back-foot no-ball โ When the bowlerโs back foot touches or crosses the return crease.
- Waist-high full toss โ When a ball reaches the batsman on the full above waist height.
- Throwing the ball (illegal action) โ When a bowler straightens his arm beyond the legal limit during delivery.
- Wrong bowling side without informing umpires โ If a bowler changes sides without notifying the umpire.
- Too many fielders outside the circle โ In limited-overs cricket, more than the allowed number of fielders outside the 30-yard circle can result in a no-ball.
For all these violations, the batting team not only gets one extra run but also a Free Hit on the following delivery.
Rules for a Free Hit in Cricket
The Free Hit rule comes with specific conditions for both batters and fielders. Letโs break them down clearly:
- Batters cannot be dismissed on a Free Hit in any way except:
- Run out
- Obstructing the field
- Hitting the ball twice
- If the batter is bowled or caught, they are not out, but the ball remains live. The batting side can still run and score byes or leg byes.
- Fielding positions cannot be changed for the Free Hit unless:
- The striker has changed ends.
- The no-ball was due to a fielding restriction breach.
- The wicketkeeperโs position can be adjusted โ for example, moving up or back for safety reasons.
- If another no-ball or wide is bowled on a Free Hit, the next ball will also be a Free Hit until a legal delivery is completed.
These rules ensure that the bowler is penalized fairly while maintaining the spirit of the game.
How Does a Free Hit Affect the Game?
The Free Hit can drastically shift momentum during a cricket match. In T20 cricket, especially, a Free Hit can turn the game in a single ball. Batters usually take full advantage by attempting big shots without worrying about getting caught or bowled out.
For bowlers, however, the Free Hit adds tremendous pressure. They must deliver a legal ball under tight fielding restrictions, often facing an aggressive batter ready to capitalize. A well-executed Free Hit delivery, though, can still restrict runs if bowled strategically โ for instance, using slower balls, yorkers, or wide lines.
Free Hit in T20 Leagues Around the World
The Free Hit rule is now a standard part of white-ball cricket across international and domestic tournaments. Major leagues such as the Indian Premier League (IPL), Big Bash League (BBL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and Pakistan Super League (PSL) all use this rule in their playing conditions.
However, in The Hundred, a 100-ball format introduced in England, there is a slight difference. In this competition, a no-ball results in two runs instead of one, along with the Free Hit โ adding even more incentive for batters and an additional penalty for bowlers.
Examples of Free Hit Impact in Cricket
Over the years, many memorable moments have come from Free Hits. Batsmen like AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, and Rohit Sharma have smashed massive sixes on Free Hits, often changing the course of matches.
On the other hand, clever bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Sunil Narine have developed strategies to minimize damage during Free Hits by delivering accurate yorkers or slow deliveries outside the hitting arc.
The rule not only entertains fans but also tests the mental strength and skill of both batters and bowlers in pressure situations.
Why the Free Hit Rule Is Important
The introduction of the Free Hit rule has made cricket more exciting and fair. It ensures that bowlers are held accountable for illegal deliveries while keeping fans engaged with thrilling moments. The rule rewards precision and discipline while punishing carelessness, making the modern game faster and more dramatic.
Conclusion
The Free Hit rule has become an integral part of modern white-ball cricket. It adds intensity, fairness, and excitement to every match. For batters, itโs a golden chance to score big without fear. For bowlers, itโs a reminder to stay accurate and composed.
As cricket continues to evolve, the Free Hit remains one of the most impactful innovations that balance the game between bat and ball, making every over an unpredictable spectacle for fans around the world.
