Glossary of cricket terms

{{Short description|none}} {{More citations needed|date=January 2026}} {{dynamic list}} {{Use British English|date=February 2013}} {{Use dmy dates|date=August 2021}} [[File:Cricket terminology - Punch cartoon - Project Gutenberg eText 17596.png|thumb|''Young Cricketer''. "Yes, I cocked one off the splice in the gully and the blighter gathered it."<br /> ''Father''. "Yes, but how did you get out? Were you caught, stumped or bowled, or what?"<br />Cartoon from ''Punch'', 21 July 1920.]]

This is a general glossary of the terminology used in the sport of cricket. Where words in a sentence are also defined elsewhere in this article, they appear in italics. Certain aspects of cricket terminology are explained in more detail in cricket statistics and the naming of fielding positions is explained at fielding (cricket).

Cricket is known for its rich terminology.<ref name=cric>{{cite news|url=http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/239756.html |title=A glossary of cricket terms|work=ESPNcricinfo|access-date=13 May 2008}}</ref><ref name=ecb>[http://static.ecb.co.uk/files/teacher-task-cards-glossary-of-cricket-terms-817.pdf ''Glossary of cricket terms''.] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080528033119/http://static.ecb.co.uk/files/teacher-task-cards-glossary-of-cricket-terms-817.pdf |date=28 May 2008 }} England Cricket Board. Retrieved 13 May 2008.</ref><ref name=bbc>[https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/skills/6100344.stm "Cricket Academy – Glossary".] BBC News. Retrieved 13 May 2008.</ref> Some terms are often thought to be arcane and humorous by those not familiar with the game.<ref name=e1>Eastaway, p. 1.</ref> __NOTOC__ {{compact ToC|notesfirst=yes|refs=yes}}

==A== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Abandoned |content=Abandoned}} {{defn|defn= The ''result'' if a ''match'' is called off without any play, through no fault of either team. Typically this is due to adverse weather or safety issues. Depending on the ''regulations'' of the competition, the abandoned match might be rescheduled for a ''reserve day'', moved to a different ''ground'', or counted as a ''draw''. A match which is called off part-way through instead uses a ''rain rule'' or is recorded as ''no result''.}}

{{term|term= Across the line}} {{defn|defn= A ''shot'' which is played with the ''bat'' moving lateral to the direction of motion of the ''ball''. Used when the ''batter'' is aiming ''square'' or behind square, but requires excellent ''timing''. Considered risky, as mistiming the shot can result in a ''leading edge'', being ''strangled'', or missing the ball entirely and being ''out'' ''bowled'' or ''leg before wicket''.{{citation needed|date=February 2020}}}}

{{term|term= Action}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|bowling action}}''<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Agricultural shot}} {{defn|defn= A powerful ''slog'' shot ''across the line'' (resembling a scything motion), played with little technique or ''footwork'', particularly one that damages the ''pitch'' with the ''bat''. May result in the ball going to ''cow corner''.<ref>Booth, pp. 2–3</ref><ref name=et_terms>{{cite news |last1=Majid |first1=Abdul |title=Did you know these sports terms? |url=https://tribune.com.pk/story/871986/did-you-know-these-sports-terms/ |access-date=18 February 2020 |work=The Express Tribune |date=29 April 2015}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Air}} {{defn|defn= A ''delivery'' by a ''spin bowler'' on a higher trajectory than usual, typically phrased as 'giving it some air'. The term ''flight'' is a near synonym.<ref name=wisden_dict/> Can be combined with ''top spin'' or ''back spin'' to deceive the batter on the ''length'' of the delivery, or with ''off spin'' or ''leg spin'' to give the ball more time to ''drift''.}}

{{term|term= All out}} {{defn|defn= The ''end of an innings'' due to the batting side running out of ''wickets'', usually because ten of the eleven ''batters'' have been ''dismissed''. It also applies if a total of ten players (in any combination) have ''retired'', are absent from the ''ground'', or have been dismissed, leaving only one available batter remaining. The term is a slight misnomer, as there is always one batter left ''not out''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= All-rounder |content= All-rounder }} {{defn|defn=Traditionally, a player adept at both ''batting'' and ''bowling''.<ref name=barclays>''Barclays World of Cricket – 2nd Edition'', 1980, Collins Publishers, {{ISBN|0-00-216349-7}}, pp 636–643.</ref> Some recent sources regard a ''wicket-keeper/batter'' as another type of all-rounder, but this usage is not universal.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Amateur}} {{defn|no=1|A cricketer who plays for pleasure, not pay. A non-professional.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}} {{defn|no=2|A former official distinction between players of differing social class, important in 18th and 19th century England. Amateurs (also known as ''gentlemen'') were upper class, had usually been to private school or Oxbridge, and could claim expenses but not receive any other payment. Professionals (also known as ''players'') were working class, paid wages, and relied on cricket as their primary source of income. Most ''county cricket'' teams consisted of a mix of amateurs and professionals; the ''captain'' was always an amateur. The annual Gentlemen vs Players match pitched the two classes against each other. The distinction became obsolete in the early 20th century and was finally abolished in 1962.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Analysis}} {{defn|defn=See ''{{gli|bowling analysis}}''<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Anchor}} {{defn|defn= A ''batter'' who remains ''in'' for a long time, scoring at a moderate ''strike rate'' whilst preserving their ''wicket'' by avoiding risky ''shots''. A less defensive and more flexible version of a ''blocker''. ''Top-'' or ''middle-order'' batters may adopt an anchor role if the other batters experience a ''batting collapse''.<ref>Booth, pp. 10–11</ref>}}

[[File:Mashrafe Mortaza 01.jpg|thumb|right|upright|''Bowler'' Mashrafe Mortaza ''appeals'' for a ''wicket'' during the 2015 Cricket World Cup.]] {{term|term= Appeal |content= Appeal }} {{defn|defn= A ''bowler'' or ''fielder'' asking the ''umpire'' to ''dismiss'' the ''batter'', usually by shouting 'howzat' (how's that?). Variations include 'howzee' (how's he?), or simply turning to the umpire and cheering.<ref name=barclays/> The umpire cannot give a batter ''out'' unless the fielding side appeals, even if the criteria for a dismissal have otherwise been met.<ref name=wisden_dict/> Batters who are obviously out (e.g. ''bowled'' or indisputably ''caught'') will normally ''walk'' from the field without waiting for an appeal.}}

{{term|term= Approach}} {{defn|no=1|defn= The motion of the bowler before bowling the ball; also known as the run-up.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}} {{defn|no=2|defn= The ground a bowler runs on during their run up; e.g.: "Play was delayed because the bowler's approaches were slippery."{{Citation needed|date=May 2008}} }}

{{term|term= Arm ball |content= Arm ball }} {{defn|defn= A ''variation'' bowled by a ''finger spinner'', which appears to be their ''stock ball'' but does not ''spin''. Such a ''delivery'' does not ''turn'' when bouncing but travels straight on i.e. following the ''line'' of the bowler's arm, hence the name. An arm ball might also ''swing''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Around the wicket}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''round the wicket''')}} A right-handed ''bowler'' passing to the right of the non-striker's stumps in their run-up, and vice versa for a left-handed ''bowler''. The opposite of ''over the wicket''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Ashes, The |content= The Ashes {{anchor|Ashes, The}} }} {{defn|defn= The trophy for the England v Australia ''Test match'' series.<ref name=wisden_dict/> The Ashes originated as a result of a satirical obituary published in a British newspaper, ''The Sporting Times'', in 1882 after a match at The Oval in which Australia beat England on an English ground for the first time. The obituary stated that English cricket had died, and the body would be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia. The English press dubbed the next English tour to Australia (1882–83) as the quest to regain The Ashes. During that tour a small terracotta urn was presented to England captain Ivo Bligh by a group of Melbourne women. The urn is reputed to contain the ashes of one or two ''bails''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Asking rate}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|required run rate}}''}}

{{term|term= Attacking field}} {{defn|defn= A fielding configuration in which more fielders are close in to the ''pitch'' so as to take ''catches'' more readily, at the risk of allowing more runs to be scored.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Attacking shot}} {{defn|defn= An aggressive or strong hit by the batter designed to score runs.<ref name=e119>Eastaway, p. 119.</ref>}}

{{term|term= Audi |content= Audi }} {{defn|defn=Two consecutive ''pairs'', or four consecutive ''ducks''. The term alludes to Audi, a German car manufacturer, whose logo is four linked rings.<ref name="espn 2001-05-30">{{cite web |last1=Fleming |first1=Stephen |author1-link=Stephen Fleming |title=The sort of Audi that nobody wants |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/the-sort-of-audi-that-nobody-wants-106696 |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=20 November 2021 |date=30 May 2001}}</ref><ref name="espn 2012-05-28">{{cite web |last1=Lynch |first1=Steven |title=Which end of the bat do I hold? Batsmen who went through spells of wretched form |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/espncricinfo-xi-batsmen-who-went-through-spells-of-poor-form-566356 |website=ESPNcricinfo |access-date=20 November 2021 |date=28 May 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite podcast |host=Mann, Simon |author-link=Simon Mann |date=12 September 2024 |title=In at the deep end – the psychology of test cricket |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0jq0660 |website=Test Match Special |location=London |publisher=BBC |access-date=12 September 2024}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Average}} {{defn|no=1|defn= see ''{{gli|batting average}}''}} {{defn|no=2|defn= see ''{{gli|bowling average}}''}}

{{term|term= Away swing}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|outswing}}''<ref name=e119/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==B== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Back foot}} {{defn|no=1|defn= When ''batting'', the foot that is closest to the ''stumps''. For a ''right-hand'' batter's ''stance'', the back foot is the right foot; for a left-hand batter it is the left foot.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}} {{defn|no=2|defn= When ''bowling'', the foot which contacts the ground before the ''front foot'' i.e. the back foot is the second contact before the ball is released. Usually the back foot is also the ''bowling foot'', unless the bowler's ''action'' is off the ''wrong foot''.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= Back foot contact |content= Back foot contact }} {{defn|defn= The point in a ''bowling action'' when the ''back foot'' lands on the ground, just before ''release'' of the ball.}}

{{term|term= Back foot shot}} {{defn|defn= A ''shot'' played with the ''batter's'' weight on their ''back foot''.<ref name=barclays/> Most commonly used when aiming behind ''square''.}}

{{term|term= Back spin}} {{defn|defn= (Also ''under-spin''.) A ''delivery'' with a backward spin, so that after pitching the ball immediately slows down, or bounces lower and skids on to the ''batter''.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Backing up}} {{defn|no=1|defn= The ''non-striking'' ''batter'' leaving their crease during the ''bowler's'' ''action'', before the ''ball'' is ''released''. This shortens the distance the non-striker will need to cover to score a ''run'', if the ''striker'' completes a ''shot''. Backing up too far or too early risks a ''run out'', either by one of the ''fielders'', or by the ''bowler'' in a ''mankad''.<ref name=e119/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= A ''fielder'' placing themselves on the far side of the ''wicket'' from a team-mate who is throwing the ''ball'' at the ''stumps'' to attempt a ''run out''. The fielder who is backing up can then recover the ball if the throw misses the stumps, thereby preventing ''overthrows''.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= backlift |content= Backlift }} {{defn|defn= Lifting the bat in preparation to hitting the ball.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= Badger}} {{defn|defn= A particularly enthusiastic cricketer, someone with an extreme love of the game.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.rubiconcricket.co.uk/crictionary/explore/badger |title=Badger &#124; Rubicon Cricket |access-date=27 July 2019 |archive-date=27 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190727144520/https://www.rubiconcricket.co.uk/crictionary/explore/badger }}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Bad light}} {{defn|defn= In a match played during the day, "bad light" refers to the umpires taking the players from the field because the ambient light has dimmed to the point that the ball has become difficult to see. Done for both fairness and the safety of the batters.<ref name="light">{{cite web|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/mcc/content/story/479327.html|title=Umpires won't offer light to batsmen|work=ESPNcricinfo|date= 30 September 2010}}</ref> Often shortened simply to ''light''. See also ''{{gli|offer the light}}''.}}

{{term|term= Baggy green |content= Baggy green }} {{defn|defn= A cricket cap of myrtle green colour, which has been worn by Australian Test cricketers since around 1900. The cap is a symbol of Australian cricket, and the term is strongly associated with national cricketing pride.}}

{{term|term= Bail |content= Bail }} {{defn|defn= One of the two small pieces of wood that lie on top of the ''stumps'' to form the ''wicket''.<ref name=ecb/>}}

thumb|right|A worn ''ball'' {{term|term= Ball |content= Ball }} {{defn|no=1|defn= The spherical object which the ''bowler'' propels towards the ''batter'', who may attempt to hit it with the ''bat''. Constructed of leather stitched around a cork core. A ''red ball'' is used in ''timed matches'' (or a ''pink ball'' for ''day/night cricket''), whilst a ''white ball'' is used in ''limited overs'' cricket.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A single ''delivery''. Each ''over'' contains six (legal) balls.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Ball tampering |content= Ball tampering}} {{defn|defn= Illegally modifying the condition of the ''ball'', usually by a ''fielder'' to facilitate ''swing bowling''. Ball tampering is a form of cheating, so accusations are often controversial.}}

{{term|term= Ball tracking}} {{defn|defn= A computer vision system that determines the location of the ''ball'', tracks its motion, and predicts its future trajectory. Used by the ''third umpire'' in the ''decision review system'' to assess ''LBW'' appeals, and by coaches or commentators to analyse player performances.<ref name=cric/> Common brands include Hawk-Eye and Eagle-Eye,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Briggs |first1=Simon |title=The Ashes 2010: Hawk-Eye founder claims rival system is not being so eagle-eyed |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/cricket/international/theashes/8190200/The-Ashes-2010-Hawk-Eye-founder-claims-rival-system-is-not-being-so-eagle-eyed.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/cricket/international/theashes/8190200/The-Ashes-2010-Hawk-Eye-founder-claims-rival-system-is-not-being-so-eagle-eyed.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=7 August 2019 |date=9 December 2010| quote=Virtual Eye – or 'Eagle Eye', as it is known in Australia – has been developed by a New Zealand-based company, Animation Research Ltd, and has provided ball-tracking services for series in Australia, New Zealand and Zimbabwe.}}{{cbignore}}</ref> which are sometimes used as genericised trademarks for the concept.}}

{{term|term= Bang (it) in}} {{defn|defn= To bowl a ''delivery'' on a shorter ''length'' with additional speed and force. The bowler is said to be "bending their back" when banging it in.}}

thumb|right|upright=0.7|A typical cricket bat, showing the front and back with the main parts labelled {{term|term= Bat |content= Bat }} {{defn|defn= The wooden implement which the ''batter'' uses to hit the ball. Usually constructed in two pieces, the rectangular-sectioned ''blade'' and cylindrical ''handle'', which are joined at the ''splice''.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= Bat-pad}} {{defn|defn= A fielder placed close to the batter on the leg side to catch the ball if it hits the bat and pad (in either order), and rises to a catchable height. Also a defence against being given out ''lbw'', that the ball may have hit the bat first, however indiscernible.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Batter |content= Batter}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|({{abbr|m.|masculine}} '''batsman''', {{abbr|f.|feminine}} '''batswoman''', or '''batting player''' for either)}} A player on the batting side, or one of the two members of the batting side who are currently at the crease, or (in the context of a player's career) a player whose speciality is batting.<ref name=cric/> The term 'batsman' was used for most of the game's history, regardless of the player's gender, but the gender neutral term 'batter' began to be adopted in the 2010s and was made official in the {{gli|Laws}} in 2021.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hoult |first1=Nick |title=MCC to publish gender-neutral redraft of the laws of cricket – but 'batter' keeps its place |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2017/03/06/mcc-publish-gender-neutral-redraft-laws-cricket-batsman-keeps/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2017/03/06/mcc-publish-gender-neutral-redraft-laws-cricket-batsman-keeps/ |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |access-date=30 January 2020 |work=The Telegraph |date=6 March 2017}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>[https://www.lords.org/lords/news-stories/mcc-to-use-the-term-batters-throughout-the-laws-of "MCC to Use the Term "Batters" throughout the Laws of Cricket".] Lord's. Retrieved 7 July 2023.</ref>}}

{{term|term= Batting |content= Batting }} {{defn|defn= The act and skill of defending one's ''wicket'' and scoring ''runs''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Batting average |content= Batting average }} {{defn|defn= The average number of ''runs'' scored per ''innings'' by a ''batter'', calculated by dividing the batter's total runs scored by the number of times the batter was out.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= Batting collapse}} {{defn|defn= When several batters are dismissed in rapid succession for very few runs. The terms ''top order collapse'' or ''middle order collapse'' may refer to batting collapses in a specific part of the ''batting order''.}}

{{term|term= Batting for a draw}} {{defn|defn= Defensive ''batting'' in a ''timed match'' by a team with little chance of victory, who are instead attempting to salvage a ''draw''. The ''batters'' seek to survive as many ''balls'' as possible before losing their ''wicket'', without attempting to score many ''runs'' and avoiding aggressive ''shots''. Sometimes regarded as boring to watch, and sometimes as producing tense finishes.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Knox |first1=Malcolm |title=England resurrect the lost art of batting for a draw |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/england-resurrect-the-lost-art-of-batting-for-a-draw-20130824-2shtk.html |access-date=10 September 2019 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=23 August 2013 |language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Batting order |content= Batting order }} {{defn|defn= The order in which the ''batters'' bat, from the ''openers'', through the ''top order'' and ''middle order'' to the ''lower order''.<ref name=e119/>}}

{{term|term= Beach cricket |content= Beach cricket }} {{defn|defn= An informal form of the game played on beaches, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and cricket-playing Caribbean countries.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.topendsports.com/sport/cricket/beach-cricket.htm |title=Rules of Beach Cricket |publisher=Topendsports.com |access-date=2013-08-02}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Beamer |content= Beamer }} {{defn|defn= A ''delivery'' that reaches the ''batter'' above waist height without bouncing. This is illegal and an automatic ''no-ball''.<ref name=cric/> Further sanctions are applied to repeat offences, though the exact rules have changed several times. Since 2019, if the ''umpire'' believes that the beamer was dangerous and risked injury to the batter, they issue a first and final warning to the ''bowler''; a second dangerous delivery results in the bowler being banned from bowling for the remainder of that ''innings''.<ref>{{cite web |title=Change to Law 41.7 (from 1st April 2019) |url=https://www.lords.org/assets/Uploads/Law-Change-41.7-v6.pdf |website=Lord's |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |access-date=17 February 2020 |date=13 November 2018 |quote=There is no longer a 'catch-all' sanction, but umpires are instead required to use their best judgement to determine whether a delivery is dangerous. If it is dangerous, it will lead to a first and final warning. If not, it will still be a No ball, but there will be no warning.}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Beat the bat}} {{defn|defn= When a ''batter'' narrowly avoids touching the ball with the edge of their bat, through good fortune rather than skill. Considered a moral victory for the ''bowler''. The batter is said to have been beaten. In some cases, this may be expanded to "beaten all ends up".<ref name=e120>Eastaway, p. 120.</ref>}}

{{term|term= Beehive}} {{defn|defn= A diagram showing where a number of balls, usually from a particular bowler, have passed the batter.<ref name="Hawk-eye innovations">{{cite web|url=http://www.hawkeyeinnovations.co.uk/?page_id=1012 |title=Hawk-eye innovations |publisher=Hawk-eye innovations |access-date=2013-08-02}}</ref> Compare pitch map.}}

{{term|term= Beer match}} {{defn|defn= In club cricket, where the scheduled game ends early, a friendly match concocted to fill in time, originally where licensing hours would have prevented the teams from retiring to the pub, but also for love of the game. Often played with an unusual format, such as "reverse batting order", "every outfielder must bowl", or "bats retire at 25". }}

{{term|term= Belter}} {{defn|defn= A belter of a pitch is a pitch offering advantage to the batter.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bend the back}} {{defn|defn= Of a pace bowler, to put in extra effort to extract extra speed or bounce.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Benefit season |content= Benefit season }} {{defn|defn= A series of fundraising events to reward a long-serving player, typically those who have played over a decade for a single ''county cricket'' team, shortly before the player retires. Similar in concept to testimonial matches played in other sports.}}

{{term|term= Best bowling}} {{defn|defn= The ''bowling analysis'' with the most ''wickets'' taken in an ''innings''; the fewest ''runs'' conceded are used as a tie-breaker. This can be used to compare different ''bowlers'' within a single ''match'', or to highlight the best performance by an individual over an extended period, such as a ''season'' or their whole career. The equivalent for batters is the ''high score''.}}

{{term|term= Biffer }} {{defn|defn= slang term for an attacking batter. A biffer is the opposite of a blocker, being a defending player. In earlier times (particularly pre-World War II) cricketers were either amateur (''Gentlemen'') or professional (''Players''). Typically, but not universally, amateurs would be "biffers" and professionals "blockers". The word derives from the slightly archaic transitive verb, "biff" which means "hit". Today, biffers tend to be known as ''big hitters''.}}

{{term|term= Bite}} {{defn|defn= the turn a spin bowler is able to produce on a pitch.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Block |content= Block }} {{defn|defn= A defensive ''shot'', intending to stop the ''ball'' safely without attempting to score ''runs''. The most common form of block is the ''forward defensive''.<ref name=e120/> }}

{{term|term= Blocker}} {{defn|defn= slang term for a defensive or slow-scoring batter, the opposite of biffer. In earlier times (particularly pre-World War II) cricketers were either professional or amateur. Typically, but not universally, amateurs would be "biffers" and professionals "blockers". The word derives from the natural tendency of such batters to "block" each delivery, rather than try to score runs. Such players tend to have low strike rates, but in many cases high averages due to their lack of aggressive shots giving bowlers less chances to dismiss them. They are typically less effective in limited overs cricket where quick scoring is often needed, though some are able to adapt their game to score quicker in the shorter formats of the game.}}

{{term|term= Block hole}} {{defn|defn= the gap between the bottom of the ''bat'' and the ''batter's'' toes. This area is the target for a ''yorker'', as it is difficult to ''block'' unless the batter is expecting it.<ref name=e120/>}}

{{term|term= Blob}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|duck}}''}}

{{term|term= Bodyline |content= Bodyline (or fast leg theory)}} {{defn|defn= a historical tactic involving ''fast bowling'' aimed at the ''batter's'' body with numerous close fielders placed on the ''leg side''. Bodyline was developed in the early 1930s and used by England (who called it "fast leg theory") during the 1932–33 Ashes Tour. The tactic was highly controversial, leading to accusations of unsporting behaviour and deliberately attempting to injure or intimidate the batters. Changes to the rules were brought it to outlaw dangerous deliveries and to limit the number of leg-side fielders and ''bouncers'', making bodyline obsolete.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Boot Hill}} {{defn|defn= Another term for short leg, the least liked and most dangerous of the fielding positions. The term is derived from this potential for getting hit by the ball, being a reference to the Boot Hills of the American West, graveyards for those who "died with their boots on". Due to its unpopularity the position has traditionally been taken by the junior professional, although this is no longer necessarily the case. According to former England fielding coach Richard Halsall, a good short leg has to be physically brave, an outstanding catcher, and preferably a good reader of the batter, and are indeed normally batters themselves.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/wisdenalmanack/content/story/753757.html |title=Banished to Boothill |last1=Westerby |first1=John |date=2014 |website=ESPNcricinfo|access-date=4 April 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite encyclopedia |last=Green |first=Jonathon |author-link=Jonathon Green |encyclopedia=Dictionary of Jargon |title=Boot Hill |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=4QAjAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA73 |access-date=4 April 2016 |year=2013|series=Routledge Revivals |publisher=Routledge |location=Abingdon-on-Thames |isbn=978-1-317-90818-0|page=73}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Bosie |content= Bosie or bosey {{anchor|bosey}} }} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|googly}}''<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bottom hand}} {{defn|defn= The hand of the ''batter'' that is closest to the blade of the bat. Shots played with the bottom hand often are hit in the air.<ref name=e120/>}}

thumb|A ''batter'' ducks under a ''bouncer''. {{term|term= Bouncer |content= Bouncer }} {{defn|defn= a fast short pitched ''delivery'' that rises up near the ''batter's'' head.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Bounce out }} {{defn|defn= to get a ''batter'' out with the aid of bounce, often by getting them caught out<ref>{{cite web|title=Lyon, Cummins share the wickets as Australia cruise to victory in first Test|url=https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/1301239|access-date=2020-08-31|website=www.icc-cricket.com|language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Boundary |content= Boundary }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the perimeter of the ''field''<ref name=e120/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= a rope that demarcates that perimeter<ref name=ecb/>}} {{defn|no=3|defn= a ''shot'' which reaches (or passes over) the boundary rope. If the ball touches the ground before reaching the boundary, the shot scores ''four'' ''runs''. If it does not touch the ground before reaching the rope, the shot scores ''six'' runs.<ref name=e120/> }}

