Corridor of Uncertainty in Cricket

The ideal bowling line — just outside off stump where the batter is unsure whether to play or leave.

What is a Corridor of Uncertainty?

Popularised as a phrase by Geoffrey Boycott, the corridor of uncertainty is an invisible line running roughly 4th-8th stump line away from the batter. It is 'uncertain' because the batter cannot comfortably leave it (it might hit the stumps) nor freely drive it (it's not quite full enough). Forcing a batter to constantly play deliveries in this corridor leads to edges, LBW, and psychological pressure. The foundation of all quality Test match fast bowling.

In play

Bowler pitches 10 consecutive deliveries on the 4th-5th stump line at good length. Batter cannot leave them, cannot drive them. One nips back. LBW. The corridor has done its job.

More bowling terms

• Stock BallA bowler's standard, go-to delivery — their default weapon.
• Conventional SwingThe ball curving through the air using the contrast between the shiny and rough sides.
• Maiden OverAn over in which no runs are scored off the bat — all dot balls.
• Hat-trickA bowler taking three wickets with three consecutive deliveries — one of cricket's rarest feats.
• Economy RateThe average number of runs a bowler concedes per over — the core measure of bowling containment.
• Contrast SwingA form of swing that comes from surface roughness on the ball, not the seam's angle.