Summary
After a no-ball in limited-overs cricket, the next delivery is a free hit where the batsman cannot be dismissed by the bowler (caught, bowled, LBW, stumped, or hit wicket).
Full Explanation
The free hit rule was introduced in T20 Internationals in 2007 and extended to ODIs in 2008. Initially, free hits only applied to front-foot no-balls, but since 2015, all no-balls result in a free hit.
On a free hit delivery, the batsman can only be dismissed by run-out, obstructing the field, handling the ball, or hitting the ball twice. The fielding side cannot change their field from the previous delivery unless there's been a change of striker.
The rule was designed to further penalize illegal deliveries and add excitement to limited-overs cricket. It has led to some dramatic moments, with batsmen attempting maximum shots knowing they can't be bowled or caught.
Key Points
- •Introduced in T20Is in 2007, extended to ODIs in 2008
- •Batsman cannot be bowled, caught, LBW, stumped, or hit wicket
- •Can only be dismissed via run-out or obstructing the field
- •Field cannot change from the previous delivery
- •Applies after all no-balls since 2015 (originally only front-foot)
- •Not applicable in Test cricket
Notable Controversies
- •Debate about whether free hits should be introduced in Test cricket
- •Some feel free hits make limited-overs cricket too batsman-friendly
- •Fielding restrictions on free hit deliveries have caused confusion
Related Rules
No-Ball Rules
A delivery is a no-ball if the bowler oversteps the crease, bowls a dangerous full toss, exceeds bouncer limits, or breaks other bowling laws. A no-ball awards one extra run and a free hit in limited-overs cricket.
Bouncer / Short-Pitched Bowling Rules
Limits on the number of short-pitched deliveries (bouncers) a bowler can bowl per over — 2 in Tests, 1 in ODIs/T20Is. Introduced after the Bodyline era led to safety concerns.