{{term|term= Bowled |content= Bowled }} {{defn|defn= a mode of a ''batter's'' dismissal. Occurs when a ''delivery'' hits the ''stumps'' and removes at least one ''bail''.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 32.1 |chapter=Out Bowled |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Bowled around the legs}} {{defn|defn= ''out'' ''bowled'' by a ''delivery'' which passes the ''batter'' on the ''leg side'' before hitting the ''wicket''. The term implies that the batter has moved too far over to their ''off side''.}}

{{term|term= Bowled out}} {{defn|no=1|defn= see ''{{gli|all out}}''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= Sometimes incorrectly used in place of ''bowled''.}}

[[File:Darren Gough bowling.jpg|thumb|''Bowler'' Darren Gough winds up to deliver a ball.]] {{term|term= Bowler}} {{defn|no=1|defn= The player who is currently ''bowling''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A player who specialises in ''bowling''.}}

{{term|term= Bowling |content= Bowling }} {{defn|defn= the act of ''delivering'' the cricket ball to the ''batter''.<ref name=e120/>}}

{{term|term= Bowl-out }} {{defn|defn= A method for breaking a ''tie'' which was used in some ''limited overs matches'' in the late 20th and early 21st centuries; most competitions have replaced it with the ''super over''. Five players from each team bowled at an undefended ''wicket'', with the team with the most hits winning. Sudden death was used if the number was equal. The concept was analogous to the penalty shootout used in other sports.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://l.yimg.com/t/icccricket/pdfs/twenty20-playing-conditions-1st-October-2007.doc.pdf |title=ICC Official Website – International Twenty20 Regulations |access-date=2013-08-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303231000/http://l.yimg.com/t/icccricket/pdfs/twenty20-playing-conditions-1st-October-2007.doc.pdf |archive-date=3 March 2016 }}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Bowling action |content= Bowling action or action}} {{defn|defn= The set of movements a ''bowler'' goes through in a ''delivery''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Bowling analysis |content= Bowling analysis or bowling figures }} {{defn|defn= A statistical summary of a ''bowler's'' performance. Two formats are common: either the numbers of ''overs''–''maidens''–''runs'' conceded–''wickets'', or the shorter numbers of wickets/runs e.g. 12-2-46-3 or 3/46, pronounced 'three for forty-six'.<ref name=e120/>}}

{{term|term= Bowling at the death }} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|death overs}}''<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bowling average |content= Bowling average }} {{defn|defn= The number of ''runs'' conceded by a ''bowler'', divided by the number of ''wickets'' they have taken. One of several statistics used to compare the performances of bowlers over extended periods; lower is better.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Box |content= Box }} {{defn|defn= a protective item shaped like a half-shell and inserted into the front pouch of a jockstrap with cup pocket worn underneath a player's (particularly a ''batter's'') trousers to protect their genitalia from the hard cricket ball. Also known as an ''abdominal protector'', ''Hector protector'', ''ball box'', ''protector'', ''athletic cup'', ''protective cup'' or ''cup''.<ref name=e120/>}}

{{term|term= Brace}} {{defn|defn= two ''wickets'' taken off two consecutive deliveries.}}

{{term|term= Break}} {{defn|defn= a suffix denoting the ball changing direction after ''pitching'' caused by the bowler's ''spin'' or ''cut''. For example, a ''leg spinner'' will deliver ''leg breaks'' (moving from leg to off).<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Buffet bowling}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|cafeteria bowling}}''.}}

{{term|term= Bump ball}} {{defn|defn= A ball played off the bat immediately into the ground and then caught by a fielder. Often this has the appearance of being a clean catch directly off the bat.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bumper}} {{defn|defn= old-fashioned name for a ''bouncer''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bunny}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|rabbit}}''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Bunsen}} {{defn|defn= A pitch on which spin bowlers can turn the ball prodigiously. From the rhyming slang: 'Bunsen Burner' meaning 'Turner'.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Buzzer}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|overthrows}}''}}

{{term|term= Bye |content= Bye }} {{defn|defn= ''extras'' scored in the same way as normal runs when the ball does not make contact with any part of the ''batter'' (bat, protective gear, body parts).<ref name=cric/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==C== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Cafeteria bowling}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(also '''buffet bowling''')}} Poor quality ''bowling'' which is easy to hit, allowing the ''batters'' to help themselves to ''runs'', analogous to a self-service cafeteria or buffet. Occasionally employed deliberately as ''declaration bowling''.}}

{{term|term= Call }} {{defn|no=1|defn= A shouted announcement by a ''fielder'' while the ''ball'' is in the air, usually the word "''mine''", indicating that they are about to attempt a ''catch''. Considered good practice, to avoid two fielders colliding if both attempt to take the same catch.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A shouted, normally single word, instruction from a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', indicating whether to attempt a ''run''. Only one batter makes a call, to avoid confusion that could lead to a ''run out''. Responsibility for making the call is held by whichever batter has the better view of the ''ball'' and can see whether any ''fielders'' are close to it. This is most often the ''striker'' for a ''shot'' in front of ''square'', and the ''non-striker'' for a shot behind square. Common possible calls include ''yes'', ''no'', ''wait'', ''push'', ''one'', ''two'' or ''three''.}}

{{multiple image|width=thumb|direction=vertical|image1=2017–18 W Ashes A v E Test 17-11-11 Ecclestone's cap (01).jpg|image2=2017–18 W Ashes A v E Test 17-11-10 Perry portrait (02).jpg|footer=Two examples of cricket caps: the blue cap of England and the ''baggy green'' of Australia}} {{term|term= Cap}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A type of soft material hat, traditionally worn by ''fielders''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= An appearance for a national team.}}

{{term|term= Captain |content= Captain}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''skipper''')}} The player who has been appointed leader of their team. The captain decides which ''bowler'' will deliver each ''over'', the placement of the ''fielders'', the ''batting order'', when to use the ''decision review system'', whether and when to ''declare'', and many other aspects of the game. The captain's tactical abilities can have a major impact on the outcome of a match. The captain often has substantial responsibilities between games as well, such as in team ''selection'' or representing the team in the media.}}

{{term|term= Carrom ball |content= Carrom ball }} {{defn|defn= a style of slow bowling delivery in which the ball is released by flicking the ball between the thumb and a bent middle finger in order to impart spin}}

{{term|term= Carry}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A ''shot'' has carried if the ''ball'' is hit in the air and reaches a ''fielder'' without touching the ground (regardless of whether the fielder then successfully takes a ''catch''). If the ball touches the ground before reaching the fielder, it has not carried.<ref name=e121>Eastaway, p. 121.</ref> Slow-motion television replays are sometimes required to determine whether the ball carried or bounced a few inches in front of the fielder.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= The distance which a ''delivery'' bounces through to the ''wicketkeeper'' if the ''batter'' does not play a ''shot''. The wicketkeeper must position themselves at an appropriate distance behind the ''stumps'' for the carry, which depends on the hardness of the ''pitch'', height of the ''bowler'', the ''length'' they are bowling etc.}}

{{term|term= Carry the bat |content= Carry the bat }} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''carry their bat''')}} An ''opener'' batting through an entire ''innings'', remaining ''not out'' at the conclusion. The rest of the team must be ''all out'' (not any other ''end of innings'' scenario). Regarded as an excellent performance by the opening batter.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Cartwheel}} {{defn|defn= The motion of a ''stump'' when hit by a ''delivery'' hard enough that it rips out of the ground and flips end-over-end before landing, like a gymnastic cartwheel.{{citation needed|date=November 2020}}}}

{{term|term= Castled}} {{defn|defn= Clean ''bowled'' usually by a ''yorker'' or a full length ball.}}

{{term|term= Catch }} {{defn|defn= A ''fielder'' gaining complete control of the ''ball'', in one or both hands, before it touches the ground. The ''wicketkeeper'' may use gloves, but no other fielder may use any other equipment or clothing to assist in taking the catch. A fair catch leads to the ''batter'' being ''caught''.}}

{{term|term= Caught |content= Caught }} {{defn|defn= a method of ''dismissal'' in which one of the ''fielders'', including the bowler, ''catches'' the ball before it touches the ground after the ''batter'' hits it (with either the ''bat'' or a ''glove'' that is in contact with the bat).<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 33 |chapter=Caught |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> This is the most common method of getting a batter ''out'' in professional cricket.}}

{{term|term= Caught and bowled}} {{defn|defn= ''Dismissed'' by a ''catch'' taken by the ''bowler''. The term originates from the way such dismissals are recorded on a scorecard (''c & b''); the alternative "bowled and caught", referring to the sequence of events in the strict chronological order, is almost never used.}}

{{term|term= Caught behind}} {{defn|defn= ''Dismissed'' by a ''catch'' taken by the ''wicket-keeper''. Usually from an ''edge'' or ''glove'', but sometimes from a ''skier''.}}

{{term|term= Centurion}} {{defn|defn= A player who has scored a ''century''.}}

{{term|term= Century |content= Century }} {{defn|no=1|defn= A score of at least 100 ''runs'' by a single ''batter''; considered a substantial personal achievement.<ref name=e121/>}} {{defn|no=2|defn= (rare) An ironic term for a ''bowler'' who has conceded over 100 runs in an ''innings''.<ref name=e121/>}}

{{term|term= Chance}} {{defn|defn= An opportunity to ''dismiss'' a ''batter'' that isn't taken by the ''fielding'' side. Common examples include a ''shot'' that ''carries'' to a ''fielder'' who then ''drops'' the ''catch''; a possible ''run out'' in which the fielder's throw misses the ''stumps''; or a fumble by a ''wicketkeeper'' during an attempted ''stumping''.<ref>{{cite web|title=Tracking the misses|url=https://www.thecricketmonthly.com/story/1056115/tracking-the-misses|access-date=2020-08-31|website=Cricinfo|language=en}}</ref> If a batter does not provide any chances to the opponent, it is referred to as a "chanceless ''innings''" or "chanceless ''knock''".<ref>{{cite web|date=2006-08-25|title=Look folks, it's Ben Stokes|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/149816.html|access-date=2020-08-31|website=Cricinfo|language=en}}</ref> Some commentators refer to a very difficult opportunity as a "half chance".<ref>{{cite web|date=2019-06-12|title=ICC World Cup 2019: New Zealand's Lockie Ferguson reveals plan to counter Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/icc-world-cup-2019-new-zealand-s-lockie-ferguson-reveals-plan-to-counter-virat-kohli-and-rohit-sharma/story-tZ7b0rZuIymMl25aSIxB5I.html|access-date=2020-08-31|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Charge }} {{defn|defn= A ''batter'' moving quickly towards to the ''bowler'' while the ''delivery'' is in ''flight'', to gain momentum for a powerful ''shot'' (often a ''slog'').<ref name=cric/> A more aggressive version of a ''dance down'', with even higher risk, so usually only attempted in the ''death overs''.}}

{{term|term= Check upstairs }} {{defn|defn= Invoke the ''Umpire Decision Review System'', especially by the ''umpires'' themselves. The ''third umpire'' is usually seated high in the stadium, and replays are often displayed on elevated screens, hence the expression.}}

{{term|term= Cherry }} {{defn|no=1|defn= Slang term for a ''red ball'', especially in Australia.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A red mark left on a ''bat'' by the impact of a ''red ball'', most commonly a ''new ball'' (which has fresh red dye on its surface).}}

{{term|term= Chest on}} {{defn|{{ghat|(also '''front on''' or '''square on''')}}}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A bowler whose chest and hips are aligned towards the batter at the instant of ''back foot contact''.<ref name=cric/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= A batter whose hips and shoulders face towards the bowler at the moment of ''release''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Chin music |content= Chin music }} {{defn|defn= The use of a series of bouncers from pace bowlers to intimidate a batter. Term taken from baseball.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Chinaman }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|left-arm unorthodox spin}}''}}

{{term|term= Chinese cut}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|French cut}}''}}

{{term|term= Chop on}} {{defn|defn= to be ''bowled'' by the ball deflecting off the inside or bottom ''edge'' of the bat and onto the stumps while playing a shot}}

{{term|term= Chuck}} {{defn|defn= of a ''bowler'', to ''throw'' the ball by bending the elbow instead of ''bowling'' it with a straight arm; also '''chucker''': a ''bowler'' who chucks; and '''chucking''': such an illegal bowling action. All are considered offensive terms as they imply cheating.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Circle}} {{defn|defn= a painted circle (or ellipse), centred in the middle of the ''pitch'', of radius 30-yard (27 m) marked on the field. The circle separates the ''infield'' from the ''outfield'', used in policing the fielding regulations in certain one-day versions of the game. The exact nature of the restrictions vary depending on the type of game: see limited overs cricket, Twenty20 and powerplay (cricket).}}

{{term|term= Clean bowled}} {{defn|defn= ''bowled'', without the ''ball'' first hitting the ''bat'' or ''pad''.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Club}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A group of cricketers, from which one or more teams are formed.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= To strike the ball gracelessly, but with great force. A weaker form of ''slog''.}}

{{term|term= Club cricket |content=Club cricket}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(grade cricket in Australia)}} Formally organised cricket played by skilled amateurs. Considered a higher standard of play than purely recreational ''village cricket'', but still lower than professional forms of the sport.}}

{{term|term= Collapse}} {{defn|defn=see ''{{gli|batting collapse}}''}}

{{term|term= Come to the crease }} {{defn|defn= A phrase used to indicate a batter walking onto the playing arena and arriving at the cricket pitch in the middle of the ground to begin batting.}}

{{term|term= Competitive Women's Cricket }} {{defn|defn= The official designation given to the female equivalents to First-class, List A and T20 cricket.<ref>{{cite web|title=ICC Classification of Official Cricket|url=https://pulse-static-files.s3.amazonaws.com/ICC/document/2017/09/24/4510678a-e031-4a9b-a402-397d4868adb6/ICC-Classification-of-Official-Cricket-Effective-1st-October-2017.pdf|page=[https://pulse-static-files.s3.amazonaws.com/ICC/document/2017/09/24/4510678a-e031-4a9b-a402-397d4868adb6/ICC-Classification-of-Official-Cricket-Effective-1st-October-2017.pdf#page=9 9]|publisher=International Cricket Council|date=1 October 2017|access-date=17 October 2017}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Compulsory close (cc) }} {{defn|defn= When a team's innings is closed and completed by a means other than being ''all out'' or ''declaring''. This particularly applies in grade cricket competitions where each innings of a two-innings match is also subject to a time or overs limit. The letters (cc) appear in the team's score to reflect this; ''e.g.'' 266–7(cc).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.northscricket.com/pageitem.aspx?id=18378|title=NSCA – Entering results into MyCricket|date=28 October 2008|access-date=9 April 2021|publisher=Northern Suburbs Cricket Association|archive-date=28 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128211003/http://www.northscricket.com/pageitem.aspx?id=18378|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Conventional swing}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|swing}}''}}

{{term|term= Contrived circumstances }} {{defn|defn= Unusual tactics which are intended to achieve a legitimate outcome, but result in wild statistical abnormalities; for example, deliberately bowling extremely poorly to encourage a quick ''declaration''. ''Wisden'' excludes records set in contrived circumstances from its official lists.<ref>{{cite web|title=The record that never was|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/247910.html|work=ESPNcricinfo|publisher=ESPN|first=Martin|last=Williamson|date=20 May 2006|access-date=13 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105013602/http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/247910.html|archive-date=5 January 2012}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Cordon}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''slips cordon''')}}Collective term for multiple fielders in the ''slips''. Sometimes also includes ''gully''.}}

{{term|term= Corridor of uncertainty |content= Corridor of uncertainty }} {{defn|defn= A good ''line'' and ''length'', around the top of ''off stump'' or just outside it (on ''fourth stump''). A ''delivery'' in this region is difficult for a ''batter'' to decide whether to ''leave'' it, play a ''forward defence'' or ''attacking shot'', and whether to be on the ''front foot'' or ''back foot''.<ref name=cric/><ref name="gallan25">{{cite news |last1=Gallan |first1=Daniel |title=From jaffas to the corridor of uncertainty – revel in cricket's rich language of bowling |url=https://www.theguardian.com/global/2025/dec/10/from-jaffas-to-the-corridor-of-uncertainty-revel-in-crickets-rich-language-of-bowling |work=The Guardian |date=10 December 2025}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= County cricket |content= County cricket }} {{defn|defn= the highest level of domestic cricket in England and Wales.<ref name=e122>Eastaway, p. 122.</ref>}}

thumb|right|A wheeled ''cover'' being removed from the ''pitch'' {{term|term= Cover}} {{defn|{{ghat|(or '''the covers''')}}}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A fielding position on the ''off side'', ''forward'' of ''point'' and ''squarer'' than ''mid-off''.<ref name=e122/> A cover fielder situated closer to point than usual is known as ''cover point'', whilst one which is closer to mid-off is known as ''extra cover''. The plural term 'the covers' refers to all these variants collectively.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A waterproof assembly or tarpaulin used by the ''ground staff'' to protect parts of the field from rain (usually the ''pitch'', ''square'' and ''run ups'').<ref name=e122/> }}

{{term|term= Cow corner}} {{defn|defn= the area of the field (roughly) between deep ''mid-wicket'' and wide ''long-on''. So called because few 'legitimate' shots are deliberately aimed to this part of the field, so fielders are rarely placed there – leading to the concept that cows could happily graze undisturbed in that area.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Cow shot}} {{defn|defn= a hard ''shot'', usually in the air, across the line of a full-pitched ball, aiming to hit the ball over the ''boundary'' at cow corner, with very little regard to proper accepted technique. A type of ''slog''.<ref name=cric/> }}

thumb|right|upright=2.5|Diagram showing the locations of the ''crease'' lines on the ''pitch'' {{term|term= Crease |content= Crease }} {{defn|defn= a straight whitewash line painted on the ''pitch'' near the ''stumps''. At each end of the pitch there are four creases: the 'popping crease', 'bowling crease' and two 'return creases'. The word 'crease' without further qualification refers either to the popping crease or to the region beyond it. The creases are used to adjudge whether a ''run'' has been completed, a ''batter'' is ''run out'', the ''delivery'' is a ''no-ball'' or ''wide'' etc.<ref name=ecb/> }}

{{term|term= Cricketer}} {{defn|defn= a person who plays cricket.<ref>{{cite book|title=Chambers 20th Century Dictionary|editor=Kirkpatrick, E. M.|publisher=W & R Chambers Ltd|location=Edinburgh|year=1983|edition=New Edition 1983|page=296|isbn=0-550-10234-5}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Cross-bat shot}} {{defn|defn= a conventional ''shot'' played with the ''bat'' parallel with the ground, such as a ''cut'' or a ''pull''. Also known as a horizontal-bat shot, it is generally considered a potentially risky option for batters.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Cross the rope}} {{defn |defn= To cross over the boundary rope. Often said of batters who are beginning or resuming an innings,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thecricketmonthly.com/story/586096/chris-harris---i-would-have-loved-to-have-played-international-t20 |title=Chris Harris: 'I would have loved to have played international T20'|website=Cricinfo}}</ref> players entering or exiting the field to begin a session of play,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.batterseabadgers.co.uk/articles/an-ode-to-cricket|title=An Ode to Cricket|website=Battersea Badgers|date=1 October 2012|first = Chris|last = Shone }}</ref> fielders attempting catches,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://au.sports.yahoo.com/cricket-world-cup-2019-windies-sheldon-cottrell-catch-removes-steve-smith-213931893.html|title='Catch of the World Cup' stuns cricket viewers |website=au.sports.yahoo.com|date=6 June 2019 }}</ref> and the ball when the batter scores a boundary}}

{{term|term= Cut |content= Cut }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' played ''square'' on the ''off side'' to a ''short-pitched'' ''delivery'' wide of ''off'' ''stump''. So called because the ''batter'' makes a "cutting" motion as they play the ''shot''.<ref name=e122/>}}

{{term|term= Cutter}} {{defn|defn= a ''break'' ''delivery'' bowled by a ''fast'' or ''medium-pace'' ''bowler'' with similar action to a ''spin bowler'', but at a faster pace. It is usually used in an effort to surprise the ''batter'', although some ''medium-pace'' ''bowlers'' use the cutter as their stock (main) ''delivery''.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==D== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Daddy hundred }} {{defn|defn= Informal term for a ''batter''{{'}}s individual score that is substantially higher than a ''century''. Some coaches set a requirement of at least 150 ''runs'', but that value is not universal.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Hopps |first1=David |title=England's Alastair Cook hits new heights with 'grandaddy hundred' |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2011/aug/12/alastair-cook-england-india |access-date=9 February 2022 |work=The Guardian |date=12 August 2011 |language=en |quote=daddy hundreds – defined by his batting coach, Graham Gooch, as innings of more than 150}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Daisy cutter }} {{defn|no=1|defn= A low-trajectory ''delivery'' in which the ''ball'' bounces twice, or rolls along the ground, before reaching the ''batter''.<ref name=daisy_cutter>{{cite dictionary|url=https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/daisy-cutter|dictionary=Collins English Dictionary|title=daisy cutter}}</ref> A type of ''no ball''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A ''shot'' in which the ''ball'' travels on a low trajectory, bouncing just above the grass.<ref name=daisy_cutter/><ref>{{cite dictionary|url=https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/daisy%20cutter|dictionary=Merriam-Webster|title=daisy cutter}}</ref> This retains more speed than a rolling ball, while being very difficult to ''catch''.}}

{{term|term= Dance down |content= Dance down (the pitch)}} {{defn|defn= A ''batter'' using ''footwork'' to move closer to the ''bowler'' while the ''delivery'' is in ''flight'', typically with a skipping motion, changing the effective ''length''. A near-synonym of ''charge'', but less aggressive. Considered risky, because if the batter misses their ''shot'' they are likely to be ''stumped'' or ''run out''.}}

[[File:Australia vs South Africa.jpg|thumb|right|A ''day/night match'', between Australia and South Africa at The Gabba in 2006]] {{term|term= Day/night match |content= Day/night cricket }} {{defn|defn= a cricket match scheduled to begin during day time and end after sunset, using floodlights. Used in some ''one day internationals'' since 1979, and ''Test matches'' since 2015.}}

{{term|term= DB}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|dot ball}}''}}

{{term|term= Dead ball |content= Dead ball }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the state of play between ''deliveries'', during which ''batters'' may not score ''runs'' or be given ''out''.<ref name=cric/> There are numerous situations where play becomes dead, see dead ball.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= a signal given by the ''umpire'' to indicate a state of dead ball. Used only if the state is not obvious to the players.}}

{{term|term= Dead bat |content= Dead bat }} {{defn|defn= A defensive ''shot'' with the ''bat'' held in a loose ''grip'' or angled towards the ground. If the ''ball'' strikes the bat it loses momentum and falls quickly to the ground. Used to reduce the chance of being ''caught'' off an ''edge''.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Madigan |first1=Ken |title=Cricket Tales |date=15 April 2019 |isbn=978-0-359-62502-4 |page=64 |publisher=Lulu.com |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Dt2YDwAAQBAJ&pg=PA64 }}</ref><ref name=wisden_dict>{{cite book |last1=Rundell |first1=Michael |title=The Wisden Dictionary of Cricket |date=January 2009 |publisher=A. & C. Black |isbn=978-1-4081-0161-2 |edition=3rd |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=6Vu9cih3u1kC&pg=PT67 |page=67}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Dead rubber |content= Dead rubber }} {{defn|defn= A match played in a ''series'' after one side has gained an unassailable lead, e.g. has already won 3 matches in a 5-match series, or in a tournament if both teams have already qualified (or failed to qualify) for the subsequent rounds. The term is used disparagingly to imply that the match is of lesser importance, but some regard the concept as outdated.<ref>{{cite news |title=CWC 2019: No international game is a dead rubber says Usman Khawaja before South Africa match |author=Swapnil Shireesh Javkhedkar |url=https://circleofcricket.com/category/Cricket_World_Cup_2019/39180/cwc-2019-no-international-game-is-a-dead-rubber-says-usman-khawaja-before-south-africa-match |date=1 July 1019|access-date=7 August 2019 |work=Circle of Cricket}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Death bowler }} {{defn|defn= A ''bowler'' who specialises in delivering the ''death overs'' at the end of a ''limited overs match''. Because ''batters'' usually play very aggressively in this period, a death bowler must be particularly skilled at ''variations'' which are difficult to score from or unexpected by the batter, such as ''yorkers'' and ''slower balls''.<ref name=death_overs>{{cite news |title=World Twenty20 2014: The secret of death bowling |author=Sam Sheringham |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/26852992 |date=3 April 2014|access-date=23 August 2019 |work=BBC}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Death overs}} {{defn|{{ghat|(or '''slog overs''')}}}} {{defn|defn= The final few overs of an ''innings'' in a ''limited overs match''. Because only ''runs'' matter in determining the ''result'', a batting side with ''wickets in hand'' will bat very aggressively in this period, seeking to hit every ''delivery'' for a ''boundary'', even if it risks a ''dismissal''. Typically the batting ''strike rate'' is highest in this period, and the bowler's ''economy'' is poorest.<ref name=death_overs/>}}

