By Arjun 
Cricket is an interesting sporting event; however, it is more than just a game. It also has a huge number of strategies and some very important moments that can change the result of a match. For fans, a free hit in cricket is exciting; it creates interest and excitement amongst all supporters who attend any type of cricket event. For those who are new to cricket, or for those who do not know all the rules, it is beneficial for players and spectators alike to have knowledge about what a free hit is and how that contributes to the spectator experience for all of cricket.
This article will provide information regarding what a free hit is, the rules related to free hits, and also the reasons for the addition of free hits to the game of cricket.
What Is a Free Hit in Cricket?
A free hit in cricket is like a bonus delivery given to the batting team immediately after the bowler bowls an illegal delivery. Most ways to get out (including being bowled out, caught out, and LBW) are not available to the batter during this delivery, meaning the batter will have a very high likelihood of success on this single delivery.
A free hit aims to penalize a bowler who has delivered an illegal delivery and reward the batter with an unaided opportunity to score runs without being exposed to the usual risk of being out. A ‘free hit’ essentially provides the batter with a ‘free opportunity’ to play aggressively and attempt to hit boundaries.
When Does a Free Hit Occur in Cricket?
After a no-ball, the batsman is awarded a free hit in cricket for the next delivery. This rule applies to all forms of limited-overs cricket, including one-day and Twenty20 matches, for any type of no-ball.
Common reasons for a delivery to be called as a no-ball include:
- A bowler overstepping the popping crease (front-foot no-ball)
- Bowler bowling a waist-high ball (beamer)
- Bowler’s action is deemed illegal
- Fielding restrictions have not been followed
Once a no-ball has been called by the umpire, this gives the new delivery a free hit. The umpire indicates a no-ball being called by raising one of their arms in a circular motion above their head.
A key rule to note is that if the free-hit delivery itself becomes a no-ball or wide, the following delivery will continue to be a free-hit as well.
History of Free Hit in Cricket
In 2007, the ICC introduced the free hit in cricket in ODIs as a new way to ensure that bowlers do not throw illegal deliveries (initially for front-foot no-balls) and make for a better experience for viewers by encouraging bowlers to follow the correct delivery protocol and improve entertainment value. Later on, the ICC extended this rule into T-20 and, because of the aggressive style of play within this format, the value of free hits grew significantly. Free hits have become some of the most thrilling aspects of white-ball cricket, often resulting in huge sixes and game-changing performances by players.
Free Hit Rules in Cricket
Knowing how free hits work in cricket is crucial, as they can impact how you play and what tactics you use.
1. Modes of Dismissal during a Free Hit
A big part of what makes free hits exciting is that there are few ways to get out.
Ways You Cannot Be Dismissed
A batter cannot be dismissed by:
- Bowled
- Caught
- LBW (Leg Before Wicket)
- Hit Wicket
This allows batters to be more aggressive when they are batting.
Ways You Can Be Dismissed
There are still ways a batter can get out, including:
- Run Out
- Obstructing the Field
- Hitting the Ball Twice
The above methods of dismissal are possible because these do not credit the bowler with a direct dismissal.
Restrictions on Fielding During a Free Hit
Fielding is also restricted from changing its position during a free hit in cricket.
A fielding team generally won’t be able to adjust its field position if there is a change in the person batting. This will generally preserve the advantage of the team batting.
However, a fielding team is allowed to change its fielding position after:
- The two batters have taken runs
- The strike was changed for whatever reason
What Happens When a Wicket Falls?
When a batter is dismissed on a free hit (bowled or caught), it does not count as a wicket against the batting side. The ball is considered live, and the batting side may continue to score runs from the ball.
For instance:
- If the ball hits the stumps and travels away from them, the batters may run.
- If the ball is caught, depending on the circumstances, they may still attempt to run.
Can a Batter Be Stumped on a Free Hit?
Many cricket fans ask whether a batter can be stumped off a free hit in cricket. Depending on the scenario, the response will vary. If a batter has stepped over their crease and missed the ball, they are usually not able to be stumped, as stumping works the same as other types of dismissals, which are directly connected to the bowler.
That said, if a batter attempts a run on this free ball and does not return to the crease in time, they can be run out. Many fans utilize this distinction to define an out from being just a bowler out, but the key is that most out-disposals are from the bowler.
Read Also: Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium | Sai Sudharsan Cricket Stats
Why Is Free Hit Important in Cricket?
In cricket, the free hit has a significant effect on a match’s momentum.
Advantage for Batters:
- Batters can take a chance and hit without fear.
- When there is a free hit, batters have a better chance of hitting boundaries.
- It reduces the risk of being dismissed.
Disadvantages for Bowlers:
- Bowlers are under increased pressure not to give up runs.
- Bowlers find it difficult to restrict attacking batters.
- They have limited options available for field placements.
A free hit in cricket can change the outcome of a match within seconds.
Conclusion
The free hit in cricket is one of the most exciting rules in the modern game; this rule was created to penalize bowlers for no-balls and allows batters to freely attack while allowing the fans to see fearless stroke play by the batters.
Whether it’s a thrilling moment missed in the IPL or a high-pressure moment in an international match, free hits continue to present themselves as defining moments in the match. Learning the rules of free hits, from the rules of dismissal to the strategies behind free hits, gives cricket fans a greater understanding of and enjoyment of the game.
No matter if you are a beginning cricket fan or a fan since the beginning of cricket, understanding how a free hit in cricket works will make each of those no-balls much more exciting to watch.
Also Read: Under-19 World Cup Winners List | One-Off Tournaments