Yes, there is a "dead ball" in cricket.
A "dead ball" signifies a period when the ball is no longer considered in play. During this time, batters cannot score runs, and the fielding side cannot take wickets. Understanding when the ball is dead is crucial for both batters and fielders.
When is the Ball Dead?
According to Law 20.1.2 of the Laws of Cricket, the ball is considered dead when it is clear to the bowler's end umpire that the fielding side and both batters at the wicket have ceased to regard it as in play. The umpire ultimately decides if the ball is dead, regardless of whether it is stationary or not.
Here's a breakdown of situations leading to a dead ball:
- Clear Cessation of Play: The most common scenario is when the ball is hit, fielded, and all players involved acknowledge that no further play is possible. For instance, a fielder cleanly catches the ball, and everyone involved assumes the over is complete.
- Umpire Intervention: The umpire can declare a dead ball in various circumstances, including:
- An injury to a player.
- A disturbance on the field.
- A call of "no ball" or "wide" where the ball travels directly to the wicket-keeper or bowler and is not played at by the batter.
- Boundary Scored: If the ball reaches the boundary for four or six.
- Dismissal: If a batter is out (e.g., bowled, caught, LBW), the ball is dead.
- Intervals: At the scheduled end of an innings or a break (e.g., lunch, tea).
Implications of a Dead Ball
- No Runs Can Be Scored: Once the ball is dead, batters cannot add any further runs to their score.
- No Wickets Can Be Taken: The fielding side cannot dismiss a batter while the ball is dead.
- Play Resumes on Umpire's Signal: Play restarts when the umpire signals "play".
Examples
- A batter hits the ball high in the air, and a fielder catches it. Both batters and the fielding team recognize that the batter is out, and no further play is attempted. The ball is dead.
- A bowler bowls a beamer (a full toss above waist height), and the umpire calls "no ball". As no attempt was made to play the ball and it goes directly to the wicket keeper, the ball is dead.
- A batter is injured and requires medical attention on the field. The umpire may declare a dead ball until the situation is resolved.
In essence, the "dead ball" is a crucial part of cricket's framework, ensuring fair play and providing clear guidelines for when active play ceases.