{{term|term= Death rattle }} {{defn|defn= The sound of the ''ball'' breaking the ''wicket'' when a ''batter'' is ''out bowled''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Debenture |content= Debenture }} {{defn|defn= a certificate of loan agreement, used by some professional ''clubs'' to raise funding. Typically, investors loan money to the club for a fixed period in return for guaranteed free (or reduced price) match tickets during that period. }}

{{term|term= Decision review system (DRS)}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|Umpire Decision Review System}}''.}}

{{term|term= Declaration |content= Declaration }} {{defn|defn= the act of a captain voluntarily bringing their side's ''innings'' to a close, in the belief that their score is now great enough to prevent defeat. Occurs almost exclusively in timed forms of cricket where a draw is a possible result (such as ''first-class cricket''), in order that the side declaring have enough time to bowl the opposition out and therefore win.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Declaration bowling}} {{defn|defn= deliberately poor bowling (specifically Full tosses and Long hops) from the fielding team with the intention of allowing the batters to score runs quickly and thus encourage the opposing captain to declare, thereby giving both teams a reasonable chance of winning in a ''timed match'' which would otherwise have been inevitably drawn. Non-specialist bowlers will often be used in this context, largely to preserve dignity (and the bowling averages) of the specialist bowlers. This may occasionally be seen in domestic ''first-class cricket'', where the points systems used often show little penalty between a draw and a loss; but it would very seldom be seen in Test cricket where the consequence of a loss in the context of a series is greater. Cf. ''Cafeteria bowling''.}}

{{term|term= Deep}} {{defn|defn= (of a fielding position) further away from the batter and closer to the boundary.}}

{{term|term= Defensive field}} {{defn|defn= A fielding configuration in which fielders are spread around the field so as to more readily stop hit balls and reduce the number of runs (particularly ''boundaries'') being scored by ''batters'', at the cost of fewer opportunities to take ''catches'' and ''dismiss batters''.}}

{{term|term= Delivery }} {{defn|defn= the act of bowling the ball;<ref name=barclays/> also, the quality of the way in which a ball is bowled, in either intent or effect.}}

{{term|term= Devil's number |content= Devil's number {{anchor|Dreaded number}} }} {{defn|{{ghat|(or '''dreaded number''')}}}} {{defn|defn= a score of 87, regarded as unlucky in Australian cricket. Superstition holds that ''batters'' are more likely to be ''dismissed'' for 87, because it is 13 runs short of a ''century'' (see triskaidekaphobia).}}

{{term|term= Diamond duck}} {{defn|defn= regional usage varies, but either a dismissal (usually run out) without facing a delivery,<ref>{{cite web|url = http://ls.cricket.com.au/HomeFullScorecardMatchMilestones81_2360_15.html |title = 2008/09 KFC Twenty20 Big Bash – 15th Twenty20: RTA SpeedBlitz Bluesv VB Victorian Bushrangers: ANZ Stadium, 2009-01-17 00:00|website = ls.cricket.com.au|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090120152648/http://ls.cricket.com.au/HomeFullScorecardMatchMilestones81_2360_15.html |archive-date=20 January 2009 }}</ref> or a dismissal (for zero) off the first ball of a team's innings (the less common term ''platinum duck'' is used interchangeably).}}

{{term|term= Dibbly dobbly}} {{defn|{{ghat|(or '''dibbly dobbler''')}}}} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''medium pace'' delivery, neither fast nor slow, with no special variation.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= a ''bowler'' who uses this type of ''delivery'' as their ''stock ball''.}} {{defn|no=3|defn= a ''delivery'' that is easy to hit, but difficult to score quickly from.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Dilscoop}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|paddle scoop}}''}}

{{term|term= Dink}} {{defn|defn= a deliberately gentle shot played by a batter, without attempted power, in order to guide the ball into an unguarded area of the field, largely using the ball's own momentum from the ''delivery''. Often effective against fast bowlers.}}

{{term|term= Dinner}} {{defn|defn= the second of the two intervals taken during a full day's play specifically during a day/night test.}}

{{term|term= Dipper}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' bowled which curves into or away from the ''batter'' before ''pitching''.}}

{{term|term= dismissal |content= Dismissal }} {{defn|defn= Take the ''wicket'' of one of the ''batters'', so they must cease ''batting'' for the remainder of the ''innings''. A batter who has been dismissed is referred to as ''out''; if ten members of the batting side are dismissed (or ''retire''), the team are ''all out''. There are ten possible methods, but the vast majority of dismissals are one of five types: ''caught'', ''bowled'', ''leg before wicket'', ''run out'' and ''stumped''.}}

{{term|term= Direct hit}} {{defn|defn= a throw from a ''fieldsman'' that directly strikes and puts down a ''wicket'' (without first being caught by a fieldsman standing at the ''stumps''). Occurs when attempting a ''run out''.}}

{{term|term= D/L}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|Duckworth-Lewis method}}''}}

{{term|term= DLS}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|Duckworth-Lewis method}}''}}

{{term|term= Dobbing}} {{defn|defn= a synonym for ''Mankad'', specifically used in Lancashire and some neighbouring counties{{citation needed|date=January 2022}}}}

{{term|term= Doctored pitch}} {{defn|defn= a ''cricket pitch'' which has been intentionally prepared in a specific manner in order to gain a competitive advantage for the home team, such as creating a dry, crumbly surface that particularly favours the home team's ''spin'' bowlers, or a firm, grassy surface which would favour fast bowlers, or any surface which exacerbates perceived weaknesses in the visiting team's batting. Whilst widely considered unsporting, the practice is comparatively common and is (within reason) legal, but the term is always used pejoratively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/blogs/content/story/772595.html|title=It's home advantage, not doctored pitches|author=Michael Jeh|date=21 August 2014|publisher=ESPN Cricinfo|access-date=12 July 2015}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= Dolly}} {{defn|defn= a very easy ''catch''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Donkey drop}} {{defn|defn= A ball with a very high trajectory prior to bouncing.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Doosra |content= Doosra }} {{defn|defn= A ''delivery'' by a ''finger spin'' ''bowler'' which ''turns'' in the opposite direction to the ''stock delivery''. The word is Hindi/Urdu (Hindustani) for 'second' or 'other'.<ref name=cric/> Some bowlers can perform the required ''bowling action'' legally, whilst others cannot do so without ''throwing'', which is often ascribed to physiological differences.}}

{{term|term= Dorothy}} {{defn|defn= rhyming slang for ''six'', referring to the author Dorothy Dix.{{citation needed|date=March 2021}}}}

{{term|term= Dot ball |content=Dot ball (DB)}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' bowled without any ''runs'' scored off it, so called because it is recorded in the score book with a single dot.}}

{{term|term= Double |content= Double }} {{defn|defn= normally the scoring of a 1000 runs and the taking of 100 wickets in the same season.}}

{{term|term= Down the pitch}} {{defn|{{ghat|(also '''down the wicket''')}}}} {{defn|defn= referring to the motion of a ''batter'' towards the ''bowler'' prior to or during the ''delivery'', made in the hope of turning a ''good length'' ball into a ''half-volley''.}}

{{term|term= Drag}} {{defn|defn= before the current "front foot rule" was introduced, bowlers had to release the ball with the rear foot behind the bowling crease; there were instances of bowlers (especially Gordon Rorke) managing to "drag" the rear foot forward before release and not being no-balled.}}

{{term|term= Draw }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a result in timed matches where the team batting last are not all out, but fail to exceed their opponent's total. Not to be confused with a tie, in which the side batting last is all out or run out of overs with the scores level. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= an antiquated stroke that has fallen into disuse, it was originally a deliberate shot that resembled the ''French cut'' – the ball being played between one's own legs.<ref name=barclays3>''Barclays World of Cricket – 3rd Edition'', 1986, Guild Publishing/Willow Books (Collins), pp693–700.</ref>}}

{{term|term= Draw stumps}} {{defn|defn= Declare the game, or a day's play, over; a reference to withdrawing the ''stumps'' from the ground by the umpire.}}

{{term|term= Drift}} {{defn|defn= the slight lateral curved-path movement that a ''spinner'' extracts while the ball is in flight. Considered very good bowling as it increases the difficulty for a batter to correctly judge the precise movement and path of the ball .<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Drinks}} {{defn|defn= an agreed short break in play, generally taken in the middle of a ''session'', when refreshments are brought out to the players and umpires by the ''twelfth men'' of each side. Drinks breaks do not always need to take place, but they are usual in test matches, particularly in hot countries.}}

{{term|term= Drinks waiter}} {{defn|defn= a jocular term for the ''twelfth man'', referring to his job of bringing out ''drinks''.}}

thumb|right|A left-handed ''batter'' plays a ''drive'' shot through the ''covers'' {{term|term= Drive |content= Drive }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' played with a ''straight bat'' on the ''front foot'', aiming anywhere between ''point'' on the ''off side'' and ''mid-wicket'' on the ''leg side''. The drive is the most common shot for scoring ''runs'', and often considered the most aesthetically pleasing. Several sub-types are recognised depending on direction, including the ''square'' drive, ''cover'' drive, ''off'' drive, ''straight'' drive and ''on'' drive.}}

{{term|term= Drop }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the accidental "dropping" of a ball that was initially caught by a fielder, thus denying the dismissal of the batter; when such an event occurs, the batter is said to have been "dropped". }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the number of ''dismissals'' which occur in a team's ''innings'' before a given ''batter'' goes ''in'' to bat; a batter batting at 'first drop' is batting at number three in the ''batting order'', going in after one wicket has fallen.}} {{defn|no=3|defn= the act of excluding a player from '''selection''' in a squad even when they were included in the most recent prior selection.}}

{{term|term= Dropper}} {{defn|defn= Obsolete term for a ''delivery'' by ''lob bowling'', or a ''bowler'' who employed this style. Common in the 19th century, this form of bowling is now usually illegal.}}

{{term|term= Drop-in pitch |content= Drop-in pitch }} {{defn|defn= a temporary pitch that is cultivated off-site from the field which also allows other sports to share the use of the field with less chance of injury to the players.}}

{{term|term= DRS}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|Umpire Decision Review System}}''}}

{{term|term= Duck |content= Duck }} {{defn|defn= a batter's score of nought (zero) ''dismissed'', as in "he was out for a duck." It can refer to a score of nought ''not out'' during an innings, as in "she hasn't got off her duck yet", but never refers to a completed innings score of nought ''not out''. Originally called a "duck's egg" because of the "0" shape in the scorebook.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/> ( see '''Golden''', '''Diamond''', and '''Platinum duck''' )}}

{{term|term= Duck under delivery}} {{defn|defn= a short pitched delivery that appears to be a bouncer, making the striker duck to avoid from being hit; but instead of bouncing high, it has a low bounce which causes the batter to be dismissed LBW, or occasionally bowled.}}

{{term|term= Duckworth-Lewis method |content= Duckworth-Lewis method (D/L)}} {{defn|{{ghat|(or '''Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method''', '''DLS''')}}}} {{defn|defn= a ''rain rule'' used if a ''limited overs'' match is curtailed by bad weather. If the match cannot be completed, the Duckworth-Lewis method determines the winner, or if the match can be continued but needs to be shortened, it calculates a revised ''target'' for the team batting second. The mathematical formula is based on analysis of past completed matches. Used in all international matches since 1999, and in most domestic leagues.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Dugout |content= Dugout }} {{defn|defn= term taken from association football, a sheltered place just outside the boundary ropes where a team's non-active players and staff sit. Dugouts are a common feature of Twenty20 matches, but ''pavilions'' are usually used for any longer forms of the game.}}

{{glossary end}}

==E==<!-- This section is linked from Bodyline --> {{glossary}} {{term|term= Eagle-Eye }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|ball tracking}}''}}

{{term|term= Economical}} {{defn|defn= A bowler who concedes very few runs from their ''over(s)'', i.e. has a low ''economy rate''. The opposite of ''expensive''.}}

{{term|term= Economy rate}} {{defn|defn= The average number of ''runs'' conceded per ''over'' delivered by an individual ''bowler''. Lower values are better.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Edge |content= Edge}} {{defn|no=1|defn= The sides of the ''bat''. If the bat is held vertically, they are known as the inside and outside edges; if held horizontally, they are the top and bottom edges. Not to be confused with the ''toe end''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= ''(also '''snick''' or '''nick''')'' A deflection of the ''ball'' off the ''edge'' of the ''bat'', usually slight and unintentional. A large deflection is known as a thick edge; the opposite is a thin edge. The change in direction is sometimes so small that it isn't visible, but the edge can be detected by the distinct snicking sound it makes. Any edge counts as hitting the ball, so the ''batter'' can score ''runs'', but usually gives a ''chance'' for a ''catch'' in the ''slips'' or for ''caught behind''. It can also result in ''playing on''. See also ''leading edge''.<ref name=e123>Eastaway, p. 123.</ref>}}

{{term|term= Eleven}} {{defn|defn= another name for one cricket team, which is made of eleven players.<ref name=e123/>}}

{{term|term= End}} {{defn|defn= An area of the ground directly behind one of the ''stumps'', used to designate what end a bowler is bowling from (e.g. the pavilion end).<ref name=e123/> The bowlers take turns delivering alternating overs from the two ends of the pitch.}}

{{term|term= End of an innings |content= End of an innings }} {{defn|defn= The conclusion of a batting side's ''innings''. Mostly commonly, this occurs when they are ''all out'' or (in a ''limited overs match'') when the allocated number of ''overs'' have been bowled. Other situations where the innings ends are: the side batting last reaches the ''target'', thereby winning the ''match''; the ''captain'' of the batting side ''declares''; the allocated time expires (in a ''timed match''), so the result is a ''draw''; or if the officials declare a ''forfeit''.}}

{{term|term= Expensive}} {{defn|defn= a bowler who concedes a large number of runs from their ''over(s)'', i.e. has a high ''economy rate''.<ref name=e123/> The opposite of ''economical''.}}

{{term|term= Express pace}} {{defn|defn= Fast bowling at speeds above 150&nbsp;km/h<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/95065.html|title=Records / All cricket records (including minor cricket) / Miscellaneous records / Bowling speeds (1) |work=ESPNCricInfo.com}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Extra |content= Extra }} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(called a '''sundry''' in Australia)}} A ''run'' awarded to the ''batting team'' that is not credited to a specific ''batter''. These are recorded separately on the ''scorecard''. There are five types: ''byes'', ''leg byes'', ''wides'', ''no-balls'' and ''penalties''. Wides and no-balls are also recorded as runs conceded in the ''bowling analysis'', the others are not attributed to the bowler.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Extra cover}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|cover}}''}}

{{glossary end}}

==F== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Facing}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|on strike}}''}}

{{term|term= Fall}} {{defn|defn= a verb used to indicate the dismissal of a batter, ''e.g'' "The fourth wicket fell for the addition of only three runs".}}

{{term|term= Fall of wicket |content= Fall of wicket (FOW)}} {{defn|defn= the batting team's ''score'' at the moment each ''batter'' is ''out''.<ref name=e123/>}}

{{term|term= Farm the strike |content= Farm the strike (also ''shepherd the strike'' or ''farm the bowling'') }} {{defn|defn= of a batter, contrive to receive the majority of the balls bowled,<ref name=e123/> usually because they are the more skilled of the two batters in facing the bowling style of the bowler. This usually results in the batter contriving to make an even number of runs (for example, by waiting until certain of hitting a 4 or 6, or by running only 2 when they could have run 3) so that they will again face the bowler. For the same reason, they will try to score a single from the last ball of the over, whereas their weaker partner would not attempt to score from it.}}

{{term|term= Fast bowling |content= Fast bowling }} {{defn|defn= a style of bowling in which the ball is ''delivered'' at high speeds, typically over 90 mph (145 km/h). Fast bowlers also use ''swing''.<ref name=e123/>}}

{{term|term= Fast leg theory}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|bodyline}}''}}

{{term|term= Feather}} {{defn|defn= a faint edge.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Featherbed}} {{defn|defn= A soft, slow pitch of predictable bounce. Such pitches are considered to be good for batting on, offering little, if any, help for a bowler.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Fence}} {{defn|defn= The boundary. Sometimes used in the phrase 'find(s) the fence', which is said of a ball that is hit to the boundary.}}

{{term|term= -fer}} {{defn|defn= a suffix to any number, meaning the number of wickets taken by a team or bowler. (See also ''fifer/five-fer'')}}

{{term|term= Ferret}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|rabbit}}''.<ref name=cric/>}}

thumb|right|Diagram of a typical oval ''field'' {{term|term= Field |content= Field}} {{defn|no=1|defn= (noun) a large grass turf area on which the sport is played, forming part of the wider ''ground''. Typically oval, but a wide variety of other shapes are permitted provided they are at least {{convert|130|yd|m}} in diameter. At (or near) the centre of the field is the ''pitch'', and the edge of the field is the ''boundary'', marked by a boundary rope.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= (verb) the act of ''fielding''.}}

{{term|term= Fielder |content= Fielder (also, more traditionally, ''fieldsman'') }} {{defn|defn= a player on the fielding side who is neither the ''bowler'' nor the ''wicket-keeper'', in particular one who has just fielded the ball.}}

{{term|term= Fielding |content= Fielding }} {{defn|defn= Recovering the ''ball'' after each ''delivery''. One of the three major skills of cricket (the others being ''batting'' and ''bowling''), all members of the team take part in the fielding. If the ''batter'' has hit the ball in the air, the ''fielders'' can attempt a ''catch'', to ''dismiss'' the batter. Otherwise they attempt to prevent the ball crossing the ''boundary'', bring it under control, then return it to the vicinity of the ''stumps''. This is done as quickly as possible, to either stop the batters from scoring ''runs'' or to effect a ''run out''.}}

{{term|term= Fill-up game}} {{defn|defn= when a match finished early a further game was sometimes started to fill in the available time and to entertain the paying spectators.}}

{{term|term= Find the gap(s)}} {{defn|defn= to play a shot or series of shots along the ground, in the gaps between fielders. The least risky way of scoring runs quickly, but it requires good technique to be able to do consistently. The opposite, ''finding the man [at some fielding position]'', is often used when the ball is hit straight to a fielder through the air and is caught.}}

{{term|term= Fine}} {{defn|defn= of a position on the field behind the batter, closer to the line of the ''pitch'' (''wicket-to-wicket''); the opposite of ''square''.<ref name=e123/>}}

{{term|term= Finger spin |content=Finger spin}} {{defn|defn= a form of ''spin bowling'' in which the ''ball'' is made rotate by the action of the ''bowler''{{'}}s fingers (contrast with ''wrist spin''). For a right-handed bowler this produces ''off spin'', whereas the same technique by a left-handed bowler produces ''left arm orthodox spin''.}}

{{term|term= First-class cricket |content= First-class cricket }} {{defn|defn= the senior form of the game; usually county, state or international. First-class matches consist of two ''innings'' per side and are usually played over three or more days.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= First change}} {{defn|defn= the third bowler used in an innings. As the first bowler to replace either of the opening pair this bowler is the ''first change'' that the captain makes to the attack.}}

{{term|term= First eleven |content= First eleven }} {{defn|defn= the best team of (eleven) players at a ''club'', who will be chosen by the ''selector'' for the most important or high-profile games. Other players are used if members of the first eleven are unavailable or in less important fixtures. Some large clubs have enough players to operate a hierarchy of teams, in which case the others are known as the second eleven, third eleven etc.}}

{{term|term= First innings points}} {{defn|defn= In two-innings competitions with a league table to determine standings, in addition to points awarded for winning or tieing a match, a team is also awarded points for taking a first innings lead, ''i.e.'' scoring more than their opponents in the first innings.}}

{{term|term= Fishing}} {{defn|defn= being tempted into throwing the bat at a wider delivery outside off-stump and missing, reaching for a wide delivery and missing. See also ''waft''.}}

{{term|term= Five-wicket haul |content= Five-wicket haul (also ''five-for'', ''five-fer'', ''fifer'', shortened to ''5WI'' or ''FWI'', or colloquially a ''Michelle'', in honour of the actress Michelle Pfeiffer.) }} {{defn|defn= five or more ''wickets'' taken by a ''bowler'' in an ''innings'', considered a very good performance. The term ''five-for'' is an abbreviation of the usual form of writing bowling statistics, e.g., a bowler who takes 5 wickets and concedes 117 runs is said to have figures of "5 for 117" or "5–117". A five-wicket haul is traditionally regarded as a special moment for a bowler, just like a century for a batter. }} {{term|term= Flamingo shot}} {{defn|defn= A type of shot whereby a batter flicks deliveries from outside off-stump through mid-wicket. It is done when the opposition plays a heavy off-side field and then bowl outside off. This shot was originally invented by Kevin Pietersen. It is also played by James Taylor and by New Zealand tailender Trent Boult}} {{term|term= Flash}} {{defn|defn= to wield the bat aggressively, often hitting good line and length deliveries indiscriminately.}}

{{term|term= Flat pitch}} {{defn|defn= a pitch which is advantageous to the ''batters'' and offers little or no help to the bowlers, due to predictable bounce. Also known as a "flat deck"<ref>{{cite web|last=AFP|title=Cricket: Hard work on flat deck for England bowlers|url=https://www.khaleejtimes.com/sport/cricket/cricket-hard-work-on-flat-deck-for-england-bowlers|access-date=2020-08-31|website=Khaleej Times|language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Flat hit}} {{defn|defn= an aerial shot hit with significant power by the batter which travels fast enough to make the ballistic trajectory of the ball appear flat}}

{{term|term= Flat throw}} {{defn|defn= a ball thrown by the fielder which is almost parallel to the ground. Considered to be a hallmark of good fielding if the throw is also accurate because flat throws travel at a fast pace.}}

{{term|term= Flat-track bully}} {{defn|defn= a ''batter'' high in the ''batting order'' who is very good only when the ''pitch'' is not giving the ''bowlers'' much help. 'Track' is Australian slang for the pitch. When the 'track' is said to be 'flat' it is at its easiest for the batter, but these are the only conditions under which some players can dominate. When conditions are tough, or when it really counts – they do not.}}

{{term|term= Flick}} {{defn|defn= a gentle movement of the wrist to move the bat, often associated with shots on the ''leg side''.}}

{{term|term= Flight |content= Flight }} {{defn|defn= a delivery which is thrown up at a more arched trajectory by a ''spinner''. Considered to be good bowling. Also ''loop''.}}

{{term|term= Flipper |content= Flipper }} {{defn|defn= a ''leg spin'' ''delivery'' with ''under-spin'', so it bounces lower than normal, invented by Clarrie Grimmett.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Floater}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' bowled by a spinner that travels in a highly arched path appearing to 'float' in the air.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Fly slip}} {{defn|defn= a position deeper than the conventional slips, between the slips and ''third man''.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Follow-on |content= Follow on }} {{defn|defn= a team which bats first in the second innings, after having batted second in the first innings, is said to have followed on. The captain of the team batting first in the first innings may direct the team batting second to follow on if it leads by a certain margin after the first innings; this margin is currently 200 runs in a five-day game, and 150 runs in a three- or four-day game.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Follow through |content= Follow through }} {{defn|defn= a bowler's body actions after the release of the ball to stabilise their body.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Football scorecard}} {{defn|defn= When the bowling team takes multiple early wickets while conceding very few runs. It is a reference to a typical football scorecard where both teams have single-digit goals. (For example, a team takes three early wickets by conceding only two runs, causing the scorecard to look 2-3)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jennifer |title='Making it a Football match' - Fans react as Trent Boult runs through England's top order in second ODI |url=https://www.sky247.net/cricket/making-it-a-football-match-fans-react-as-trent-boult-runs-through-englands-top-order-in-second-odi/ |access-date=2026-05-25 |website=www.sky247.net |language=en}}</ref>{{bsn|reason=that is a single example of this term in use, not a definition of it|date=May 2026}}}}

{{term|term= Footmarks}} {{defn|defn= On a grass pitch, the bowler creates a rough patch where they lands their foot and follow through after delivering the ball. The rough patch can become cratered and becomes more abrasive as the match continues and more players step on it. The abrasive surface means that the ball will increasingly grip more if it lands in the footmarks. Bowlers, particularly spinners, will aim the ball there as it will turn more sharply, and is more likely to get irregular bounce from such areas, making it more difficult for the opposition batters.}}

{{term|term= Footwork}} {{defn|defn= the necessary feet movements that a batter has to take so as to be at a comfortable distance from where the ball has pitched, just right to hit the ball anywhere they desire, negating any spin or swing that a bowler attempts to extract after bouncing.}}

{{term|term= Form}} {{defn|defn= The quality of a player's recent performances. A player who is 'in form' has played well in recent games, so is likely to do so again. Those that are 'out of form' have struggled recently. A run of poor form may result in the player being ''dropped'' from the team.<ref>{{cite web|title=How to find form and stay in it|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/22661395/how-find-form-stay-it|access-date=2020-12-04|website=www.espncricinfo.com|language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Forty-Five (on the one)}} {{defn|defn= An uncommon fielding position akin to a short third-man, roughly halfway between the pitch and the boundary. Also used for a short backward square leg (at 45° behind square defending a single).}}

[[File:Mahela Jayawardene - batting.jpg|thumb|right|Mahela Jayawardene playing a ''forward defence'']] {{term|term= Forward defence |content= Forward defence (or forward defensive)}} {{defn|defn= A common defensive shot, played with the ''batter's'' weight on the ''front foot'' and a ''straight bat'' held stationary close to the ''pad''. The bat is angled downwards to deflect the ''ball'' into the ground in front of the batter, preventing a ''catch''. Considered a safe way of defending against a ''delivery'' which threatens to hit the ''stumps'', but is unlikely to score any ''runs''.}}

{{term|term= Four |content= Four }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' that reaches the ''boundary'' after touching the ground, which scores four ''runs'' to the batting side.}}

{{term|term= Four wickets |content= Four wickets (also 4WI) }} {{defn|defn= Also ''four-for'' four or more wickets taken by a bowler in an innings, considered a good performance. Mostly used in One Day Internationals and it is a rarer feat in T20 Cricket.}}

{{term|term= Fourth stump }} {{defn|defn= a position or line one stump's width outside the ''off stump'', ''i.e.'' where the wicket's fourth stump would be positioned if it existed. Generally refers to the ''line'' or ''pitch'' of a delivery. A fourth stump line is roughly synonymous with the ''corridor of uncertainty''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportwalk.co/cricket/fourth-stump-outside-the-off-stump/|title=A batsman's nightmare: The fourth stump line|access-date=7 August 2015|date=26 June 2015|publisher=Sportwalk|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150627181508/http://www.sportwalk.co/cricket/fourth-stump-outside-the-off-stump/|archive-date=27 June 2015}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= FOW}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|fall of wicket}}''}}

{{term|term= Free hit |content= Free hit }} {{defn|defn= a penalty given in some forms of cricket when a bowler bowls a 'no-ball'. The bowler must bowl another delivery, and the batter cannot be dismissed by the bowler from that delivery. Between the no-ball and the free hit, the fielders may not change positions (unless the batters changed ends on the no-ball).}}

{{term|term= French cricket |content= French cricket }} {{defn|defn= an informal form of the game, typically played by children. The term "playing French Cricket" can imply that a batter has not attempted to move their feet and looks ungainly because of this.}}

{{term|term= French Cut |content= French Cut (also referred to as a ''Chinese Cut'', ''Surrey Cut'', or ''Harrow Drive'') }} {{defn|defn= term for an unintentionally poorly executed shot which results in an inside ''edge'' where the ball narrowly misses hitting the ''stumps''.<ref name=e121/>}} Such unintentional shots can frequently fool the wicket keeper and may often fortuitously result in runs.

