10 Rules of Cricket in Real Play – Complete Guide for Beginners

10 Rules of Cricket is one of the most popular sports in the world, enjoyed by millions of fans and players alike. Whether you are a beginner learning the basics or someone looking to understand the essential guidelines, knowing the 10 rules of cricket is crucial. These rules govern how the game is played and ensure fairness for both teams. In this detailed article, we will explain the fundamental rules of cricket, their importance, and how they apply during real play.

Rules of Cricket

10 Rules of Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of 11 players each. The game is regulated by the Laws of Cricket, set by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Understanding the 10 rules of cricket will help you appreciate the sport better and play it correctly.

1. The Objective of the Game

The primary goal of 10 Rules of Cricket is simple: score more runs than the opposing team. The batting side attempts to accumulate runs, while the bowling and fielding team aims to dismiss the batters and restrict their score.

2. Number of Players and Team Formation

According to the official rules, a cricket match is played between two teams of 11 players each. Every team has a mix of batters, bowlers, all-rounders, and a wicketkeeper. Having substitutes is allowed for fielding in case of injury, but they cannot bat or bowl.

3. The Toss and Innings

Before the game begins, a coin toss decides which team bats or bowls first. The winner of the toss often chooses to bat if the pitch and weather conditions favor batting. Each team gets one or two innings depending on the match format (Test, ODI, or T20).

4. Structure of the Pitch and Field

A 10 Rules of Cricketpitch measures 22 yards (20.12 meters) in length and is located in the center of the field. Two sets of stumps (wickets) are placed at both ends. The playing area includes a boundary, which defines the edge of the field. Runs are scored by running between the wickets or hitting the ball to or beyond the boundary.

Runs can be scored in several ways:

  • Running between wickets: Batters run after hitting the ball.
  • Boundary Four: When the ball crosses the boundary after touching the ground.
  • Boundary Six: When the ball crosses the boundary without touching the ground.
  • Extras: Runs from no-balls, wides, leg-byes, and byes.

The team with the highest runs at the end of the game wins.

One of the essential parts of the 10 rules of cricket is understanding how a batter can be dismissed. Common dismissals include:

  • Bowled: The ball hits the stumps.
  • Caught: The ball is caught before touching the ground.
  • Leg Before Wicket (LBW): Batter is out if the ball hits the leg in line with the stumps.
  • Run Out: Batter is out if the fielding team breaks the stumps before they reach the crease.
  • Stumped: Wicketkeeper removes bails when the batter is out of their crease.

7. Bowling Rules

The bowler delivers the ball overarm, with a straight arm, toward the batter. The bowling team aims to dismiss batters within a limited number of overs.

  • In T20 matches, each team bowls 20 overs.
  • In ODIs, each side bowls 50 overs.
  • In Test matches, there is no fixed limit on overs.

8. Fielding Restrictions

Fielding plays a vital role in 10 Rules of Cricket. There are restrictions on where fielders can stand during certain overs:

  • Powerplay Overs: Limited fielders outside the inner circle.
  • No more than two fielders behind square on the leg side during delivery.

These rules prevent defensive play and encourage competitive 10 Rules of Cricket.

9. Over and Ball Counting

An over consists of six legal deliveries bowled by the same bowler. After one over, a different bowler must take over from the opposite end. Teams rotate bowlers strategically to manage stamina and conditions.

10. Winning Conditions

The team with the most runs at the end of the match wins. If both teams score the same number of runs, the game may end in a tie. In T20 or ODI formats, a Super Over may decide the winner in case of a tie.

  • Follow the Spirit of the Game: Respect umpires’ decisions and avoid unfair play.

  • Use Approved Equipment: Bats, balls, and protective gear must comply with standards.

  • Time Limits: Batters and bowlers should be ready within stipulated time frames to avoid penalties.

Importance of Learning These Rules

Knowing the 10 rules of cricket helps players avoid mistakes, ensures fair play, and enhances enjoyment of the game. Whether you’re playing professionally or casually, these basics are your foundation.

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