Cricket fans love to argue about the game’s complexities—LBW decisions, DRS drama, and the infamous “Mankad.” But what if we told you that even die-hard fans misunderstand basic rules? From baffling no-ball calls to hidden clauses in the MCC rulebook, this list will make you question everything you thought you knew. And #7? It’s so controversial, umpires refuse to talk about it.
1. “The Ball Is Dead After a Batsman Is Out” – WRONG!
Most assume the ball becomes “dead” the moment a batter is dismissed. Not true!
- Reality: The ball remains live until the umpire calls “dead ball.” Players can still run out non-strikers or overthrow for extra runs even after a wicket falls.
- Shocking Example: In a 2019 domestic match, a bowler dismissed the batter but the non-striker was run out during the same play because the ball wasn’t dead.
2. “LBW Requires the Ball to Hit the Stumps Directly” – MYTH!
The “pitching in line” and “impact in line” criteria confuse everyone.
- Truth: Even if the ball misses the stumps, an LBW can be given if:
- The ball pitches in line with the stumps.
- It impacts the pad in line.
- The umpire believes it would’ve hit the stumps.
- DRS Hack: Hawk-Eye’s “Umpire’s Call” margin is just 50% of the ball overlapping the stumps.
3. “You Can’t Be Stumped Off a No-Ball” – HALF-TRUE!
A no-ball negates most dismissals, but there’s a catch.
- Exception: If the bowler oversteps and the batter steps out after playing the shot, they can still be stumped.
- Pro Tip: Keepers often exploit this by whipping off the bails when batters lift their feet casually.
4. “The Ball Is Dead If It Gets Stuck in a Fielder’s Clothing” – NOPE!
If the ball lodges in a helmet, pad, or jersey, chaos ensues.
- Rule: The ball stays live, and batters can run until it’s recovered.
- Infamous Incident: In a 2022 T20 match, the ball got stuck in the keeper’s helmet, and the batters sprinted 7 runs before the fielders noticed.
5. “A Batsman Can’t Be Run Out If They’re in the Crease” – FALSE!
Even if your bat is grounded, you’re not always safe.
- Crease Rule: The bat must be inside the popping crease, not just touching it. If it’s on the line, you’re out.
- DRS Drama: In the 2023 Ashes, Steve Smith survived a run-out because 1mm of his bat hovered above the line.
6. “All No-Balls Are Called Instantly” – NOT ALWAYS!
Front-foot no-balls are checked after dismissals, but there’s a loophole.
- DRS Flaw: If a batter is given out and the bowler overstepped, the decision is overturned. But if the batter isn’t out, the no-ball isn’t reviewed, even if it existed.
- Controversy: In a 2021 ODI, a bowler overstepped 12 times, but only 2 were called because no wickets fell.
7. “Mankading Is Against the Spirit of Cricket” – DEBUNKED!
This is the rule that will blow your mind.
- MCC Rule Change: Since 2022, “Mankading” (running out the non-striker) is no longer listed under “Unfair Play.” It’s 100% legal and even encouraged to prevent batters from stealing ground.
- Why Umpires Hate It: Despite the rule, players like Ashwin face backlash for using it, as critics call it “unsporting.”
8. “You Can’t Score Runs After a Catch” – WRONG!
Think a catch ends the play immediately? Think again.
- Rule: If a fielder catches the ball but steps on the boundary rope, it’s a six + dismissal.
- Unreal Example: In a 2020 Big Bash game, a fielder caught the ball mid-air, threw it up, stepped on the rope, and re-caught it. Result? Six runs + wicket.
9. “The DRS Timer Is Strictly 15 Seconds” – MYTH!
Players have more time than you think.
- Reality: The 15-second countdown starts after the umpire’s decision, but teams often get 25-30 seconds total.
- Loophole: Captains delay signals to consult teammates off-camera, buying extra time.
10. “The Ball Must Bounce to Be a No-Ball for Height” – FALSE!
A beamer (above waist) is a no-ball even if it doesn’t bounce.
- Twist: If the ball pitches and then rises above shoulder height, it’s legal (e.g., bouncers).
- Trap for Pacers: Bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah have to adjust yorkers to avoid accidental beamers.
Conclusion: Why These Rules Matter
Cricket’s rulebook is a labyrinth of quirks, loopholes, and surprises. Understanding these nuances isn’t just for trivia night—it could change how you watch the game. Next time you scream at the TV over an LBW call, remember: even the pros get it wrong.
FAQ Section
Q: Can a bowler Mankad a batter without warning?
A: Yes! The MCC removed the need for warnings in 2022.
Q: Why don’t umpires check every ball for no-balls?
A: Time constraints. Full no-ball checks would slow the game by 30+ minutes.
Q: Is a “dead ball” call reversible?
A: No. Once the umpire calls it, all action stops.