{{term|term= Fritz}} {{defn|defn= To be out stumped following a rebound from the wicketkeeper's pads on to the stumps.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Front foot}} :{{ghat|all opposites of ''back foot''}} {{defn|no=1|defn= (of a ''batter'') in the batting ''stance'', the foot that is closest to the ''bowler'' and furthest from the ''stumps''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= (of a ''shot'') played with the ''batter's'' weight primarily on that foot.}} {{defn|no=3|defn= (of a ''bowler'') during the bowling ''action'', the last foot to contact the ground before the ''ball'' is ''released''.}}

{{term|term= Front foot contact |content= Front foot contact }} {{defn|defn= during the ''bowling action'', the position of the ''bowler'' when their ''front foot'' lands on the ground.}}

{{term|term= Fruit Salad}} {{defn|defn= when a bowler delivers a different type of delivery each time, rather than bowling a constant speed, length and angle. Fruit salad bowling is used most commonly in Twenty20 to prevent batters from getting comfortable.}}

{{term|term= (Full) face of the bat}} {{defn|defn= references the front, or flat side, of the bat, particularly where the '''manufacturer's insignia''' is written. A batter is said to have given a bowler or a delivery faced the ''full face of the bat'' if they have ''middled'' the ball and driven it straight down the wicket, such that the bowler clearly sees the manufacturer's insignia.}}

{{term|term= Full length}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that pitches closer to the ''batter'' than a ball pitching on a ''good length'', but further away than a ''half-volley''.}}

{{term|term= Full pint}} {{defn|defn= when a stump is knocked completely out of the ground by a delivery.}}

{{term|term= Full toss |content= Full toss (also ''full bunger'' in Australia) }} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that reaches the ''batter'' on the full, i.e. without bouncing. Usually considered a bad ''delivery'' to bowl as the ''batter'' has a lot of time to see the ball and play an attacking ''shot''. Also, it does not have a chance to change direction off the ground, making it the ultimate crime for a ''spin'' or ''seam bowler''.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Furniture}} {{defn|defn= another term for the ''stumps''.}}

{{glossary end}}

==G== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Gardening}} {{defn|defn= a ''batter'' prodding at the ''pitch'' with their ''bat'' between ''deliveries'', ostensibly to flatten a bump in the ''pitch''. May be used to inspect features of a deteriorating pitch (e.g. ''footmarks''), or to calm the batter's nerves. Sometimes considered to be time-wasting.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Gate}} {{defn|see ''{{gli|through the gate}}''}}

{{term|term= Genuine number 11}} {{defn|defn= a consistently poor ''batter'', rightfully relegated to the bottom of the ''batting order''.<ref>{{cite news |title=England vs India: Genuine No 11 Jimmy Anderson will treasure memory of his great knock |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/cricket/england-vs-india-genuine-no-11-jimmy-anderson-will-treasure-memory-of-his-great-knock-9602517.html |work=The Independent |date=12 July 2014}}</ref>{{bsn|reason=only uses the term in the headline and doesn't provide a definition|date=October 2025}}}}

{{term|term= Getting one's eye in}} {{defn|defn= a ''batter'' playing low-risk defensive ''shots'' when first ''in'', while they assess the conditions and ''bowlers'', before attempting riskier scoring shots.}}

{{term|term= Give (it) the treatment}} {{defn|defn= of a batter, to hit a poorly bowled ball well, often for a boundary.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cricket.rediff.com/commentary/2018/sep/07/cook-playing-his-final-test/6b8f43f127adc522b307989c875502e3|title=Cook playing his final Test|website=cricket.rediff.com}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Given man}} {{defn|defn= a skilled player given by the stronger team in a ''match'' to the weaker team, with the intention of producing teams with approximately equal strength. This was historically used as a form of handicapping, particularly in Gentlemen v Players matches, to balance the odds for gambling. The practice is now banned at professional level to prevent match fixing, but is occasionally seen in village cricket.{{sfn|Moore|1988|p=21}}}}

{{term|term= Glance}} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' that goes ''fine'' on the ''leg side''. Typically played by ''flicking'' a ''ball'' which is heading for the ''batter''{{'}}s hips or thigh.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Glove}} [[File:Harlow Town CC v Old Victorians CC at Harlow, Essex, England 033.jpg|thumb|right|A ''batter'' wearing batting gloves and a ''wicket-keeper'' wearing wicket-keeping gloves.]] {{defn|no=1|defn= (noun) Batting gloves, hand protection worn by a ''batter'' as part of their ''kit''. Padding is mostly on the outside, to defend against impacts by the ''ball'' while gripping the ''handle'' of the bat.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= (noun) Wicket-keeper's gloves, webbed catching gloves worn by a ''wicket-keeper''. The padding is on the inside, to absorb the impact of a caught ball. No other member of the ''fielding team'' is allowed to use gloves.}} {{defn|no=3|defn= (verb) Touch the ball with a batting glove while the glove is in contact with the ''bat''. In that circumstance, the rules consider the glove to be part of the bat, so the ''batter'' can score ''runs'' or be ''caught'' if they glove the ball.}}

{{term|term= Glovemanship |content= Glovemanship (also glovework) }} {{defn|defn= the skills of ''wicketkeeping'', used when either praising or criticising a performance}}

{{term|term= Golden duck}} {{defn|defn= a dismissal for nought (zero), from the first ''ball'' faced in a batter's innings. ( cf '''Duck''', '''Diamond duck''', '''Platinum duck''' )}}

{{term|term= Golden pair |content= Golden pair (also ''King pair'') }} {{defn|defn= a dismissal for nought (zero) ''runs'' off the first ''ball'' faced in each of a batter's two ''innings'' of a two-innings match (see this list of Pairs in test and first-class cricket).}}

{{term|term= Good length}} {{defn|defn= the ideal place for a stock ''delivery'' to pitch in its trajectory from the ''bowler'' to the ''batter''. It makes the ''batter'' uncertain whether to play a ''front-foot'' or ''back-foot'' ''shot''. A good length differs from ''bowler'' to ''bowler'', based on the type, height and speed of the ''bowler''. The "good length" is not necessarily the best length to bowl, as a bowler may wish to bowl short or full to exploit a batter's weaknesses.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Googly |content= Googly (also ''wrong'un'' or ''bosie'') }} {{defn|defn= a deceptive spinning ''delivery'' by a ''wrist spin'' ''bowler'' which spins the opposite direction to the stock delivery. For a right-hander ''bowler'' and a right-handed ''batter'', a googly will turn from the off side to the leg side. Developed by Bosanquet around 1900.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Gouging}} {{defn|defn= causing intentional damage to the ''pitch'' or ''ball''.}}

{{term|term= Gozza}} {{defn|defn= term in Australian cricket meaning a batter who is out on the first ball they receive. See also ''Golden duck''.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Grade cricket}} {{defn|see ''{{gli|club cricket}}''}}

{{term|term= Grafting}} {{defn|defn= batting defensively with strong emphasis on not getting out, often under difficult conditions.}}

{{term|term= Grass}} {{defn|defn= to ''drop'' a ''catch'', letting the ''ball'' fall onto the grass of the ''field''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Green top}} {{defn|defn= a pitch with an unusually high amount of visible grass, that might be expected to assist the pace bowlers in particular.}}

{{term|term= Grip }} {{defn|defn= the rubber casings used on the handle of the ''bat''; alternatively, how the bowler holds the ball and how the batter holds the bat.}}

{{term|term= Ground|content=Ground}} {{defn|no=1|defn=(noun) A collective term for the ''pitch'', ''field'', ''pavilion'' and any associated amenities, such as seating for spectators. Large grounds with substantial spectator facilities may be referred to as stadiums.}} {{defn|no=2|defn=(verb) Turn and touch the bat onto the ground surface behind the ''popping crease'' after the batter has left the ''crease'' in the action of taking a shot or starting a run; to run the bat in the process of completing a run in order to be ''safe''.}} {{defn|no=3|defn=(noun) The batter's ''safe'' area on the ''pitch''. The batter is 'in their ground' when a part of the body (usually the foot) or the bat is touching the surface behind the ''popping crease''. They have 'left their ground' if they have advanced down the pitch in the action of taking a shot or starting a run. The batter has 'made their ground' if able to ''ground'' their bat or touch the surface behind the ''popping crease'' with a part of the body before a fielder can break the ''wicket'' for a ''run out''.}}

{{term|term= Groundsman (or ''curator'')}} {{defn|defn= a person responsible for maintaining the cricket field and preparing the ''pitch''.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Grubber }} {{defn|defn= a delivery that barely bounces.<ref name=cric/>}} thumb|A batter takes guard {{term|term= (Taking) guard }} {{defn|defn= the ''batter'' aligning their ''bat'' according with a ''stump'' (or between ''stumps'') chosen behind them. Typically, the batter marks the position of the bat on the pitch. The marking(s) give the batter an idea as to where they are standing in relation to the ''stumps''.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{term|term= Gully |content= Gully }} {{defn|defn= a close ''fielder'' near the ''slip fielders'', at an angle to a line between the two sets of stumps of about 100 to 140 degrees.<ref name=barclays/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==H== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Hack}} {{defn|defn= a batter of generally low skill with an excessively aggressive approach to batting, commonly with a preference towards lofted cross bat shots. A poor defensive stance and lack of defensive strokes are also features of a hack. Can also be used for one particular stroke}}

{{term|term= Half century}} {{defn|defn= an individual score of 50 runs or more, but less than 100 (''century''). Reasonably significant landmark for a ''batter'' and more so for the ''lower order'' and the ''tail-enders''.}}

{{term|term= Half-tracker}} {{defn|defn= another term for a ''long hop''. So called because the ball roughly bounces halfway down the pitch.}}

{{term|term= Half-volley}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that bounces just short of the batter so that they can easily strike the ball with an attacking front foot shot such as a ''drive'' or ''glance''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Handled the ball |content= Handled the ball }} {{defn|defn= occurs when a ''batter'' touches the ball with their hands (when they are not gripping the bat) while the ball is still ''live''. No longer a method of dismissal in its own right, but can result in the batter being given ''out''.}}

{{term|term= Harrow drive}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|French cut}}''}}

{{term|term= Hat-trick |content= Hat-trick }} {{defn|defn= a ''bowler'' taking a ''wicket'' off each of three consecutive ''deliveries'' that they bowl in a single match (whether in the same ''over'' or split up in two consecutive ''overs'', or two ''overs'' in two different ''spells'', or even spread across two ''innings'' of a ''test match'' or ''first-class cricket'' game).}}

{{term|term= Hat-trick ball}} {{defn|defn= a delivery bowled after taking two wickets with the previous two deliveries. The captain will usually set a very attacking field for a hat-trick ball, to maximise the chances of the bowler taking a hat-trick. The bowler is said to be ''on a hat-trick'' before they deliver the hat-trick ball.}}

{{term|term= Hawk-Eye}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|ball tracking}}''}}

{{term|term= Heavy Roller }} {{defn|defn= a very heavy cylinder of metal used by the ground staff, to improve a wicket for batting.}}

{{term|term= Helicopter shot }} {{defn|defn= a batting shot played by flicking the ball through the air on the leg side, often to avoid close fielders and attempt to hit a boundary. Well-timed helicopter shots off of fast deliveries can often result in six runs, sometimes toward the cow corner. Helicopter shots are differentiated from slogs and hoicks in that they are somewhat more refined in that they require timing to come off. }}

thumb|upright=1.25|right|Typical cricket helmets in use {{term|term= Helmet | content=Helmet}} {{defn|defn= Protective headgear worn by ''batters'' facing ''pace bowling'' or ''fielders'' located very close to the batter. Cricket helmets consist of a hard padded hemisphere protecting the brain case, a front brim, and a large metal grill over the face and jaw, with gaps smaller than the diameter of the ''ball''.}}

{{term|term= High score }} {{defn|defn= the most runs scored by the batter in a single innings. see also ''Best bowling'' }}

{{term|term= Hip Clip }} {{defn|defn= a trademark shot of Brian Lara involving a flick of the wrist to whip a ball, at hip height, at right angles past the fielder at square leg.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Hit the ball twice |content= Hit the ball twice }} {{defn|defn= A batter is out 'hit the ball twice' if having struck the ball once with their person or bat, they strike the ball a second time with their person or bat (but not a hand ''not'' holding the bat). A batter is not out if the second strike was for the sole purpose of guarding their wicket.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 34.1 |chapter=Out Hit the ball twice |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> A batter may not strike the ball a second time to prevent it from being caught (out 'obstructing the field).<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 37.3 |chapter=Obstructing a ball from being caught |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= Hit wicket |content= Hit wicket }} {{defn|defn= a ''batter'' getting out by dislodging the ''bails'' of the ''wicket'' behind them either with their ''bat'' or body as they try to play the ball or set off for a run.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Hoick}} {{defn|defn= an unrefined ''shot'' played to the ''leg side'' usually across the line of the ball.}}

{{term|term= Hold up an end}} {{defn|defn= A batter who is intentionally restricting their scoring and concentrating on defence while their batting partner scores runs at the other end; or, a bowler who is bowling defensively to restrict runs at their end while their bowling partner tries to take wickets at the other end.}}

{{term|term= Hole out}} {{defn|defn= To be dismissed by being caught, usually referring to a catch from a lofted shot (or attempt thereof) in the outfield or forward from the wicket, rather than being caught behind by the wicketkeeper, in the slips cordon, or a leg trap fielder from edges or gloved balls.}}

{{term|term= Hoodoo}} {{defn|defn= a bowler is said to 'have the hoodoo' on a batter when they have got them out many times in their career. (See ''rabbit II.'')}}

{{term|term= Hook |content= Hook }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'', similar to a ''pull'', but played so that the ball is struck when it is above the ''batter's'' shoulder.}}

{{term|term= Hoop}} {{defn|defn= a particularly large amount of ''swing''.<ref>{{cite news|newspaper=The Telegraph|location=London, England|title=New Zealand v England: Andy Flower blames bowlers' inability to swing the ball for poor series|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/cricket/international/england/9957612/New-Zealand-v-England-Andy-Flower-blames-bowlers-inability-to-swing-the-ball-for-poor-series.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/cricket/international/england/9957612/New-Zealand-v-England-Andy-Flower-blames-bowlers-inability-to-swing-the-ball-for-poor-series.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|date=27 March 2013|access-date=8 August 2015|author=Derek Pringle}}{{cbignore}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Hot Spot |content= Hot Spot }} {{defn|defn= a technology used in television coverage to evaluate snicks and bat-pad catches. The batter is filmed with an infrared camera, and friction caused by the strike of the ball shows up as a white "hot spot" on the picture.}}

{{term|term= Howzat |content= Howzat or How's that? }} {{anchor|howzat?}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|appeal}}''}}

{{term|term= Hundred}} {{defn|no=1|defn= See ''{{gli|century}}''}} {{defn|no=2|defn= 100-ball cricket, a ''limited overs'' format with modified rules, such as each team batting for up to 100 legal balls, to speed up the game for television broadcasters.}} {{defn|no=3|defn= The Hundred, a domestic competition in England that uses the 100-ball format, introduced in 2021.}}

{{term|term= Hutch}} {{defn|defn= the pavilion or dressing room. Non-specialist batters or tail enders can be known as 'rabbits', so when they are given out they return to the hutch.}}

{{glossary end}}

==I== {{glossary}} {{term|term= In}} {{defn|defn= of a ''batter'', presently batting.}}

{{term|term= In/out field}} {{defn|defn= The in/out field is the group of fielders close to the batter or closer to the boundary respectively.}} {{defn|defn= An in/out field is a ''field setting'', usually with 5 close fielders and 3 on the boundary, designed to force batters into errors by trying to deny the opportunity to score singles while saving easy boundaries.}}

{{term|term= Incoming batter}} {{defn|defn= the batter next to come in<!--not a mistake--> ''in the listed batting order''. The incoming batter is the one who is out when a "timed out" occurs.}}

{{term|term= Inswing |content= Inswing or in-swinger {{anchor|in-swinger}} }} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that curves into the ''batter'' in the air from off to leg.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= In-cutter}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that moves into the ''batter'' after hitting the surface.}}

{{term|term= Infield}} {{defn|defn= the region of the field that lies inside the ''30-yard circle'' (27 m) or, in the days before defined circles, the area of the field close to the wicket bounded by an imaginary line through square leg, mid on, mid off and cover point.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Innings |content= Innings }} {{defn|defn= one player's or one team's turn to bat (or bowl). Unlike in baseball, the cricket term "innings" is both singular and plural.}}

{{term|term= Inside edge }} {{defn|defn= The edge of the bat facing the batter's legs. The ball then generally goes on the stumps, legs or at ''Forty-Five''.}}

{{term|term= Inside-out}} {{defn|defn= when a batter opens the chest and plays a ball, usually aggressively and often dancing down the pitch, toward the covers.}}

{{term|term= It's (just) not cricket}} {{defn|defn= An idiomatic expression, objecting to actions that the speaker feels are unsporting, unfair, or against the spirit of the game}} {{glossary end}}

==J== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Jack |content= Jack }} {{defn|defn= a number eleven batter. From the jack playing card, which ranks immediately after the number ten in each suit.}}

{{term|term= Jaffa |content= Jaffa (also ''corker'') {{anchor|corker}} }} {{defn|defn= an exceptionally well bowled, practically unplayable delivery, usually but not always from a fast bowler.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/> }}

{{term|term= Jayadevan's system |content= Jayadevan's system }} {{defn|defn= an unsuccessful proposal for a ''rain rule'', as an alternative to the ''Duckworth-Lewis system''. Has never been used in professional cricket.}}

{{term|term= Jockstrap |content= Jockstrap (also ''jock strap'') }} {{defn|defn= underwear for male cricketers, designed to securely hold a cricket box in place when batting or wicket keeping.}}

{{term|term= Just not cricket}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|it's (just) not cricket}}''}}

{{glossary end}}

==K== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Keeper}} {{defn|defn= see {{gli|wicket-keeper}}}}

{{term|term= Keep wicket}} {{defn|defn= 1. For a wicketkeeper to field.

2. "Keep wickets in hand", which is when a batting team tries to have relatively few of its batters get out.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kartikeya-date-keep-wickets-in-hand-or-go-hard-a-look-at-the-first-25-years-of-odi-history-1187749|title=Keep wickets in hand or go hard? A look at the first 25 years of ODI history|website=ESPNcricinfo}}</ref> Usually done so that more run-scoring risks can be taken near the end of their innings in a limited-overs match, since they will have many batters left and only a few balls left.}}

{{term|term= King pair}} {{defn|defn= see ''Golden pair''.}}

{{term|term= Knock}} {{defn|defn= a batter's innings. A ''batter'' who makes a high score in an ''innings'' can be said to have had a "good knock".}}

{{term|term= Knuckle ball |content= Knuckle ball}} {{defn|defn= A type of delivery where the fast bowler holds the ball on the knuckles of their index and middle finger. A type of slower ball.}}

{{term|term= Kolpak |content= Kolpak }} {{defn|defn= an overseas player who plays in English domestic cricket under the Kolpak ruling.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Kwik cricket |content= Kwik cricket }} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''quick cricket''')}} An informal version of cricket with sped-up rules, specifically designed to introduce children to the sport.}}

{{glossary end}}

==L== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Lappa}} {{defn|defn= The Indian version of the ''hoik''. Comes from the English 'lap', an old term for a stroke somewhere between a pull and a sweep.<ref name=barclays3/> }}

{{term|term= Lap sweep}} {{defn|defn= Also known as a paddle sweep or run sweep, a sweep shot tickled down to fine leg.}}

{{term|term= Laws}} {{defn|defn= The laws of cricket are a set of rules established by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and apply to cricket worldwide. Cricket is one of the few sports for which the governing principles are referred to as 'Laws' rather than as 'Rules' or 'Regulations'. Regulations to supplement or vary the laws may be agreed for particular competitions.}}

{{term|term= LBW}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|leg before wicket}}''}}

{{term|term= Leading edge}} {{defn|defn= The ball hitting the front edge of the ''bat'' as opposed to its face, when playing a ''straight-bat shot''. Often results in an easy ''catch'' for the ''bowler'' or a ''skier'' for someone else.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Leave}} {{defn|defn= The action of the batter not attempting to play at the ball. They may do this by holding the bat above their body. However, there is a clause in the ''LBW'' rules making them more susceptible to getting out this way. A batter leaving the ball may also not claim any ''leg byes''.}}

{{term|term= Left arm }} {{defn|defn= A bowler who bowls the ball with their left hand is, by convention, called a 'left-arm' or 'left arm' bowler (rather than 'left hand' or 'left-handed'). (Contrast "left hand batter".)<ref name=Ashok>Ashok, Kumar. Dph Sports Series Cricket Discovery Publishing House, 1999 {{ISBN|9788171414741}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Left-arm orthodox spin |content= Left-arm orthodox spin }} {{defn|defn= the style of ''spin bowling'' produced by ''left-arm'' ''finger spin''; the left-arm equivalent of ''off spin''.}}

{{term|term= Left-arm unorthodox spin |content= Left-arm unorthodox spin }} {{defn|defn= the style of ''spin bowling'' produced by ''left-arm'' ''wrist spin''; the left-arm equivalent of ''leg spin''. Formerly called ''Chinaman'' bowling, after Ellis Achong, a West Indian of Chinese descent, but that term is now considered derogatory.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Hotten |first1=Jon |title=The Little Yellow Bible gets the treatment |url=https://www.wisden.com/book-review/wisden-cricketers-almanack-2018-book-review |access-date=11 November 2019 |work=Wisden |date=11 April 2018}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Left hand }} {{defn|defn= A batter who bats left-handed is said to be a 'left-hand' bat. (Contrast "left arm bowler".)<ref name="Ashok"/>}}

