Free Hit in Cricket

A penalty delivery after a front-foot no ball where the batter cannot be out (except run-out).

What is a Free Hit?

Introduced in limited-overs cricket to further penalise no balls. On the delivery following a front-foot no ball, the batter can only be dismissed by run-out. They cannot be out bowled, caught, LBW, or stumped. Batters use this opportunity to attack freely — knowing the worst that can happen is a dot ball. A free hit in the final over of a T20 with a boundary needed can completely change the match. The delivery is marked by umpires pointing upward.

In play

Over 19, ball 2. Bowler oversteps — no ball. Next ball: free hit. Batter charges and hits it straight to mid-off. Technically a dot ball but he is not out — next ball is another free hit if he misses again? No — the free hit only applies once.

More laws terms

• PowerplayOvers with fielding restrictions — limited fielders outside the 30-yard circle.
• Follow-onWhen the team batting first forces the opposition to bat again immediately after their first innings.
• Dead BallA delivery where play is temporarily suspended and no runs or wickets count.
• Super OverA one-over-per-side tie-breaker used when scores are level at the end of a limited-overs match.
• Hit WicketThe batter is out when they dislodge the bails with their bat, body, or clothing.
• Obstructing the FieldThe batter is out for deliberately blocking, distracting, or interfering with a fielder.