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Free Hit in Cricket: Modes of Dismissal Explained

January 06, 2025Sports4655
Free Hit in Cricket: Modes of Dismissal Explained Cricket, a game rich

Free Hit in Cricket: Modes of Dismissal Explained

Cricket, a game rich in tradition and strategic complexity, often presents unique situations that can sometimes baffle even seasoned players and fans. One such situation arises when a free hit is played following a no ball. A free hit is a type of delivery that occurs after a no ball has been bowled. Understanding how a batsman can or cannot be dismissed during a free hit is crucial for cricket enthusiasts and players alike.

What is a Free Hit?

A free hit occurs when the ball is bowled in such a way that it does not go over the stumps or outside the popping crease (as per the laws of cricket). This can happen when the ball hits the stumps or clips them in an illegal manner, results in a no ball, or the ball bounces twice before reaching the striker's end. Once a no ball is called, the next valid delivery becomes a free hit, providing the batsman with extra protection and predictability in their defense.

Can a Batsman be Out on a Free Hit?

According to the laws of cricket, a batsman can indeed be dismissed on a free hit, but only through specific allowed modes of dismissal. These modes are consistent with the general rules of cricket: run out, hit the ball twice, or obstructing the field. Contrary to some popular misconceptions, a batsman cannot be dismissed by being stumped or caught on a free hit.

Legal Dismissals in a Free Hit Situation

Run Out: This is the primary way a batsman can be dismissed on a free hit. If the wicket-keeper or a fielder manages to run the striker out by dislodging the bails while keeping in possession of the ball or immediately with the ball in hand, the batsman is out.

Hit the Ball Twice: This rule, similar to normal cricket, applies during a free hit. Once the free hit is delivered, if the striker attempts to hit the ball a second time before it has passed the batting crease (the crease between the stumps), they will be dismissed.

Obstructing the Field: If the striker intentionally interferes with the fielders' attempts to take a catch, run out, or bowl, they can be dismissed.

Why Stumped is Not an Option

A stumping occurs when a wicket-keeper takes an immediate throw at the wicket with the ball and successfully dislodges the bails without anyone coming in contact with the stumps afterward. Since free hits do not involve the wicket-keeper holding the ball throughout the entire delivery, this mode of dismissal is not applicable. Similarly, being caught is also not possible during a free hit since the ball is not bowled in a conventional manner, eliminating the possibility of a catch.

Conclusion

To summarize, a free hit provides a unique and strategic play in cricket. While a batsman can face unique challenges, such as an increased risk of being run out or having to avoid hitting the ball a second time, certain modes of dismissal remain restricted to fit the specific nature of a free hit. Understanding these nuances is key for both players and spectators.