{{term|term= Leg before wicket |content= Leg before wicket (LBW) {{anchor|leg before wicket|lbw|LBW}} }} {{defn|defn= a way of ''dismissing'' the ''batter''. In brief, the batter is out if, in the opinion of the ''umpire'', the ball hits any part of the batter's body (usually the leg) before hitting or missing the bat and would have gone on to hit the ''stumps''.<ref name=cric/><ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Leg break |content= Leg break }} {{defn|defn= a ''spin bowling'' ''delivery'' which turns from the ''leg side'' to the ''off side'' of a right-handed ''batter''. The ''stock delivery'' of a ''leg spin'' bowler.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Leg bye |content= Leg bye }} {{defn|defn= ''Extras'' taken after a ''delivery'' hits any part of the body of the ''batter'' other than the ''bat'' or the gloved hand that holds the ''bat''. If the batter makes no attempt to play the ball with the bat or evade the ball that hits them, leg byes may not be scored.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Leg cutter |content= Leg cutter }} {{defn|defn= A ''break'' ''delivery'' bowled by a ''fast'' or ''medium-pace'' ''bowler'' with similar action to a ''spin bowler'', but at a faster pace. The ball breaks from the ''leg side'' to the ''off side'' of the ''batter''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Leg glance |content= Leg glance }} {{defn|defn= A delicate shot played at a ball aimed slightly on the ''leg side'', using the bat to flick the ball as it passes the batter, deflecting towards the ''square leg'' or ''fine leg'' area.}}

{{term|term= Leg side |content= Leg side }} {{defn|defn= the half of the field to the rear of the ''batter'' as they take strike (also known as the ''on side'').<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Leg slip |content=Leg slip }} {{defn|defn= a ''fielding'' position equivalent to ''slip'', but on the ''leg side''.}}

{{term|term= Leg spin |content= Leg spin }} {{defn|defn= the style of ''spin bowling'' produced by right-handed ''wrist spin''. So called because the ''stock delivery'' is a ''leg break''. Common ''variations'' include the ''googly'', ''top spinner'', and ''flipper''.}}

{{term|term= Leg theory}} {{defn|defn= A tactic sometimes used by the fielding side. The ''bowler'' aims for a ''line'' on ''leg stump'' and more ''fielders'' than usual are placed on the ''leg side'', particularly short catching positions. This prevents the ''batter'' from playing ''shots'' on the ''off side''. The goal is to slow the scoring and frustrate the batter into an opportunity for a ''catch''. See also ''fast leg theory'' and ''Bodyline''.<ref name=cric/> The opposite of ''off theory''.}}

{{term|term= Leggie }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''leg spin'' bowler }} {{defn|no=2|defn= a ''leg break'' delivery}}

thumb|500px|Cricket ''lengths'' {{term|term= Length}} {{defn|defn= the place along the ''pitch'' where a ''delivery'' bounces (see ''short pitched'', ''good length'', ''half-volley'', ''full toss'').<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Life}} {{defn|defn= a batter being reprieved because of a mistake by the fielding team, through dropping a catch, missing a run-out chance or the wicket-keeper missing a stumping.}}

{{term|term= Light}} {{defn|defn= see ''bad light''}}

{{term|term= Limited overs match}} {{defn|defn= a one-innings match where each side may only face a set number of overs. Another name for one-day cricket.}}

{{term|term= Line |content= Line (also see Line and length) }} {{defn|defn= the deviation of the point along the ''pitch'' where a ''delivery'' bounces from the line from ''wicket-to-wicket'' (to the ''leg side'' or the ''off side'').<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Line and length |content= Line and length bowling }} {{defn|defn= bowling so that a ''delivery'' pitches on a ''good length'' and just outside ''off'' ''stump''. This forces the ''batter'' to play a ''shot'' as the ball may hit the ''stumps''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= List A cricket |content= List A cricket }} {{defn|defn= the ''limited-overs'' equivalent of ''first-class cricket''.}}

{{term|term= Lob bowling |content= Lob bowling }} {{defn|defn= An obsolete form of ''underarm bowling'', in which the ''ball'' was lobbed high in the air, falling back to the ''pitch'' on a steep trajectory. A common ''variation'' aimed to drop the ball directly onto the ''stumps'', without bouncing. Lob bowling was popular in the 19th century but is now illegal.}}

{{term|term= Loft(ed shot)}} {{defn|defn= a type of shot where the ball is hit in the air<ref>{{cite web|title=Lofted shot {{!}} cricket|url=https://www.britannica.com/sports/lofted-shot|access-date=2020-08-30|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Batting – The lofted drive|url=https://cricket.co.za/category/15/Coach-Education/2360/Batting-The-lofted-drive/|access-date=2020-08-30|website=cricket.co.za|archive-date=4 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201004034550/https://cricket.co.za/category/15/Coach-Education/2360/Batting-The-lofted-drive/}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Lolly}} {{defn|defn= a ball that a batter is easily able to hit, or a ball that a fielder is easily able to catch}}

{{term|term= Long hop |content= Long hop }} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that is much too short to be a ''good length'' ''delivery'', but without the sharp lift of a ''bouncer''. Usually considered a bad ''delivery'' to bowl as the ''batter'' has a lot of time to see the ball and play an attacking ''shot''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Long off}} {{defn|defn= a fielding position close the boundary on the off side, located in front of, and relatively close to, the line of the wicket.}}

{{term|term= Long on}} {{defn|defn= a fielding position close the boundary on the leg side, located in front of, and relatively close to, the line of the wicket.}}

{{term|term= Long stop}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|or '''very fine leg'''}} a fielding position on the boundary directly behind the ''wicket-keeper'', to recover any ''byes'' or ''wides'' that evade the keeper. Occasionally seen at ''village cricket'' level but obsolete in professional cricket.}}

{{term|term= Look for two}} {{defn|defn= running a ''single'' with urgency, the batters convey the sense (to each other, to the crowd, to commentators) that they will attempt a second run, though no commitment is expected until after the ''turn''. See ''push'', ''two''.}}

{{term|term= Loop}} {{defn|defn= the curved path of the ball bowled by a ''spinner''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Loosener}} {{defn|defn= a poor ''delivery'' bowled at the start of a ''bowler's'' spell.}}

{{term|term= Lost ball |content= Lost ball }} {{defn|defn= A ''ball'' which cannot be retrieved, due to being lost or otherwise out of reach (e.g. hit into a river or over a fence). The ''umpire'' calls ''dead ball'' to stop play, and the ''batter'' is credited with any runs completed (generally a ''boundary'') or in progress at the time dead ball is called. A replacement ball is selected, preferably a used one in similar condition to the lost ball.}}

{{term|term= Lower order |content= Lower order (colloquially '''the tail''') {{anchor|the tail}} }} {{defn|defn= the ''batters'' who bat at between roughly number 8 and 11 in the ''batting order'' and who may have some skill at batting, but are generally either specialist ''bowlers'' or ''wicket-keepers'' with limited batting ability. Such batters are known as lower order batters or tail-enders.}}

{{term|term= Lunch |content= Lunch }} {{defn|defn= the first of the two intervals taken during a full day's play, which usually occurs at lunchtime at about 12:30&nbsp;pm (local time).}}

{{glossary end}}

==M== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Maiden over |content= Maiden over }} {{defn|defn= an ''over'' in which no ''runs'' are scored off the bat, and no ''wides'' or ''no-balls'' are bowled. Considered a good performance for a ''bowler'', maiden overs are tracked as part of a ''bowling analysis''.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Maker's name}} {{defn|defn= The upper face of the bat, where the manufacturer's logo is normally located. This phrase is sometimes used to describe a batter's technique when playing a straight ''drive'', which gives the opposing bowler full view of the logo e.g. "gave that delivery the maker's name" means the batter played a good drive shot.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Man of the match |content= Man of the match }} {{defn|defn= an award which may be given to the player whose individual performance was considered the most outstanding, or had the greatest impact on the outcome of the game. Usually (but not always) the highest scoring batter or best performing bowler. '''Man of the series''' is the same over a whole series.}}

{{term|term= Manhattan}} {{defn|defn= also called the '''Skyline'''. It is a bar graph of the runs scored off each over in a one-day game, with dots indicating the overs in which wickets fell. The name is alternatively applied to a bar graph showing the number of runs scored in each innings in a batter's career. So called because the bars supposedly resemble the skyscrapers that dominate the skyline of Manhattan.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Mankad |content= Mankad }} {{defn|defn= the running-out by the bowler of a non-striking batter who leaves their crease before the bowler has released the ball. It is named after Vinoo Mankad, an Indian bowler, who controversially used this method in a Test match. This is relatively common in indoor cricket and is noted separately from run outs, though almost unheard of in first-class cricket.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Marillier shot |content= Marillier shot }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|paddle scoop}}''}}

{{term|term= Marylebone Cricket Club |content= Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) }} {{defn|defn= the cricket club that owns Lord's cricket ground in London NW8. It is the custodian of the laws of cricket.<ref name=cric/> }}

{{term|term= Match fixing |content= Match fixing }} {{defn|defn= Illegally arranging the outcome of a ''match'' in advance, such as playing deliberately poorly to ensure a loss. Most commonly fixing is due to bribes or collusion with gamblers who bet on the result, see betting controversies in cricket. Fixing outcomes other than the final result is known as spot fixing. This is not only against the rules of cricket, but often against the law of the country where it is played; some cricketers have gone to jail for their involvement in match fixing scandals.}}

{{term|term= Match referee}} {{defn|defn= an official whose role is to ensure that the spirit of the game is upheld. They have the power to fine players and teams for unethical play.}}

{{term|term= Maximum}} {{defn|defn= see ''six''.}}

{{term|term= Meat of the bat}} {{defn|defn= the thickest part of the bat, from which the most energy is imparted to the ball.}}

{{term|term= Mecca of cricket}} {{defn|defn= this usually refers to the Lord's cricket ground, also known as the Home of Cricket.}}

{{term|term= Medium-pace |content= Medium-pace }} {{defn|defn= a ''bowler'' who bowls slower than a ''pace bowler'', but faster than a ''spin bowler''. Speed is important to the medium-pacer, but they try and defeat the ''batter'' with the movement of the ball, rather than the pace at which it is bowled. Medium-pacers either bowl ''cutters'' or rely on the ball to ''swing'' in the air. They usually bowl at about 55–70 mph (90–110 km/h).}}

{{term|term= Michelle }} {{defn|defn= See ''five-wicket haul''.}}

{{term|term= Middle of the bat}} {{defn|defn= the area of the face of the bat that imparts maximum power to a shot if that part of the bat hits the ball. Also known as the "meat" of the bat. Effectively the same as the ''sweet spot''; however, a shot that has been "middled" usually means one that is hit with great power as well as ''timing''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Middle order}} {{defn|defn= the ''batters'' who bat at between roughly number 5 and 7 in the ''batting order''. Often includes ''all-rounders'' and the ''wicket-keeper''. }}

{{term|term= Mid-off}} {{defn|defn= a fielding position intended to save a run on the off side, located in front of, and relatively close to, the line of the wicket. }}

{{term|term= Mid-on}} {{defn|defn= a fielding position intended to save a run on the leg side, located in front of, and relatively close to, the line of the wicket. }}

{{term|term= Mid-wicket}} {{defn|defn= a fielding position intended to save a run on the leg side, located between mid-on and square leg.}}

{{term|term= Military medium}} {{defn|defn= ''medium-pace'' bowling that lacks the speed to trouble the ''batter''. Often has derogatory overtones, suggesting the bowling is boring, innocuous, or lacking in variety, but can also be a term of praise, suggesting a military regularity and lack of unintended variation. A good military medium ''bowler'' will pitch the ball on the same perfect ''line and length'' for six balls an ''over'', making it very hard for the ''batter'' to score runs.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Milking|content=Milking (or milk the bowling)}} {{defn|defn= Scoring a steady stream of easy ''runs'' at a moderate rate with little risk of getting ''out'', by taking advantage of poor ''bowling'' or gaps in the ''field''. Particularly common against ''spin bowling'' in ''limited overs'' matches, due to the ''circle'' restrictions.<ref name="milking">{{cite news |author1=Kartikeya Date |title=Keep wickets in hand or go hard? A look at the first 25 years of ODI history |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/26920069/keep-wickets-hand-go-hard-look-first-25-years-odi-history |access-date=29 January 2020 |work=ESPNcricinfo |date=10 June 2019 |language=en}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Mine |content= Mine {{anchor|"Mine"}} }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|call}}''}}

{{term|term= Mis-field}} {{defn|defn= a fielder failing to collect the ball cleanly, often fumbling a pick-up or dropping a catch.}}

{{term|term= Mullygrubber}} {{defn|defn= (Australian) see ''{{gli|grubber}}''<ref>{{cite web |title=Mullygrubber |url=https://www.lexico.com/definition/mullygrubber |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200217112647/https://www.lexico.com/definition/mullygrubber |archive-date=17 February 2020 |website=Lexico Dictionaries |access-date=17 February 2020 |language=en}}</ref>}}

{{glossary end}}

==N== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Negative bowling}} {{defn|defn= a persistent ''line'' of bowling down the ''leg-side'' of a ''batter'' to stymie the ''batter'' from scoring (particularly in ''Test matches'').}}

{{term|term= Nelson |content= Nelson }} {{defn|defn= A score of 111, either for a team or for an individual ''batter''. Superstition holds that this score is unlucky and more likely to lead to a ''dismissal'', due to its resemblance to the three ''stumps'' of the ''wicket'' (as if the ''bails'' had been removed). Tradition holds that the bad luck may be averted if spectators stand on one leg. Scores of 222 and 333 are known as double Nelson and triple Nelson respectively; these are sometimes also considered unlucky.<ref name=cric/><ref name=et_terms/>}}

{{term|term= Nervous nineties |content= Nervous nineties }} {{defn|defn= The period of a ''batter''{{'}}s ''innings'' when their score is between 90 and 99. Many players bat nervously in this period because they are worried about getting ''out'' before they reach a ''century''. The fielding captain often sets an ''attacking field'' to increase the psychological pressure. Some players are particularly prone to getting out in the nervous nineties.<ref name=cric/>}}

[[File:Pollock in nets.jpg|thumb|Shaun Pollock in the ''nets'']] {{term|term= Nets}} {{defn|defn= a ''pitch'' surrounded on three sides by netting, used by for practice by ''batters'' and ''bowlers''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Net run rate |content= Net run rate (NRR) {{anchor|NRR}} }} {{defn|defn= In a match, the average run rate scored by a team minus the average run rate scored against them. In a series, a team's NRR is (total runs scored) / (total overs received) – (total runs conceded) / (total overs bowled).<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= New ball |content= New ball}} {{defn|defn= In professional cricket, a new ''ball'' is used at the beginning of each ''innings''. In ''timed matches'', the fielding ''captain'' has the option of taking another new ball after 80 ''overs'' have passed.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 4.4 |chapter=New ball in match of more than one day’s duration |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> A new ball is generally harder and shinier than an old ball, moves faster through the air (favouring ''pace bowling'') and may ''swing'' after a few overs of polishing. In contrast, an old ball will be softer, rougher, and will typically have been polished on one side but not the other, favouring ''reverse swing'' and ''spin bowling''.}}

{{term|term= Nibble}} {{defn|defn= A small amount of movement by the ball off the ''seam''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.alloutcricket.com/cricket/blogs/england-v-india-support-acts-find-their-voice|title=England v India: Support Acts Find Their Voice|author=Jo Harman|date=15 August 2014|access-date=14 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714172114/http://www.alloutcricket.com/cricket/blogs/england-v-india-support-acts-find-their-voice|archive-date=14 July 2015}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Nick}} {{defn|defn= Another term for ''edge'' or ''snick''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Nightwatchman |content= Nightwatchman }} {{defn|defn= (in a ''first-class'' game) a lower order ''batter'' sent in when the light is dimming to play out the remaining overs of the day in order to protect more valuable batters for the next day's play.}}

{{term|term= Nipbacker}} {{defn|defn=A ''delivery'' that ''pitches'' outside the line of ''off stump'' then deviates off the ''seam'', moving towards the ''batter''.<ref name=wisden_dict/> Similar to an ''off cutter'' but using ''seam bowling''. Usually bowled on a ''good length'' or slightly shorter.}}

{{term|term= No}} {{defn|defn= a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', indicating both should return to their ''crease'' without attempting a ''run''. {{cf.}} ''yes'' and ''wait''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= No-ball |content= No-ball }} {{defn|defn= an illegal ''delivery''; the batting side is awarded one ''extra'', the ''bowler'' must deliver another ball in the ''over'', and the ''batter'' cannot be dismissed by the bowler on a no-ball. Most usually a front-foot no-ball, in which the bowler oversteps the popping crease; other reasons include bowling a full toss above waist height (see ''beamer''), ''throwing'', having more than two fielders (excluding the wicketkeeper) behind square on the leg side, or breaking the return crease in the delivery stride.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= No man's land }} {{defn|defn= an area of the field where a fielder cannot save a single, nor stop a boundary. Occasionally used to catch a batter who mistimes a shot.}}

{{term|term= No result|content=No result}} {{defn|defn= the outcome of a ''limited overs match'' in which each team does not face the minimum number of ''overs'' required for a result to be recorded, usually due to a ''rain delay''. This is generally equivalent to a ''draw'', but differs in the recording of some statistics.}}

{{term|term= Non-striker}} {{defn|defn= The ''batter'' who is not ''on strike'', so begins the ''delivery'' at the same end of the ''pitch'' as the ''bowler''.<ref name=ecb/> Their ''partner'' is the ''striker''. The non-striker cannot score ''runs'' or suffer most forms of ''dismissal'', but can be ''run out'' or dismissed for ''obstructing the field''.}}

{{term|term= Nothing shot}} {{defn|defn= An overly tentative ''shot'' by the ''batter'': neither a committed attempt to hit the ''ball'', nor a deliberate ''leave''. This often results in an ''edge'', ''beating the bat'', or ''playing on''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Morgan |first1=James |title=Embarrassed – Day 5 at Mount Maunganui |url=https://www.thefulltoss.com/england-cricket-blog/embarrassed-day-5-at-mount-maunganui/ |access-date=24 January 2020 |work=The Full Toss |date=25 November 2019 |quote=It was a nothing shot – a careless effort. It's amazing how often shots lacking conviction ricochet back onto the stumps.}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= Not out |content= Not out }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''batter'' who is in and has not yet been ''dismissed'', particularly when play has ceased.<ref name=barclays3/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the call of the umpire when turning down an appeal for a wicket.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Nurdle}} {{defn|defn= To score ''runs'', usually in ''singles'', by using low-risk ''shots'' to gently nudge the ''ball'' into vacant areas of the ''field''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==O== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Obstructing the field |content= Obstructing the field }} {{defn|defn= An extremely rare method of ''dismissal''. The ''batter'' is given ''out'' if they wilfully interfere with the ''fielding'', such as blocking a ''run out'' or preventing a fielder from taking a ''catch''. Since 2017 obstructing the field includes the offence of ''handled the ball'', which was previously considered a separate method of dismissal.}}

{{term|term= Occupying the crease }} {{defn|defn= The act of a batter staying ''in'' for a long time, without trying to score many ''runs''. This tires the ''bowler'' and may frustrate the ''fielding'' side in a ''timed match'', but requires skilled defensive batting technique. It is particularly prized among ''opening batters'' or when ''batting for a draw''.}}

{{term|term= ODI}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|One Day International}}''}}

{{term|term= Odds match}} {{defn|defn= a match in which one side has more players than the other. Generally, the extra players were allowed to field as well as bat and so the bowling side had more than 11 fielders.}}

thumb|right|Animation of an ''off break'' delivery {{term|term= Off break |content= Off break }} {{defn|defn= an ''off spin delivery'' which, for a right-arm ''bowler'' and a right-handed ''batter'', will turn from the ''off side'' to the ''leg side'' (usually into the ''batter'').<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Off cutter |content= Off cutter }} {{defn|defn= A ''cutter'' which, for a right-handed ''batter'', turns from the ''off side'' to the ''leg side''. The ''pace bowling'' equivalent of an ''off break''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Off side |content= Off side }} {{defn|defn= the half of the ''pitch'' in front of the ''batter's'' body as they take strike. For a right-handed batter this is the right half of the pitch, looking up the wicket towards the bowler, and the left half for the left-handed batter. The opposite of ''leg side''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Off spin |content= Off spin }} {{defn|defn= the style of ''spin bowling'' produced by right-arm ''finger spin''. So called because the ''stock delivery'' is an ''off break''. Common variations include the ''arm ball'' and ''doosra''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Off the mark}} {{defn|defn= when the first run is scored by a batter, it is said that the batter is off the mark. If a batter gets out without scoring, it is said that the batter failed to get off the mark.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportspundit.com/cricket/terms/309-off-the-mark |title=Off the mark definition |publisher=Sportspundit.com |access-date=2013-08-02}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Off theory |content= Off theory }} {{defn|defn= A tactic sometimes used by the fielding side. The ''bowler'' aims for a ''line'' wide of ''off stump'' and most ''fielders'' are placed on the ''off side''. This prevents the ''batter'' from playing ''shots'' on the ''leg side'', whilst most of the off side is covered by fielders. The goal is to slow the scoring and frustrate the batters into an opportunity for a ''catch''. The opposite of ''leg theory''.}}

{{term|term= Offer the light}} {{defn|defn= Under historical rules, offering the light was the act of the umpires giving the batters the choice of whether to leave the field during times of ''bad light''. Offering the light has disappeared from the game since 2010, the decision of whether to leave the field for bad light is made solely by the umpires.<ref name="light" />}}

{{term|term= Olympic |content= Olympic }} {{defn|defn=Five consecutive ''ducks''. The term alludes to the five interlocking Olympic rings. See also ''Audi''.<ref name="espn 2001-05-30"/><ref name="espn 2012-05-28"/>}}

{{term|term= On side |content= On side }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|leg side}}''. The opposite of ''off side''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= On a length}} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' bowled on a ''good length''.}}

{{term|term= On strike}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat| or '''facing'''}} (of a ''batter'') Located at the opposite end of the ''pitch'' from the ''bowler'' of the current ''delivery'' (or the next delivery, if it is currently ''dead ball''). The batter who is on strike is the ''striker''; their ''partner'' is the ''non-striker''.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= On the [shot name]}} {{defn|defn= used to describe the type of shot that fielders are placed in order to intercept. For example, "three men on the hook" means three fielders who are placed behind square leg to catch the ball if the hook shot is used.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Connor|first1=Jonathan Douglas|last2=Renshaw|first2=Ian|last3=Farrow|first3=Damian|date=2020-06-15|title=Defining cricket batting expertise from the perspective of elite coaches|journal=PLOS ONE|volume=15|issue=6|article-number=e0234802|doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0234802|issn=1932-6203|pmc=7295192|pmid=32542013|bibcode=2020PLoSO..1534802C|doi-access=free}}</ref> "On the drive" is a similar term used for any type of drive, so generally within a straight 'V' in front of the batter.<ref>{{cite web|title=PitchVision – Live Local Matches {{!}} Tips & Techniques {{!}} Articles & Podcasts|url=https://pitchvision.com/|access-date=2020-08-31|website=PitchVision – Advance Cricket Technology {{!}} Cricket Analytics|language=en|archive-date=27 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827023332/https://www.pitchvision.com/}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= On the up}} {{defn|defn= a batter playing a shot, usually a ''drive'', to a ball that is quite short and has already risen to knee height or more as the shot is played.}}

{{term|term= One-day cricket |content= One-day cricket }} {{defn|defn= an abbreviated form of the game, with just one ''innings'' per team, usually with a limited number of ''overs'' and played over one day.}}

{{term|term= One Day International |content= One Day International (ODI) }} {{defn|defn= a match between two national sides limited to 50 overs per innings, played over at most one day.}}

{{term|term= One down}} {{defn|defn= a batter who bats at No. 3 i.e. when the team is "down by one wicket", a crucial position in the team's batting innings.}}

{{term|term= One short}} {{defn|defn= when a ''batter'' fails to make contact with the ground beyond the popping crease, and turns back for an additional ''run''.}}

{{term|term= Opener }} {{defn|no=1|defn= an ''opening batter''}} {{defn|no=2|defn= an ''opening bowler''}}

{{term|term= Opening batter}} {{defn|defn= One of the two ''batters'' who are ''in'' at the start of the ''innings''. They must face the ''opening bowlers'' and ''new ball'', so require good defensive technique to avoid getting ''out'', especially in a ''timed match''. In a ''limited overs match'' an opening batter must also score quickly during the ''power play''.}}

{{term|term= Opening bowler}} {{defn|defn= One of the two ''bowlers'' who begin the ''innings'' using the ''new ball''. They are usually the fastest or most aggressive ''bowlers'' in the side.<ref name="Collins English Dictionary – Definition of opening bowler">{{cite dictionary|url=http://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/opening-bowler|title=Definition of opening bowler|dictionary=Collins English Dictionary|access-date=24 November 2014}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Opposite number}} {{defn|defn= A player on the other team who plays the same role. Often used for captains and wicket keepers.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://wwos.nine.com.au/cricket/lyon-studying-opposite-number-ashwin/dcd7ef76-798d-49cf-b62f-83eb9d5c8756|title=Lyon studying opposite number Ashwin – Nine Wide World of Sports|website=wwos.nine.com.au|date=13 March 2017 }}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Orthodox }} {{defn|no=1|defn= shots played in the accepted "textbook" manner, and batters who play in this manner. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= see {{gli|left-arm orthodox spin}}.}}

{{term|term= Out }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the state of a ''batter'' who has been ''dismissed''. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the word sometimes spoken while raising the index finger by the umpire when answering an appeal for a wicket in the affirmative.}}

{{term|term= Outdipper}} {{defn|defn= a ''dipper'' that curves away from the ''batter'' before pitching.}}

{{term|term= Outright win/loss}} {{defn|defn= a win or loss in a completed match of two innings per team. Used in competitions which award ''first innings points'', as a term to distinguish a one-innings win from a two-innings win.}}

{{term|term= Outside the line}} {{defn|defn= A batsman cannot be out {{gli|leg before wicket}} if the ball pitched outside the line of leg stump. Nor can a batsman be out if the ball hits the batsman outside the line of off stump, unless he/she is offering no stroke.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Outswing |content= Outswing }} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that curves away from the ''batter''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Outfield}} {{defn|defn= the part of the field lying outside the 30-yard (27 m) ''circle'' measured from the centre of the ''pitch'' or, less formally, the part of the pitch furthest from the wickets.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Over |content= Over }} {{defn|defn= the ''delivery'' of six consecutive legal balls by one ''bowler''.<ref name=ecb/> }}

{{term|term= Over rate}} {{defn|defn= the average number of overs bowled per hour.}}

[[File:Mark wood bowling action.jpg|thumb|220px|''Bowler'' Mark Wood delivering ''over the wicket'']] {{term|term= Over the wicket}} {{defn|defn= a right-arm ''bowler'' passing to the left of the non-striker's stumps in their run-up, and vice versa for a left-arm ''bowler''. Compare with ''around the wicket''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Overarm |content= Overarm }} {{defn|defn= the action of bowling with the arm swinging from behind the body over the head, releasing the ball on the down swing without bending the elbow. This type of bowling is the only type normally allowed in all official cricket matches. Compare with ''underarm''.}}

{{term|term= Overpitched delivery}} {{defn|defn= a delivery that is full pitched but not a yorker, bouncing just in front of the batter. Considered a poor delivery, as it easy for the batter to get the ''middle of the bat'' to the ball. An overpitched ball is often a ''half-volley''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Overthrows |content= Overthrows }} {{defn|defn= the scoring of extra ''runs'' due to an errant throw from a fielder. Also known as ''buzzers''. Occasionally used erroneously for any runs scored after a fielder misfields the ball. Also refers to the throw itself as the ball goes far past or "over" the intended target.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==P==<!-- This section is linked from Ian Botham --> {{glossary}} {{term|term= Pace bowling |content= Pace bowling (also ''fast bowling'') }} {{defn|defn= a style of bowling in which the ball is ''delivered'' at high speeds, typically over 90 mph (145 km/h). A pace bowler (or paceman) often will also use ''swing''.}}

thumb|right|''Pads'' used by a ''wicketkeeper'' (left) and a ''batter'' (right) {{term|term= Pads |content= Pads }} {{defn|defn= protective equipment for ''batters'' and ''wicket-keepers'', covering the legs.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Pad away |content= Pad away or pad-play {{anchor|pad-play}} }} {{defn|defn= to intentionally use the pads deflect the ball away from the wicket. Using the pad instead of the bat removes the danger of being caught by close fielders, but would only be used when there is no risk of being dismissed LBW (for example, if the ball pitched on the leg side).<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Paddle sweep |content= Paddle sweep }} {{defn|defn= A very fine sweep, almost just a tickle of the delivery pitched on or outside leg stump.}}

{{term|term= Paddle scoop |content= Paddle scoop }} {{defn|{{ghat|(also known as a '''scoop shot''', '''ramp shot''', '''Dilscoop''' or '''Marillier shot''')}}}} {{defn|defn= A ''shot'' in which the ''batter'' drops on one knee and scoops the ball over their shoulder or head, using the ''bat'' as a ramp to redirect the momentum of the ''ball''. Considered unorthodox and risky, but can result in a ''boundary'' behind the ''wicketkeeper'' or in the ''fine leg'' region.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Pair}} {{defn|defn= a "pair of spectacles" (0–0) or a "pair of ducks". A batter's score of nought (zero) ''runs'' in both ''innings'' of a two-innings match (see this list of Pairs in test and first-class cricket).<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Par score| content=Par score}} {{defn|defn= during the second ''innings'' of a ''limited overs match'', the par score is the ''target'' the ''Duckworth-Lewis method'' calculates if the match were to be halted now (e.g. due to rain). Updated after each ball, the par score can be used to judge whether the chasing team is ahead or behind the ''run rate'' and ''wickets'' they will probably require to win, which is of interest even in uninterrupted matches.}}

{{term|term= Partner }} {{defn|defn= The other ''batter'' who is ''in''. There is always one ''striker'' and one ''non-striker''; the roles switch when an odd number of ''runs'' are scored or at the end of an ''over''.}}

{{term|term= Partnership |content= Partnership }} {{defn|defn= the number of runs scored between a pair of batters before one of them gets dismissed. This also includes the deliveries faced and time taken.}}

{{term|term= Part-time bowler (or part-timer)}} {{defn|defn= a ''specialist batter'' (or even a ''wicketkeeper'') who is not known for ''bowling'', but has adequate skills to occasionally bowl a few overs. Captains use part-timers to provide some variation in their attack, and to subject batters to bowlers they would not have prepared to face.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/men-with-the-golden-arm-top-5-part-time-bowlers-in-world-cricket|title=Men with the golden arm – Top 5 part-time bowlers in world cricket|author=Aaditya Narayan|website=Sportskeeda|date=12 December 2013 }}</ref>}}

{{multiple image | width = thumb | direction = vertical | image1 = Cricket Pavillion (48091497876).jpg | image2 = Lords (5967623947).jpg | footer = Two examples of cricket ''pavilions'': a small pavilion used in ''club cricket'', and the much larger Lord's Pavilion. }} {{term|term= Pavilion |content=Pavilion}} {{defn|defn= a building or grandstand that contains the player's dressing rooms, located adjacent to the ''field''. At larger ''grounds'', the pavilion usually incorporates seating (and other facilities) for members of the home ''club'' to watch the game.}}

{{term|term= Peach}} {{defn|defn= a delivery bowled by a fast bowler considered unplayable, usually a really good delivery that a batter gets out to, or one that is too good that the batters cannot even edge.}}

{{term|term= Pea roller}} {{defn|defn= A now illegal delivery where the ball is rolled along the ground rather than bowled over-arm.}}

{{term|term= Pegs}} {{defn|defn= (slang) the ''stumps''.{{citation needed|date=February 2022}}}}

{{term|term= Perfume ball}} {{defn|defn= a ''bouncer'' on or just outside off-stump that passes within inches of the batter's face. So called because the ball is close enough to the batter's face that they can supposedly smell it.}}

{{term|term= Pfeiffer}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|five-wicket haul}}''}}

{{term|term= Pick}} {{defn|defn= Of a batter, to correctly identify which variation a bowler (often a spin bowler) has delivered.}}

{{term|term= Pick of the bowlers}} {{defn|defn= the bowler who performed the best, whether over the course of an innings or a match.}}

{{term|term= Picket fences}} {{defn|defn= an over in which one run is scored off each delivery. It looks like picket fences 111111, hence the name.}}

{{term|term= Pie Chucker (or Pie Thrower)}} {{defn|defn= A poor bowler, usually of slow to medium pace whose deliveries are flighted so much as to appear similar to a pie in the air. Considered easy to score off by batters – see ''Buffet Bowling''.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Pinch hitter / Slogger |content= Pinch hitter/Slogger }} {{defn|defn= a ''lower order'' ''batter'' promoted up the ''batting order'' to increase the ''run rate''. The term, if not the precise sense, is borrowed from baseball.<ref name=cric/>}}

thumb|right|A ''pink ball'' {{term|term= Pink ball}} {{defn|defn= A type of ''ball'' that is intended to behave like a ''red ball'' but have the visibility of a ''white ball''. Used exclusively in ''day/night'' ''timed matches''. Its construction is identical to the red ball, except greater quantities of a fluorescent pink dye are used, and the ''seams'' are in black thread. Initially trialled in 2009, it was first used in a ''Test match'' in 2015. The properties of pink balls have been debated and continue to evolve as manufacturing techniques are adjusted.}}

{{term|term= pitch |content= Pitch }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the rectangular surface in the centre of the field where most of the action takes place, usually made of earth or clay. It is 22 yards in length.<ref name=cric/> Also known as the "deck", as used in the phrase "hit the deck", which is when a bowler makes the ball bounce more off the pitch.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hit The Deck {{!}} A Cricket Term at Sports Pundit|url=https://www.sportspundit.com/cricket/terms/1190-hit-the-deck|access-date=2020-08-31|website=www.sportspundit.com}}</ref> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= of the ball, to bounce before reaching the batter after delivery. }} {{defn|no=3|defn= the spot where the ball pitches (sense 2).}}

{{term|term= Pitch up |content= Pitch (It) Up {{anchor|Pitch it up}} }} {{defn|defn= to bowl a ''delivery'' on a fuller ''length''.}}

{{term|term= Pitch map}} {{defn|defn= a diagram showing where a number of balls, usually from a particular bowler, have pitched.<ref name="Hawk-eye innovations"/> Compare beehive.}}

{{term|term= Placement}} {{defn|defn= the ball when it is hit such that it bisects or trisects the ''fielders'' placed on the field. The ball usually ends up being a ''four''.}}

{{term|term= Platinum duck}} {{defn|defn= a player dismissed without even facing a ball – most likely by being run out as the non-striker. Also sometimes referred to as a '''Diamond Duck'''.}}

{{term|term= Play and miss}} {{defn|defn= when a batter aims to hit the ball with the bat but does not make contact; a swing and a miss}}

{{term|term= Playing on}} {{defn|defn= for the ''batter'' to hit the ball with their ''bat'' but only succeed in diverting it onto the ''stumps''. The batter is thus out ''bowled''. Also known as "dragging on" or "chopping on"<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Playing time |content= Playing time }} {{defn|defn= the set of rules specifying when the match begins, which ''intervals'' or ''drinks breaks'' occur, how long play can continue etc. These vary widely depending on the type of match (a ''Twenty20'' lasts less than 3 hours, whilst a ''Test match'' takes up to five days) and may be adjusted by prior agreement to account for local climate, the specific competition etc.}}

{{term|term= Plumb}} {{defn|defn= of a dismissal by ''LBW'': indisputable, obvious.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/> Of a wicket, giving true bounce.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Point |content= Point }} {{defn|defn= A ''fielding'' position located ''square'' on the ''off side'', in line with the ''popping crease'' and about halfway to the ''boundary''.}}

{{term|term= Point of release |content= Point of release }} {{defn|defn= the position of the bowler at the moment when the ball is released.}}

{{term|term= Pongo}} {{defn|defn= (used primarily by UK county players) a very high volume of run-making, or batting assault.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Popper}} {{defn|defn= a ball that rises sharply from the pitch when bowled ('pops up').{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Popping crease |content= Popping crease }} {{defn|defn= One of two lines in the field defined as being four feet in front of and parallel to that end's ''bowling crease'' where the wickets are positioned. A batter who does not have either the bat or some part of their body touching the ''ground'' behind the popping crease is considered out of their ''ground'' and is in danger of being dismissed ''run out'' or ''stumped''.}}

{{term|term= Powerplay |content= Powerplay }} {{defn|defn= a block of overs that in One Day Internationals offer a temporary advantage to the batting side.}}

{{term|term= Pro20}} {{defn|defn= South African form of Twenty20 }}

{{term|term= Pro40 |content= Pro40 }} {{defn|defn= a professional ''limited overs'' competition that was played in England from 1969 to 2009, with 40 ''overs'' per side}}

{{term|term= Protected area}} {{defn|defn= An area of the ''pitch'' defined as two feet wide down the middle of the pitch and beginning five feet from each ''popping crease''. A ''bowler'' is not allowed to trespass this area in their ''follow-through'' or the bowler is given a warning. Three such warnings will immediately bar them from bowling for the rest of the ''innings''.}}

{{term|term= Pull |content= Pull }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' played to the ''leg side'' to a ''short-pitched'' ''delivery'', between ''mid-wicket'' and backward square-leg.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Pursuit}} {{defn|defn= Synonym of runchase.}}

{{term|term= Push}} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', a variant of ''yes''. The meaning is the same, except both batters should put in extra effort and be ready to ''turn'' for additional ''run(s)''. May be followed by additional calls of ''no'', ''two'' or ''three''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= Can also refer to a bowler ''pushing the ball through'', meaning they bowl it quicker (usually said of a spinner). See ''darting the ball in''. }}

{{term|term= Put down}} {{defn|defn= 1. Put down the wicket 2. To put down (drop) a catch; often said with the batter as the object i.e. the fielder has put "him" down.<ref>{{cite web|date=2013-12-05|title=Swann catch ensures honours even in 2nd Ashes Test|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/swann-catch-ensures-honours-even-in-2nd-ashes-test/story-W8ofGV2ncxBTnT1BhNwgjO.html|access-date=2020-09-20|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}</ref>}}

{{glossary end}}

==Q== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Quarter seam |content= Quarter seam }} {{defn|defn= a flush join between pieces of leather on the surface of the ''ball'', running at right angles to the main stitched ''seam''}}

{{term|term= Quick}} {{defn|defn= Traditionally, a ''quick bowler'' was one who completed their over in a short space of time. In more recent years, it has been used as a synonym for a ''fast'' or ''pace'' bowler. (Paradoxically, a ''quick bowler'' in the traditional sense was often also a ''slow bowler'', that is, a bowler who delivered slow deliveries. A ''fast'' or ''pace'' bowler was rarely also a ''quick'' bowler in the traditional sense, because they took a longer time to complete an over.)}}

{{term|term= Quick cricket}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|kwik cricket}}''}}

{{term|term= Quick single}} {{defn|defn= When the two batters run very quickly between the wickets to score a run}}

{{term|term= Quota}} {{defn|defn= In a ''limited overs match'', the maximum number of ''overs'' that may be bowled by each ''bowler''. Equal to the total number of overs in the ''innings'' divided by five (rounded up if necessary). For a ''One Day International'' the quota is 10 overs, while for a ''T20'' match the quota is 4 overs.}}

{{term|term= Quotient|content=Quotient (or runs per wicket ratio)}} {{defn|defn= A quantity used as a league table tie-breaker in some ''first class'' tournaments. Defined as the number of runs scored per wicket lost when batting, divided by the number of runs conceded per wicket taken when bowling. The equivalent in ''limited overs'' tournaments is the ''net run rate''.}}

{{glossary end}}

==R== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Ramp shot}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|paddle scoop}}''}}

{{term|term= Rabbit}} {{defn|no=1|defn= A particularly poor ''batter'', who is, invariably, a specialist ''bowler''. While most lower-order batters would be expected to occasionally score some useful runs, a rabbit is expected to be dismissed cheaply almost every time. Another term, ''ferret'', refers to a batter even worse than a rabbit. The term comes from hunting with ferrets where the hunter "sends in a ferret after the rabbits".<ref name=cric/>}} {{defn|no=2|defn= A higher order batter who is out frequently to the same bowler is referred to as that bowler's ''rabbit'' or ''bunny''.}}

{{term|term= Rain delay}} {{defn|defn= A halt in game proceedings due to rain, but not yet a ''wash out''.}}

{{term|term= Rain rule}} {{defn|defn= Any of various methods of determining which team wins a rain-shortened one-day match. The current preferred method is the ''Duckworth–Lewis method''.}}

thumb|right|A ''red ball'' {{term|term= Red ball}} {{defn|defn= The traditional type of ''ball''. Its surface is composed of leather protected by a thin layer of lacquer, both dyed red. Red balls are used in almost all ''timed matches'' and most amateur matches, during which the players wear ''whites''. Red balls are not used in ''day/night matches'', because the dark colour is difficult to see during twilight or under floodlights (a ''pink ball'' can be used instead). Compared to the ''white ball'', red balls are harder wearing, being designed for at least 80 overs of continuous use. Red balls also tend to ''swing'' for longer than white balls.}}

{{term|term= Red cherry}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|cherry}}''}}

{{term|term= Referral}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''review''')}} An invocation of the ''Umpire Decision Review System'', referring the decision to the ''third umpire'' for review.<ref name=ciref>{{cite web|url=http://content-aus.cricinfo.com/rsavaus2009/content/story/392135.html |title=Smith and Ponting get their heads around referrals |publisher=Content-aus.cricinfo.com |access-date=2013-08-02}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Release |content= Release or point of release}} {{defn|defn= The moment in a ''bowling action'' when the ''bowler'' lets go of the ball.}}

{{term|term= Required run rate}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''asking rate''')}} The ''run rate'' needed by the ''batting'' team to win, in the second ''innings'' of a ''limited overs match''. Calculated as the number of ''runs'' required for victory (not a ''tie''), divided by the number of ''overs'' remaining.<ref name=cric/> Often shown on the ''scoreboard'' and updated automatically after each ''delivery''. A high required run rate necessitates more aggressive batting.}}

{{term|term= Reserve day}} {{defn|defn= A vacant day in a touring schedule which can be used to replay or reconvene a match which is ''washed out''. Mostly seen in the latter stages of major ''limited-overs'' tournaments.}}

{{term|term= Rest day}} {{defn|defn= A non-playing day in the middle of a multiple day game. These were once common, but are seldom seen in the modern era.}}

{{term|term= Result |content= Result }} {{defn|defn= The final outcome of a match. Possible results are a win/loss, a ''draw'', or a ''tie''. Alternatively, ''rain delays'' may lead to an outcome of ''no result'', or a ''wash out'' may lead to the match being ''abandoned'' before it begins.}}

{{term|term= Retire |content= Retire }} {{defn|defn= for a ''batter'' to voluntarily leave the field during their ''innings'', usually because of injury. A player who retires through injury/illness ("retired hurt/ill") may return in the same innings at the fall of a wicket, and continue where they left off.<ref name=barclays3/> A player who is uninjured ("retired out") may return only with the opposing captain's consent.}}

{{term|term= Reverse sweep |content= Reverse sweep }} {{defn|defn= a right-handed ''batter'' ''sweeping'' the ball like a left-handed batter and vice versa.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Reverse swing |content= Reverse swing }} {{defn|defn= the art of ''swinging'' the ball contrary to how a conventionally swung ball moves in the air; ''i.e.'' movement away from the rough side. Many theories as to how this may occur. Usually happens with an older ball than conventional swing, but not always, atmospheric conditions and bowler skill also being important factors. It has been espoused that once the 'rough' side becomes extremely rough a similar effect to that of a dimpled golf ball may cause it to move more quickly through the air than the 'shiny' side of the ball. Invented by Pakistani fast bowler Sarfaraz Nawaz and later perfected by the likes of Imran Khan, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis.}}

{{term|term= Review}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|referral}}''}}

{{term|term= Rib tickler}} {{defn|defn= A ball bowled short of a length that bounces up higher than expected and strikes the batter in the midriff (usually the side) and hits several ribs.}}

{{term|term= Right arm }} {{defn|defn= a bowler who bowls the ball with their right hand is, by convention, called a 'right-arm' or 'right arm' bowler (rather than 'right hand' or 'right-handed'). (Contrast "right hand batter".)<ref name="Ashok"/>}}

{{term|term= Right hand }} {{defn|defn= a batter who bats right-handed is a 'right hand' bat. (Contrast "right arm bowler".)<ref name="Ashok"/>}}

{{term|term= Ring field}} {{defn|defn= A field which is set primarily to save singles, consisting of fieldsmen in all or most of the primary positions forward of the wicket, on or about the fielding circle (or where it would be).}}

{{term|term= Road}} {{defn|defn= A very hard and flat pitch, good for batting on. Synonyms such as ''street'', ''highway'', ''etc.'' may sometimes be used in the same context.}}

{{term|term= Rogers}} {{defn|defn= The second XI of a club or county. From the Warwickshire and New Zealand player Roger Twose.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

thumb|right|A ''groundsman'' applies a ''roller'' to the ''pitch'', while another paints the ''popping crease'' {{term|term= Roller }} {{defn|defn= A cylindrical implement used to flatten the ''pitch'' before play or between ''sessions''. Usually there are two rollers available, a heavy roller and a light roller, with the choice of which to use being given to the ''captain'' of the batting side.}}

{{term|term= Rotate the strike}} {{defn|defn= to look to make singles wherever possible, in order to ensure that both batters are continually facing deliveries and making runs. The opposite of ''farming the strike''.}}

{{term|term= Rough}} {{defn|defn= a worn-down section of the pitch, often due to bowlers' footmarks, from which spinners are able to obtain more turn.}}

{{term|term= Round the wicket}} {{defn|defn=see ''{{gli|around the wicket}}''}}

{{term|term= Roundarm bowling |content= Roundarm bowling }} {{defn|defn= the type of bowling action in which the bowler's outstretched arm is perpendicular to their body when they release the ball. Round arm bowling is legal in cricket.}}

{{term|term= Royal Duck}} {{defn|defn= a dismissal for nought (zero), from the first ball faced in the game. }}

{{term|term= Run |content= Run }} {{defn|defn= The basic unit of scoring: the team with the most runs wins the match (with rare exceptions if a ''rain rule'' is required). The two ''batters'' can score a run by both running from one end of the ''pitch'' to the other, ''grounding'' their ''bat'' or foot beyond the ''popping crease'', before the fielding team can recover the ''ball'' and return it for a ''run out''. This usually requires the ''striker'' to play a ''shot'', directing the ball away from the ''fielders'', in which case the run is credited to the striker. Multiple runs can be scored from a single ''delivery'', or by hitting a ''boundary'' (either a ''four'' or a ''six''). The batting team (but not an individual batter) is credited with one or more runs if there are ''extras'' or ''penalty runs''.}}

{{anchor|chase}}{{term|term= Run chase}} {{defn|defn= The act/task of the team batting second (in a ''limited-overs'' match) or batting fourth (in an unlimited overs match), trying to win a match by batting and surpassing the runs accumulated by the opponent.}}

{{term|term= Run out |content= Run out }} {{defn|defn= ''dismissal'' by a member of the fielding side breaking the ''wicket'' while the ''batter'' is outside their ''crease'' making a ''run''.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Run rate |content= Run rate }} {{defn|defn= the average number of ''runs'' scored per ''over''.}}

{{term|term= Run-up |content= Run up {{anchor|Run up}} }} {{defn|defn= see ''approach''.}}

{{term|term= Runner |content= Runner }} {{defn|defn= a player from the batting side who assists an injured ''batter'' by running between the ''wickets''. The runner wears and carry the same equipment, and can be ''run out''.<ref name=barclays3/> Since 2011, runners have not been permitted in international cricket, but can be used at lower grades.<ref>{{cite news | title = Runners abolished, ODI and run-out laws tweaked | work = ESPNcricinfo | date = 27 June 2011 | url = http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci-icc/content/story/520924.html | access-date = 2011-07-25}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Runs per wicket ratio |content= Runs per wicket ratio {{anchor|RPWR}} }} {{defn|defn= See ''quotient''.}}

{{term|term= Runscorer|content= Runscorer or run scorer}} {{defn|defn= a ''batter'' who is prolific at scoring ''runs'', particularly if they hold a record for doing so.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://wisden.com/play-and-win/quizzes/quiz-name-the-leading-test-runscorers-of-the-2000s|title=Quiz! Name the leading Test runscorers of the 2000s|publisher=Wisden|date=17 May 2020|access-date=15 June 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/cricket-black-caps-batsman-ross-taylor-becomes-new-zealands-all-time-leading-test-runscorer/KVIK5MBSL74BH6UM6SAUXRVTHU/|title=Black Caps batsman Ross Taylor becomes New Zealand's all-time leading test runscorer|work=The New Zealand Herald|access-date=15 June 2021|date=6 January 2020|author=Anderson, Niall|location=Sydney, New South Wales, Australia}}</ref>}}

{{glossary end}}

==S== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Safe}} {{defn|defn= The batters are ''safe'' when in their ''ground'', or starting from a position between the ''popping creases'' it have made their ''ground'' before a fielder can break the ''wicket''. }}

{{term|term= Sandshoe crusher}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|toe crusher}}''}}

{{term|term= Sawn off}} {{defn|defn= A batter who has been wrongly or unluckily given out by an umpire.{{citation needed|date=June 2012}} }}

{{term|term= Scoop shot}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|paddle scoop}}''}}

{{multiple image | width = thumb | direction = vertical | image1 = High Beach CC v Stansted CC at High Beach, Essex 125.jpg | image2 = Headingley Cricket Ground- the scoreboard and the spire of St Michael and All Angels (geograph 1996113).jpg | footer = Two examples of ''scoreboards'': a simple hand-operated scoreboard used in ''club cricket'', and a large electronic scoreboard at Headingley Cricket Ground. }} {{term|term= Scoreboard |content= Scoreboard}} {{defn|defn= A large mechanical or electronic display that indicates the current score, controlled by the ''scorer''. A basic scoreboard lists the number of ''runs'' scored, ''wickets'' taken, ''overs'' completed, and (in the second ''innings'' of a ''limited overs match'') the ''target'' required. More sophisticated scoreboards provide far more information, such as individual scores for each ''batter'', the ''bowling analysis'', ''required run rate'', ''par score'' etc.}}

{{term|term= Scorer |content= Scorer }} {{defn|defn= A person officially responsible for recording the scoring and detailed statistics of the game, usually ball-by-ball.}}

{{term|term= Scramble seam}} {{defn|defn= a variation employed in ''{{gli|seam bowling}}'' where the bowler makes the plane of the ball's ''{{gli|seam}}'' tumble, rather than stable at a narrow angle to the direction of the ''{{gli|delivery}}'' (''seam up''), or nearly perpendicular to the direction of the delivery (''cross-seam''). The hope is that the ball will bounce unpredictably depending on whether the ball's seam contacts the ground.}}

{{term|term= Seam }} {{defn|no=1|defn= (noun) the raised stitching running around the circumference of the ball.<ref name=cric/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= (verb) for a ball to deviate off the pitch because it has bounced on its seam.}}

{{term|term= Seam bowling |content= Seam bowling }} {{defn|defn= a bowling style which uses the uneven conditions of the ball – specifically the raised seam – to make it deviate upon bouncing off the ''pitch''. Contrast with ''swing bowling''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Seamer |content= Seamer }} {{defn|defn= a seam bowler}}

{{term|term= Season |content= Season }} {{defn|defn= the period of each year when cricket is played. Varies substantially between countries.}}

{{term|term= Selector}} {{defn|defn= a person who is delegated with the task of choosing players for a cricket team. Typically, the term is used in the context of player selection for national, provincial and other representative teams at the professional levels of the game, where a "panel of selectors" acts under the authority of the relevant national or provincial cricket administrative body.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= SENA}} {{anchor|SENA}} {{defn|defn= The countries South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia, deemed to have unique pitch conditions.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-08 |title=Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar slams SENA countries for double-standards about pitches |url=https://www.wionews.com/cricket/former-india-skipper-sunil-gavaskar-slams-sena-countries-for-double-standards-about-pitches-677785 |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=WION |language=en-us}}</ref> Also sometimes "SANE countries".<ref>{{Cite web |title=How India became a Test cricket powerhouse |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz6w0lygq22o |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=www.bbc.com |date=3 October 2024 |language=en-GB}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Sent in}} {{defn|defn= a team which bats first after losing the ''toss'' is said to have been "sent in" by the opposing captain.<ref>{{cite news|newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/gabba-test-to-be-haunted-by-2002-coin-toss-20131118-2xqiw.html|title=Gabba Test to be haunted by 2002 coin toss|author=Phil Lutton|date=18 November 2013|access-date=18 July 2015}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Series}} {{defn|defn= A set of matches played a few days apart between the same two teams in the same format, but usually at different locations. An international ''tour'' often includes a ''Test'' series, an ''ODI'' series and a ''T20'' series, each of between two and five matches.}}

{{term|term= Session|content=Session}} {{defn|defn= A period of play, from start to lunch, lunch to tea and tea until stumps.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Shelled a Dolly}} {{defn|defn= dropped a really easy catch (Dolly).}}

{{term|term= Shepherd the strike |content= Shepherd the strike (also ''farm the strike'') }} {{defn|defn= of a batter, contrive to receive the majority of the balls bowled, often to protect a weaker batting partner. Typically, involves declining taking ''singles'' early in overs, and trying to take singles late in overs.}}

{{term|term= Shooter}} {{defn|defn= a delivery that skids after pitching (i.e. does not bounce as high as would be expected), usually at a quicker pace, resulting in a batter unable to hit the ball cleanly.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Short}} {{defn|no=1|defn= (of a fielding position) close to the batter, but not so close as ''{{gli|silly}}''; the opposite of ''{{gli|deep}}''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= (of a ''{{gli|delivery}}'') see ''{{gli|short-pitched}}''.}}

{{term|term= Short-pitched}} {{defn|defn= a ''{{gli|delivery}}'' that bounces relatively close to the ''bowler''. The intent is to make the ball bounce well above waist height (a ''bouncer''). A slow or low-bouncing short-pitched ball is known as a ''long hop''.}}

{{term|term= Short of a length |content= Short of a length }} {{defn|defn= describes a ''{{gli|short-pitched}}'' ''delivery'' that is not so ''short'' as a ''{{gli|bouncer}}''.}}

{{term|term= Short run}} {{defn|defn = a would-be ''run'' that does not count because, when turning for an additional run, one of the batters failed to ground some part of their body or bat behind the ''popping crease''.}}

{{term|term= Shot}} {{defn|defn= the act of the ''batter'' hitting the ball with their bat.}}

{{term|term= Shot selection}} {{defn|defn= The choice by the ''batter'' of which ''shot'' (or ''leave'') to attempt against each ''delivery''. A major part of ''batting'' tactics, there are many factors that influence this decision.}}

{{term|term= Short Stop}} {{defn|defn= When the wicket keeper stands upfront, the fielder placed right behind the wicket keeper is called a Short Stop. When the fielder stands outside the 30-yard circle, he is called a Long Stop.{{citation needed|date=February 2016}} }}

{{term|term= Shoulder Arms}} {{defn|defn= Rather than risk playing the ball, the ''batter'' lifts the bat high above their shoulder to keep their bat and hand out of harm's way.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Side on |content= Side on }} {{defn|no=1|defn= A side on bowler has back foot, chest and hips aligned towards the batter at the instant of back foot contact. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= A batter is side on if their hips and shoulders are facing at ninety degrees to the bowler.}}

thumb|right|View along a ''pitch'' showing the ''sight screen'', which provides a plain white background behind the ''bowler'', to help the ''batter'' see a ''red ball'' {{term|term= Sight screen}} {{defn|defn= a large board placed behind the ''bowler'', beyond the ''boundary'', used to provide contrast to the ball, thereby aiding the ''striker'' in seeing the ball when it is delivered. Typically, coloured white to contrast a red ball, or black to contrast a white ball.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Signal |content= Signal}} {{defn|defn= a standardised set of body motions used by the ''umpire'' to indicate decisions to the players and the ''scorer''. Most signals utilise only the position or motion of the arm, but some also involve legs or fingers. For example, tapping one thigh while lifting that foot off the ground indicates ''leg byes'', or holding one arm directly upwards while extending a single finger means ''out''.}}

{{term|term= Silly}} {{defn|defn= a modifier to the names of some fielding positions to denote that they are unusually close to the batter, most often silly mid-off, silly mid-on, silly midwicket and silly point.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Single |content= Single }} {{defn|defn= a ''run'' scored by the batters physically running once only between the ''wickets''.}}

{{term|term= Single wicket |content= Single wicket }} {{defn|defn= A one-vs-one version of cricket, in which the two competitors ''bat'' and ''bowl'' against each other, while neutral participants ''field'' for both. Each ''inning'' consists of a single ''wicket'' and a limited number of ''overs'' (usually two or three). Currently only played informally and rarely seen, the format was once highly popular and played professionally, particularly from 1750 to 1850.}}

{{term|term= Sitter}} {{defn|defn= a very easy ''catch''. A fielder who misses such a catch is said to have 'dropped a sitter'.}}

{{term|term= Six |content= Six (or Sixer) }} {{defn|defn= a shot which passes over or touches the ''boundary'' without having bounced or rolled, so called because it scores six ''runs'' to the batting side.}}

{{term|term= Skiddy}} {{defn|defn= A pace bowler who typically obtains a low-bounce on their delivery is described as ''skiddy''. The opposite is ''slingy''}}

{{term|term= Skier }} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''skyer'''; pronounced {{IPAc-en|s|'|k|ai|ə}} {{respell|SKY|ə}})}} A mistimed ''shot'' hit almost straight up in the air, to the sky. Usually results in the ''batter'' being caught out. Occasionally however the ''fielder'' positions themself perfectly to take the ''catch'' but misses it or drops it. Such an error is considered very embarrassing for the ''fielder''.}}

{{term|term= Skipper}} {{defn|defn= An informal term for the ''captain'', from the nautical skipper. Sometimes shortened to 'skip', particularly as a nickname.}}

{{term|term= Skyline}} {{defn|defn= alternative name for ''Manhattan''.}}

{{term|term= Slash}} {{defn|defn= a cut, but played aggressively or possibly recklessly – a cut (q.v.) being a ''shot'' played ''square'' on the ''off side'' to a ''short-pitched'' ''delivery'' wide of ''off'' ''stump''. So called because the ''batter'' makes a "cutting" motion as they play the ''shot''.}}

{{term|term= Sledging |content= Sledging }} {{defn|defn= verbal exchanges between players on opposing sides. This ranges from banter between friends to verbal abuse or a psychological tactic to gain advantage of the opposition by undermining their confidence or breaking their concentration. Considered in some cricketing countries to be against the spirit of the game, but acceptable in others.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Slice}} {{defn|defn= a kind of ''cut'' ''shot'' played with the bat making an obtuse angle with the batter.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Slider |content= Slider }} {{defn|defn= a wrist spinner's delivery where backspin is put on the ball.}}

{{term|term= Slingy}} {{defn|defn= A pace bowler who typically obtains a high-bounce on their delivery, perhaps because of their unusual height. The opposite is ''skiddy''}}

{{term|term= Slip |content= Slip }} {{defn|defn= a close ''fielder'' positioned behind the ''batter'', close to the ''wicket-keeper'' on the off-side. Also ("in the slips", "at first slip") the positions occupied by such fielders.<ref name=bbc/> Commonly there will be two or three slips in an ''attacking field'' (although there is no limit and a captain may use more), and one or none in a ''defensive field''.<ref name=bbc/>}}

{{term|term= Slip catching cradle |content= Slip catching cradle}} {{defn|defn= a large piece of training equipment, used for practising the quick-reaction ''catches'' needed by a ''fielder'' in the ''slips''.}}

{{term|term= Slips cordon}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|cordon}}''}}

{{term|term= Slog |content= Slog }} {{defn|defn= a powerful ''shot'', in which the ''batter'' hits the ''ball'' high and long in an attempt to reach the ''boundary''. Regarded as a risky shot, it will often result in a ''six'' or a ''four'', but also has a high chance of getting ''out''. Used by batters with more strength than skill, or who need to score runs quickly (see ''death overs'').}}

{{term|term= Slog overs}} {{defn|defn= see ''death overs''.}}

{{term|term= Slog sweep |content= Slog sweep }} {{defn|defn= a type of ''slog'' in which a ''sweep'' ''shot'' hit hard and in the air, over the same ''boundary'' as for a ''hook''. Used exclusively against ''spin bowlers''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Slower ball |content= Slower ball }} {{defn|defn= a medium-pace delivery bowled by a ''fast bowler''. Designed to deceive the batter into playing the ball too early and skying it to a fielder. Has several variations.}}

{{term|term= Slow left armer}} {{defn|defn= a left-arm, ''orthodox'', finger spin ''bowler''; the left-handed equivalent of an off spinner (see ''off spin'').}}

{{term|term= Snick }} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|edge}}''}}

{{term|term= Snickometer |content= Snickometer }} {{defn|defn= a television graphic, also available for use by the ''third umpire'', used to assess on a replay whether the batter has ''snicked'' the ball. The graphic juxtaposes a slow motion replay with a sound oscilloscope, and is used to assess whether a sharp sound was recorded at the same moment as the ball passes the bat. Sometimes shortened to '''snicko'''.}}

{{term|term= Soft hands (batting) |content= Soft hands (batting) (also ''soft bat'')}} {{defn|defn= To bat with soft hands (or play with a soft bat) is to hold the bat loosely or with relaxed hands so that it absorbs the ball's momentum, meaning that the ball does not rebound sharply off it when the shot is played.}}

{{term|term= Soft hands (fielding) |content= Soft hands (fielding)}} {{defn|defn= To catch the ball with soft hands is to relax the hands and follow through the motion of the ball in the air, allowing the ball to hit the hands gently rather than risking it bouncing out of the hands.}}

{{term|term= Specialist }} {{defn|defn= a player selected in the team primarily for a single skill, ''i.e.'' not an ''all-rounder'' or a ''wicket-keeper-batter''. Such players can be referred to as specialist batters, specialist bowlers, or specialist wicketkeepers.}}

{{term|term= Spectacles }} {{defn|defn= another word for a ''pair''. From the appearance of two ''ducks'' on the scorecard as 0–0.}}

{{term|term= Spell }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the number of continuous ''overs'' a ''bowler'' bowls before being relieved.}}

{{term|term= Spider Graph |content= Spider Graph (also ''Wagon Wheel'') }} {{defn|defn= a graphical chart that represents the trajectory of the ball from each scoring stroke, including its direction, distance travelled, and (where the technology allows) elevation and bounces. Each scoring stroke is represented by a coloured line, typically colour-coded by the number of runs from the stroke. The Spider Graph is a more detailed version of the traditional ''Wagon Wheel'' graphic; some commentators use the two terms interchangeably, while others use Wagon Wheel only for the less-detailed version.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Spin bowling |content= Spin bowling }} {{defn|defn= a style of bowling in which a spin ''bowler'' ("spinner") attempts to deceive the ''batter'' by imparting spin on the ball using either their fingers or their wrist. Spin bowling is most effective when the ball is travelling relatively slowly, and so most spinners bowl at a pace between 40 and 55&nbsp;mph.}}

{{term|term= Spirit of cricket |content=Spirit of cricket (or spirit of the game)}} {{defn|defn= A nebulous concept of good conduct, encompassing fair play, sportsmanship, mutual respect and acceptance of the ''umpires''{{'}} decisions. Considered an integral part of the sport. Since 2000 a preamble to the ''Laws of cricket'' instructs all participants to act within the spirit of cricket.}}

{{term|term= Splice }} {{defn|defn= the joint between the handle and the blade of a ''bat''; the weakest part of the bat. If the ball hits the splice it is likely to ''dolly'' up for an easy ''catch''.}}

{{term|term= Square }} {{defn|no=1|defn= of a position on the field, perpendicular to the line of the pitch; the opposite of ''fine''. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the area in the middle of the ground where the ''pitches'' are prepared. }} {{defn|no=3|defn= an imaginary line extending the crease to the boundary on the leg side; it is illegal to have more than two fielders behind square.}}

{{term|term= Square leg }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a fielding position on the on side approximately at right angles to the batter}} {{defn|no=2|defn= a person who fields at that position}}

{{term|term= Square-cut}} {{defn|defn= A ''cut'' shot, played ''square'', i.e. perpendicular to the bowler's delivery.}}

{{term|term= Stance (also ''batting stance'')}} {{defn|defn= the posture of a batter holding their bat when facing a delivery.}}

{{term|term= Stand |content= Stand (noun) }} {{defn|defn= A synonym for partnership.}}

{{term|term= Standing up}} {{defn|defn= position adopted by a Wicket-keeper, close to the stumps, when a slow (or, occasionally, medium pace) bowler is operating.}}

{{term|term= Start}} {{defn|defn= a batter is said to have a start when they successfully avoid being dismissed for very few runs; in Australia, this is generally understood to mean a score of twenty runs. Once a batter survives this initial period and becomes established, batting generally becomes easier as they have settled into a rhythm and have adapted to the playing conditions and are less vulnerable, so they are then expected to convert their starts into big scores.}}

{{term|term= Steaming in}} {{defn|defn= a bowler taking a fast run-up to bowl is said to be steaming in.}}

{{term|term= Sticky dog}} {{defn|defn= a drying wicket that is exceedingly difficult to bat on. Uncommon if not non-existent in recent years due to the routine covering of pitches.}}

{{term|term= Sticky wicket |content= Sticky wicket }} {{defn|defn= a difficult wet ''pitch''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Stock ball}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|stock delivery}}''}}

{{term|term= Stock bowler}} {{defn|defn= a bowler whose role is to restrict scoring rather than to take wickets. Usually called upon to bowl numerous ''overs'' at a miserly ''run rate'' while ''strike bowlers'' rest between ''spells'' or attempt to take wickets from the other end.}}

{{term|term= Stock delivery|content= Stock delivery or stock ball)}} {{defn|defn= A ''bowler's'' standard type of ''delivery''; the one they bowl most frequently.<ref name=cric/> Bowlers usually have a single stock delivery and one or more ''variations''.}}

{{term|term= Stodger}} {{defn|defn= a batter who makes it their job to defend and to score at a mediocre rate. This style is prone to derogatory comments but also compliments on resilience and technique.}}

{{term|term= Stonewaller}} {{defn|defn= An extreme example of a ''blocker''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreedictionary.com/stonewaller| title=Definition of stonewaller |publisher=The Free Online Dictionary, Thesaurus and Encyclopedia| access-date=2 March 2010}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Straight}} {{defn|defn= Close to the imaginary line between the two sets of ''stumps'' (cf. ''wicket-to-wicket''). Used as an adjective, to indicate the direction of a ''shot'', as a modifier to a ''fielding position'', or to describe the ''line'' of a ''delivery''.}}

{{term|term= Straight bat |content= Straight bat }} {{defn|defn= the bat when held vertically, or when swung through a vertical arc}}

{{term|term= Straight up-and-down}} {{defn|defn= pejorative term for a fast- or medium-paced bowler who cannot swing or seam the ball.}}

{{term|term= Stranded}} {{defn|defn= a batter is said to be stranded on their score if they narrowly miss scoring a ''century'' or similar milestone because their team's innings ends, rather than because they were ''dismissed''.}}

{{term|term= Strangled}} {{defn|defn= a form of ''dismissal'' whereby a batter, in trying to play a ''glance'' very ''fine'' to a ''leg-side'' ball, gets an ''inside edge'' which is caught by the ''wicket-keeper''.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Street }} {{defn|defn= a pitch which is easy for batters and difficult for bowlers. Sometimes called a road, highway, and various other synonyms for street.}}

{{term|term= Strike}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|on strike}}''}}

{{term|term= Strike bowler}} {{defn|defn= an attacking bowler whose role is to take wickets rather than to restrict scoring. Usually a ''fast bowler'' or attacking ''spinner'' who bowls in short spells to attacking field settings.}}

{{term|term= Strike rate |content= Strike rate }} {{defn|no=1|defn= (batting) a percentage equal to the number of ''runs'' scored by a ''batter'' divided by the number of balls faced. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= (bowling) the average number of ''deliveries'' bowled before a ''bowler'' takes a ''wicket''.}}

{{term|term= Striker}} {{defn|defn= The ''batter'' who is ''facing'' the current ''delivery''. The striker may attempt a ''shot'', score ''runs'', or suffer any method of ''dismissal''. Their ''partner'' is the ''non-striker'', who is located at the other end of the ''pitch''.}}

{{term|term= Stroke}} {{defn|defn= an attempt by the ''batter'' to play at a ''delivery''.}}

{{term|term= Stump |content= Stump }} {{defn|defn= one of the three vertical posts making up the ''wicket''. Starting from the ''off'' side, they are 'off stump', 'middle stump' and 'leg stump'.<ref name=ecb/> }}

{{term|term= Stumped |content=Stumped }} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''stumping''')}} a method of ''dismissing'' a ''batter'', in which the ''wicketkeeper'' breaks the batter's wicket with the ball while the batter is outside their ''crease'' but has not attempted a ''run'' }}

{{term|term= Stumps }} {{defn|no=1|defn= the plural of ''stump''}} {{defn|no=2|defn= in a ''timed match'' lasting more than one day, the end of a day's play if the match is not yet complete. For example, 'at stumps, Team A were leading by...'. See also ''draw stumps''.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Stump-cam}} {{defn|defn= A small television camera inside middle stump to provide images of play close to the stumps, particularly when a batter is bowled out.<ref name="MSN Tech UK – 2 July 2013 – Cricket tech: Stump-cam">{{cite web|url=http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/cricket-tech-the-technology-behind-the-ashes?page=5|title=Cricket tech: Stump-cam|last=Minihane|first=Joe|date=2 July 2013|work=MSN Tech UK|publisher=MSN|access-date=8 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213104233/http://tech.uk.msn.com/features/cricket-tech-the-technology-behind-the-ashes?page=5|archive-date=13 December 2013}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Substitute |content= Substitute }} {{defn|defn= a player able to replace another on the fielding side. A substitute fielder may carry out normal fielding duties but is not allowed to bat, bowl or keep wicket.}}

{{term|term= Sun ball}} {{defn|defn= A method of bowling where the ball is intentionally bowled at a great height and a sluggish pace. This is done to interrupt the batter's field of vision using the sun's rays, often causing disastrous consequences such as blunt strikes to the head.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Sundry }} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|extra}}''<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Supersub}} {{defn|defn= Under experimental One-Day International rules played between July 2005 and February 2006, the supersub was a substitute player able to come on and replace any player at any point during the game, with the substitute able to take over the substituted player's batting and bowling duties – as distinct from a traditional substitute, who can field but is not permitted to bat, bowl or keep wicket.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://content.cricinfo.com/wc2007/content/story/237248.html|title=ICC to end Supersubs experiment|work=Cricinfo|date=15 February 2006}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Super Over |content= Super Over }} {{defn|defn= A method for breaking a ''tie'' used in some ''limited overs matches''. Each team plays one more ''over'' with nominated ''batters'' (who may already have been ''dismissed'' in the main game), or until two ''wickets'' have been lost. The team that scores the most ''runs'' in their super over wins. The rules vary between competitions if the scores are still tied after the super over, but most commonly a ''boundary'' count is used.}}

{{term|term= Surrey Cut}} {{defn|defn= see ''French Cut''}}

{{term|term= Sweep |content= Sweep }} {{defn|defn= a ''shot'' played to a ''good length'' slow ''delivery''. The ''batter'' gets down on one knee and "sweeps" the ball to the ''leg side''.}}

{{term|term= Sweet spot}} {{defn|defn= the small area on the face of the ''bat'' that gives maximum power for minimum effort when the ball is hit with it. Also known as the "middle" or "meat" of the bat. A shot that is struck with the sweet spot is referred to as being "well timed" (see ''timing'').}}

{{term|term= Swerve}} {{defn|defn= less common term for the ''drift'' used by spin bowlers}}

{{term|term= Swing |content= Swing }} {{defn|defn= a bowling style usually employed by fast and ''medium-pace'' ''bowlers''. The fielding side will polish the ball on one side of the seam only; as the ''innings'' continues, the ball will become worn on one side, but shiny on the other. When the ball is bowled with the seam upright, the air will travel faster over the shiny side than the worn side. This makes the ball swing (curve) in the air. Conventional swing would mean that the ball curves in the air away from the shiny side. (see also ''reverse swing'').<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Swish}} {{defn|defn= a rapid or careless attacking stroke by the batter.}}

{{term|term= Switch hit |content= Switch hit }} {{defn|defn= a shot played by a batter who reverses both their stance and their grip during the bowler's run-up, so that a right-handed batter would play the shot as an orthodox left-hander. The shot was popularised by England batter Kevin Pietersen, prompting some discussion about its impact on the rules, e.g. for lbw decisions in which it is necessary to distinguish between off and leg stumps.}}

{{glossary end}}

==T== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Tail}} {{defn|defn= common colloquialism for the ''lower order'' of a batting line-up.<ref name=bbc/> If the tail ''wags'' it means the lower order has scored significantly well, perhaps enough to salvage a win. A "long tail" is a batting lineup which contains more bowlers than usual, and is considered weaker than normal.}}

{{term|term= Tail-ender |content= Tail-ender }} {{defn|defn= a player who bats towards the end of the ''batting order'', usually a specialist ''bowler'' or ''wicket-keeper'' with relatively poor batting skills.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Tampering }} {{defn|defn= scratching, scuffing, or otherwise unnaturally altering the cricket ball outside of its normal wear and tear. When this is done, it is usually by the fielding team, to give their bowler an edge so that the ball might spin or seam more effectively. This is an illegal act in the game. }}

{{term|term= Tape ball |content= Tape ball }} {{defn|defn= An ersatz cricket ''ball'' produced by wrapping a tennis ball in electrical tape. Common in informal games on the Indian subcontinent.}}

{{term|term= Target}} {{defn|defn= The score that the team batting last has to score to beat their opponents. This is one run more than what the team batting first managed; or, in limited overs cricket, an adjusted value determined by a ''rain rule''.}}

{{term|term= Tea}} {{defn|defn= the second of the two intervals during a full day's play is known as the tea interval, due to its timing at about tea-time. In matches lasting only an afternoon, the tea interval is usually taken between ''innings''.}}

{{term|term= Teesra|content=Teesra}} {{defn|defn=A ''back spin'' delivery by a ''finger spin'' bowler.}}

{{term|term=Ten-wicket match|content=Ten-wicket match}} {{defn|defn=A two-innings match in which a bowler takes ten or more wickets in total.}}

{{term|term= Test cricket |content= Test cricket (also Test match) }} {{defn|defn= The highest level of the sport. Consists of ''timed matches'' that last up to five days, with two ''innings'' per side. Played between senior international teams which have been granted Test status.}}

{{term|term= Textbook shot}} {{defn|defn= A ''shot'' played by the ''batters'' with perfect orthodox technique, exactly as shown in textbooks on batting.}}

{{term|term= Three}} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''delivery'' from which the ''batter'' scored three ''runs''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', indicating that three ''runs'' should be attempted. Usually a follow-up after ''push'' or ''two'', typically during the second ''turn''.}}

{{term|term= Third man}} {{defn|defn= position behind the ''wicket-keeper'' on the ''off-side'', beyond the ''slip'' and ''gully'' areas}}

{{term|term= Third umpire |content= Third umpire }} {{defn|defn= an off-field ''umpire'', equipped with a television monitor, whose assistance the two on-field ''umpires'' can seek when in doubt.}}

{{term|term= Through the gate}} {{defn|defn= The ''ball'' passing the ''batter'' in the gap between their ''bat'' and ''pads''. A well-executed ''forward defence'' leaves no such gap ('shuts the gate'), so if a ''delivery'' passes 'through the gate' it indicates poor ''shot selection'' or defensive technique by the ''batter'', which may result in being ''out'' ''bowled''.}}

{{term|term= Throwing| content=Throwing }} {{defn|defn= of a bowler, an illegal bowling action in which the arm is straightened during the delivery.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.icc-cricket.com/about/cricket/rules-and-regulations/illegal-bowling-actions|title=Illegal bowling actions|website=ICC-Cricket}}</ref> Also known as ''chucking''}}

{{term|term= Tice }} {{defn|defn= Obsolete term for a ''yorker'', used in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Encyclopaedia of Sport & Games |date=1911 |publisher=J. B. Lippincott Company |page=452 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=cpouAQAAIAAJ&q=tice |quote=A "yorker" (or "tice") pitches on, or within six inches of, the popping crease}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Tickle }} {{defn|defn= An ''edge'' to the ''wicket-keeper'' or ''slips''. Alternatively a delicate shot usually played to ''third man'' or ''fine leg''.}}

{{term|term= Tie |content= Tie }} {{defn|defn= The ''result'' if both teams' scores are exactly equal when the match ends, either because the team batting last is ''all out'' (in a ''timed match'') or the allotted overs have been played (in a ''limited overs match''). Not to be confused with a ''draw'', in which neither team wins but the scores are not equal. Ties are extremely rare; there have only been two Tied Tests in >2500 ''Test matches''.}}

{{term|term= Tied down}} {{defn|defn= A batter or batting team having their run-making restricted by the bowling side.}}

{{term|term= Timber}} {{defn|defn= the (wooden) stumps. Achieving a Bowled dismissal is to have "hit the timber", or simply "Timber!".}}

{{term|term= Timed match}} {{defn|defn= a match whose duration is based on a set amount of time rather than a set number of overs. Timed matches usually have a draw as a potential result, in addition to the win/loss or tie that can be achieved in ''limited overs cricket''. All ''first-class cricket'' is currently played under a timed format.}}

{{term|term= Timed out |content= Timed out }} {{defn|defn= A batter is ruled ''timed out'' following the fall of a wicket if they do not occupy the crease within a set time. The new batter is then out just as if they had been bowled, stumped, run out or caught.}}

{{term|term= Timeless match}} {{defn|defn= A historical ''match'' played without a limit on time (''timed match'') or overs (''limited overs match''). The timeless format allowed both teams to complete their full allotted ''innings'', regardless of how many days play were required. In principle this avoided a potential ''draw'', though in practice some timeless matches were drawn by agreement of the ''captains'' because they took too long. Many early ''first-class'' matches were timeless, but their unpredictable schedule and excessive length led to the format being abandoned in the 20th century. At international level, the last Timeless Test was in 1939.}}

{{term|term= Timing}} {{defn|defn= the art of striking the ball so that it hits the bat's ''sweet spot''. A "well-timed" shot imparts great speed to the ball but appears effortless.}}

{{term|term= Toblerone}} {{defn|defn= Lengths of soft sponge, usually printed with advertising, that can be placed over the ''boundary rope''. When in use, the toblerone counts as part of the rope e.g. for determining whether a ''boundary'' has been scored. So-called because its triangular prism shape is similar to that of Toblerone chocolate.{{cn|date=January 2024}}}}

{{term|term= Toe end}} {{defn|defn= The narrow side of the ''bat'', the furthest part away from the ''handle''.}}

{{term|term= Toe-crusher |content= Toe-crusher }} {{defn|defn= A ''yorker'' bowled with ''inswing'', aimed at the batter's toes.}}

{{term|term= Ton}} {{defn|defn= Informal term for a ''century''.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Top edge}} {{defn|defn= See ''{{gli|edge}}''.}}

{{term|term= Top order}} {{defn|defn= the ''batters'' batting in the top 4 in the ''batting order''. These are generally the most skilled batters in the team, equipped with the technique and temperament to continue batting for long periods, often for hours or a whole day.}}

{{term|term= Top spin |content= Top spin }} {{defn|defn= forward rotation on the ball, causing it to increase speed immediately after ''pitching''.<ref name=barclays3/>}}

{{term|term= Toss |content= Toss }} {{defn|defn= the traditional flipping of a coin to determine which captain will have the right to choose whether to bat or field.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.news.com.au/sport/cricket/homeground-advantage-concerns-could-lead-to-icc-abandoning-coin-toss-on-first-morning-of-test-match/news-story/fdf80ed92cc3f9681d426aada9e66682|access-date=8 July 2018|title=Home-ground advantage concerns could lead to ICC abandoning coin toss on first morning of Test match|date=18 May 2018|work=news.com.au}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Tour}} {{defn|defn= An organised itinerary of matches requiring travel away from the team's usual base. Used especially in international cricket for the representative team of one nation playing a series of matches in another nation.<ref name=wisdic3>The Wisden Dictionary of Cricket, Third edition, Michael Rundell, A & C Black, London, 2006</ref>}}

{{term|term= Tour match}} {{defn|defn= any match on a ''tour'' which does not have full international status; most typically matches played as a warm-up between the travelling international team and a local club or composite team.}}

{{term|term= Track}} {{defn|defn= another term for the pitch.}}

{{term|term= Trapped (in front)}} {{defn|defn= ''Dismissed'' ''leg before wicket''}}

{{term|term= Triggered}} {{defn|defn= when the umpire gives a batter out LBW almost immediately with little consideration for any other factor than the ball hitting the pads in front of the stumps. The batter is said to have been "triggered" or "trig'd" because the Umpire has an itchy trigger finger, ready to raise it to give the batter out easily.{{citation needed|date=October 2015}} }}

{{term|term= Trimmer}} {{defn|defn= a high-quality fast bowling delivery, especially one that results in a dismissal of a batter by removing the bails without hitting the stumps<ref name="wisdic3" />}}

{{term|term= Trundler}} {{defn|defn= a reliable, steady ''medium-pace'' ''bowler'' who is not especially good, but is not especially bad either.<ref name=cric/> See also ''military medium''.}}

{{term|term= Turn}} {{defn|no=1|defn= the act of a batter ''grounding'' the bat at the end of a ''run'', changing direction, and preparing to take another run. An additional ''call'' to the ''partner'' is made to specify whether to continue running. Recommended technique is to turn facing the side of the field where the ''ball'' was played, to see whether it has been recovered by the ''fielders'' and judge whether another run is possible. {{cf.}} ''turn blind'', ''turn short'', and ''two''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= the amount a spin ball changes directions – turns/spins – after hitting the pitch. For example, "That delivery turned a lot."}}

{{term|term= Turn blind}} {{defn|defn= a ''turn'' facing the wrong way, i.e. away from the ''ball''. Considered poor technique, because it prevents the ''batter'' seeing the relevant ''fielders'', makes it difficult to determine the appropriate ''call'', and therefore increases the chance of a ''run out''.}}

{{term|term= Turn short}} {{defn|defn= see ''{{gli|short run}}''.}}

{{term|term= Tweaker}} {{defn|defn= An informal (often affectionate) term for a ''spin bowler''.<ref name=wisden_dict/>}}

{{term|term= Twelfth man}} {{defn|defn= Traditionally, the first substitute player who fields when a member of the fielding side is injured. In ''Test matches'', twelve players are named to a team prior to the match, with the final reduction to eleven occurring immediately prior to play commencing on the first day. This gives the captain some flexibility in team selection, dependent on the conditions (e.g. a ''spin bowler'' may be named to the team, but omitted if the captain feels that the ''pitch'' is not suitable for spin bowling). In One Day International games, teams may nominate up to four substitute fielders.<ref name=cric/><ref>{{cite web |title=standard ONE-DAY INTERNATIONAL MATCH playing conditions 4.36 04 APPENDIX 7 Decision Review System (DRS) - Playing Conditions |url=http://icc-live.s3.amazonaws.com/cms/media/about_docs/524ac4ae08b48-04%20Standard%20ODI_2013_19%2009%2013.pdf |access-date=25 June 2023 |quote=1.2.1 Each captain shall nominate 11 players plus a maximum of 4 substitute fielders in writing to the ICC Match Referee before the toss. [...] 1.2.2 Only those nominated as substitute fielders shall be entitled to act as substitute fielders during the match.}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Twenty20 |content= Twenty20 (or T20) {{anchor|T20}} }} {{defn|defn= a form of ''limited overs cricket'' in which each team has one innings with a maximum length of twenty ''overs''.}}

{{term|term= Two}} {{defn|no=1|defn= a ''delivery'' from which the ''batter'' scored two ''runs''.}} {{defn|no=2|defn= a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', indicating that two ''runs'' should be attempted. May be used as a variant of ''yes'', or as a follow-up after ''push'', typically during the ''turn''.}}

{{glossary end}}

==U== {{glossary}} thumb|right|An ''umpire'' signalling a ''dismissal'' {{term|term= Umpire |content= Umpire }} {{defn|defn= An official who enforces the ''laws'' and adjudicates play. One umpire stands behind the ''wicket'' at the ''non-striker's end'', while a second (usually) stands at ''square leg'', with the positions alternating for each ''over''. The two on-field umpires use a system of arm ''signals'' to indicate decisions to the players and the ''scorer''.<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 2 |chapter=The Umpires |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> Televised matches usually also have a ''third umpire'' to adjudicate on replays and the ''umpire decision review system''.}}

{{term|term= Umpire Decision Review System |content= Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS)}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''Decision Review System''', '''DRS''')}}Official system to challenge certain decisions made by an ''umpire''. The ''third umpire'' then reviews the decision using various technological aids, such as slow motion television replays, ''ball tracking'', a ''snickometer'' etc. A ''batter'' may challenge a decision of ''out'', and the ''captain'' of the ''fielding'' side may challenge a ''not out'' decision. Teams are limited in the number of unsuccessful reviews per ''inning''; if they have reached that limit they are permitted no further reviews. The umpires themselves can review ''run out'', ''stumped'', ''caught'' and ''no ball'' decisions, or whether a ''shot'' has scored a ''boundary''. Only available in televised games, because the necessary equipment is provided by the broadcaster.}}

{{term|Umpire's call}} {{defn|Outcome of the ''Umpire Decision Review System'' if the ''third umpire'' finds the evidence inconclusive, or within the stated margin of error. The original ''umpire''{{'}}s decision stands, but the review does not count towards the team limit on unsuccessful reviews.}}

{{term|term= Uncapped}} {{defn|defn= a player who has never played at the international level (see "cap (sense 2)".)}}

{{term|term= Underarm |content= Underarm }} {{defn|defn= the action of bowling with the arm swinging from behind the body in a downswing arc and then releasing the ball on the up swing without bending the elbow. This type of bowling is now illegal in formal cricket, but commonly played in informal types of cricket. Compare with ''overarm''.}}

{{term|term= under-spin |content= Under-spin (also ''back-spin'')}} {{defn|defn= backward rotation on the ball, causing it to decrease speed immediately after ''pitching''.}}

{{term|term= Unorthodox }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a shot played not in the accepted "textbook" manner, often with a degree of improvisation. }} {{defn|no=2|defn= a left arm ''spin'' bowler who spins the ball with their wrist in a similar manner to a right-arm ''leg-spin'' bowler. This imparts spin in the same direction as a right-handed ''off-spin'' bowler. See: Left-arm unorthodox spin.}}

{{term|term= Unplayable delivery}} {{defn|defn= a ball that is impossible for the batter to deal with; used to imply that the batter was out more through the skill of the bowler than through their own error.}}

{{term|term= Upper Cut}} {{defn|defn= A typical shot played against a short ball or bouncer. Here the batter makes a cut above their head and the ball usually goes to the third-man area. First used in International cricket by Sachin Tendulkar}}

{{term|term= Uppish}} {{defn|defn= A shot that gains a risky amount of height, opening up the possibility of the batter being caught.}}

{{glossary end}}

==V== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= V}} {{defn|defn= See ''Vee''.}}

{{term|term= Variation}} {{defn|defn= Any ''delivery'' by the ''bowler'' which is not their ''stock ball''. Used to make the bowling less predictable, which may surprise or deceive the ''batter''.}}

{{term|term= Vee }} {{defn|no=1|defn= an unmarked, loosely defined V-shaped area on the ground at which the batter stands at the apex. The two sides of the "V" go through the mid-off and mid-on regions, similar to the fair area of a baseball field, or the area where fielders "on the drive" are placed. Most shots played into this region are straight-batted shots, which do not involve the risks associated with playing across the line.<ref name=cric/> }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the V-shaped joint between the lower end of the handle and the ''blade'' of the ''bat'' (see also ''splice'').}}

{{term|term= Very fine leg}} {{defn|see ''{{gli|long stop}}''}}

{{term|term= Village}} {{defn| Adjective, roughly equivalent to 'amateurish', indicating that the standard of play or organisation is typical for ''village cricket''. Pejorative if applied to a professional.}}

{{term|term= Village cricket |content= Village cricket }} {{defn| Amateur cricket, particularly in England & Wales, with players typically drawn from a single village or suburb. The level of organisation varies: sometimes games are part of an official league, sometimes only friendly matches. The standard of play is below that of ''club cricket'' and often includes beginners to the sport.}}

{{glossary end}}

==W== [[File:Clarke playing cricket at Birmingham 2009 crop.jpg|thumb|''Batter'' Michael Clarke wearing typical ''whites'']] {{glossary}} {{term|term= Waft}} {{defn|defn= A loose non-committal shot, usually played to a ball pitched short of length and well wide of the off stump.}}

{{term|term= Wag}} {{defn|defn= when the ''tail'' (the ''lower order'' of the batting line-up) scores more runs than it is expected to, it is said to have wagged (as an extension of the animal tail metaphor)}}

{{term|term= Wagon wheel}} {{defn|no=1| a graphic which divides the ''field'' into six sectors (looking like the spoked wheel of a wagon), indicating how many ''runs'' a ''batter'' has scored with ''shots'' into each sector.}} {{defn|no=2| see ''{{gli|spider graph}}''}}

{{term|term= Wait}} {{defn|defn= {{ghat|(or '''waiting''')}} a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'' which defers the decision for a few seconds, before being followed by a call of ''yes'' or ''no''. Used when it is unclear whether a ''fielder'' will ''stop'' the ''ball'' or if it will pass. Neither batter should begin a ''run'', but remain ready to do so (including ''backing up'') until the follow-up call is made.}}

{{term|term= Walk}} {{defn|defn= of a batter, to walk off the pitch, knowing or believing that they are out, rather than waiting for an umpire to give them out (the umpire is required to intervene if they were not about to give an out decision).<ref>{{cite book |title=The Laws of Cricket 2017 Code |edition=3rd |date=2022 |publisher=Marylebone Cricket Club |at=Law 31.7 |chapter=Batter leaving the wicket under a misapprehension |url=https://www.lords.org/getmedia/81bd1d01-c7e7-42f6-ac70-80473a050c32/Laws-of-Cricket-2017-Code-3rd-Edition-2022_1.docx |access-date=23 January 2026}}</ref> Generally considered to be sportsmanlike behaviour, but rarer in international cricket than domestic cricket.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Walking in}} {{defn|defn= fielders will, unless fielding close in, usually "walk in" a few paces just before the bowler bowls in order to be alert if ball is hit in their direction.}}

{{term|term= Walking wicket}} {{defn|defn= a very poor batter, particularly ''tail-end'' batters, who is usually a specialist bowler.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://circleofcricket.com/category/social_scoop/55232/no-one-is-a-walking-wicket-r-ashwin-answers-why-teams-find-it-difficult-to-clean-up-the-tail|title="No one is a walking wicket," R Ashwin answers why teams find it difficult to clean up the tail|website=Circle of Cricket}}</ref> }}

{{term|term= Wash out}} {{defn|defn= a cricket match, or a specific day of a cricket match, which is abandoned with either no play or very little play due to rain.}}

{{term|term= Wearing wicket}} {{defn|defn= On a turf pitch, typically consisting of dry/dead grass on the top, the soil can be loosened because of the players, stepping on it during play, and rough, abrasive patches can form. This means that as the pitch wears, or becomes worn, balls that land in these rough areas will grip the surface more and turn more drastically, thereby becoming more helpful to spin bowling. Uneven bounce can also result.}}

thumb|right|A worn ''white ball'' {{term|term= White ball}} {{defn|defn= A type of ''ball'' introduced during the 20th century to facilitate ''day/night matches'', being easier to see under floodlights. Its construction is very similar to the ''red ball'', but the surface is bleached white, rather than dyed. White balls are used in all professional ''limited overs matches'', during which the players wear a brightly coloured team kit. Compared to the ''red ball'', white balls wear more quickly, generally becoming too worn for use after about 30 ''overs'' (a 50-over innings uses two white balls, usually one from each end). The white ball also provides more ''swing'', but for fewer overs, than the red ball.}}

{{term|term= Whites |content= Whites}} {{defn|defn= predominantly white or cream coloured clothing worn by players during matches with a ''red ball''. Usually consists of long trousers, a short- or long-sleeved polo shirt, and optionally a knitted jumper or sleeveless sweater. Professional ''limited overs'' matches with a ''white ball'' instead use coloured uniforms, known as ''pyjamas''.}}

thumb|Diagram of a ''wicket'' composed of ''stumps'' and ''bails'' – ball shown for scale {{term|term= Wicket |content= Wicket }} {{defn|no=1|defn= a set of ''stumps'' and ''bails''; }} {{defn|no=2|defn= the ''pitch''; or }} {{defn|no=3|defn= the ''dismissal'' of a ''batter''.<ref name=cric/> Numerous phrases exist using this definition, such as "throwing away one's wicket", which means to get out too easily,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/was-determined-not-to-throw-away-my-wicket-rohit-sl-tour/20171214.htm|title=Was determined not to throw away my wicket: Rohit|website=Rediff}}</ref> or "valuing/putting a price on one's wicket", which is largely the opposite<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/rahul-dravid-s-retirement-youngsters-on-the-tips-they-ve-received-from-dravid-556948|title=He taught us to value our wicket|website=ESPNcricinfo}}</ref>}}

{{term|term= Wicket-keeper |content= Wicket-keeper {{anchor|wicket-keeping}} }} {{defn|defn= the player on the fielding side who stands immediately behind the ''batting end'' ''wicket''. A specialist position, used throughout the game. The wicket-keeper is the only player in the fielding side allowed to wear gloves and external leg guards, under Law 40.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Wicket-keeper-batter |content= Wicket-keeper-batter}} {{defn|defn= a ''wicket-keeper'' who is also a very good ''batter'', capable of opening the batting or making good scores in the ''top order''.}}

{{term|term= Wicket maiden}} {{defn|defn= a ''maiden over'' in which the ''bowler'' also dismisses a ''batter''. A ''double wicket maiden'' if two wickets are taken, and so on.<ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Wicket-to-wicket |content= Wicket-to-wicket (or ''stump-to-stump'') }} {{defn|defn= an imaginary line connecting the two ''wickets'', also a style of straight, un-varied bowling.}}

{{term|term=Wickets in hand}} {{defn|defn= The number of ''wickets'' remaining in the ''innings'' for the batting side.<ref name=milking/> For example, a team which has lost four of its ten wickets is said to 'have six wickets in hand'.}}

{{term|term= Wide |content= Wide }} {{defn|defn= a ''delivery'' that passes illegally wide of the ''wicket'', scoring an ''extra'' for the batting side. A wide does not count as one of the six valid deliveries that must be made in each over – an extra ball must be bowled for each wide.<ref name=cric/><ref name=ecb/>}}

{{term|term= Wisden |content= Wisden }} {{defn|defn= Wisden Cricketers' Almanack, or simply Wisden, colloquially the (Yellow) Bible of Cricket, is a cricket reference book published annually since 1864 in the UK. In 1998 an Australian and in 2012 an Indian edition was launched.}}

{{term|term=Women's cricket|content=Women's cricket}} {{defn|defn=Cricket played between teams consisting solely of women. First recorded in 1745, it was administered separately from men's cricket until 2005. There are almost no differences in the rules.}}

{{term|term= Worm}} {{defn|defn= a plot of either the cumulative runs scored, or the progressive run rate achieved by a team (the y-axis) against the over number (x-axis) in limited-overs cricket.}}

thumb|right|A ''bowler'' delivering ''wrist spin'' {{term|term= Wrist spin |content= Wrist spin }} {{defn|defn= a form of ''spin bowling'' in which the ''ball'' is made to rotate by the position or movement of the ''bowler''{{'}}s wrist (contrast with ''finger spin''). For a right-handed bowler this produces ''leg spin'', whereas the same technique by a left-handed bowler produces ''left arm unorthodox spin''. }}

{{term|term= Wrong foot}} {{defn|defn= when the ''bowling foot'' is the ''front foot'' the delivery is said to be bowled off the ''wrong foot''. Such a bowler is said to bowl off the wrong foot.}}

{{term|term= Wrong footed}} {{defn|defn= when the batter is initially moving either back or forward to a delivery and then has to suddenly change which foot they use (back or front), they are said to have been wrong-footed. Usually applies to spin bowling.}}

{{term|term= Wrong 'un}} {{defn|defn= another name for a ''googly''; most common in Australia.<ref name=cric/><ref name=bbc/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==Y== {{glossary}}

{{term|term= Yes}} {{defn|defn= a ''call'' by a ''batter'' to their ''partner'', indicating both should attempt a ''run''. {{cf.}} ''no'' and ''wait''. Variants of the yes call include ''push'', ''two'' and ''three''.}}

{{term|term= Yips |content= (The) Yips }} {{defn|defn= The yips are occasionally experienced by ''bowlers'' suffering from a loss of confidence. A psychological condition whereby the ''bowler'' is unable to sufficiently relax when delivering the ''ball'' – often holding the ball too long before release, losing flight, turn and accuracy in the process. Bowlers have been known to suffer from the yips for as little as a few overs, up to the course of an entire season or more.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{term|term= Yorker |content= Yorker }} {{defn|defn= a (usually fast) ''delivery'' that is pitched very close to the ''batter''. The intent is for it to pitch exactly underneath their ''bat'' or on their toes, in the ''block hole''. A perfectly pitched fast yorker is very difficult for a batter to play; however a poorly delivered yorker can turn into a ''half-volley'' (too short) or a ''full toss'' (too full).<ref name=cric/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==Z== {{glossary}} {{term|term= Zooter |content=Zooter or Zoota {{anchor|Zoota}} }} {{defn|defn= a variation of the flipper bowled by a ''leg-break'' bowler. Typically, 'Zoots' along the ground without much bounce. This ball is possibly a myth made up by Shane Warne to create confusion amongst opposition sides.<ref name=cric/>}}

{{glossary end}}

==Notes== {{reflist}}

==References== {{more footnotes needed|date=February 2020}} {{commons|cricket}} {{Portal|Cricket}} '''Printed sources:''' * {{cite book |first=Rob |last=Eastaway |author-link=Rob Eastaway |title=What is a Googly? |publisher=Robson Books |year=1992 |edition=first}} * Booth, Lawrence ''Arm-ball to Zooter. A sideways look at the language of cricket'', pub. 2006, Penguin. {{ISBN|0-14-051581-X}} * {{cite book |last=Moore |first=Dudley |year=1988 |title=The History of Kent County Cricket Club |publisher=Christopher Helm |location=London |isbn=978-07-47022-09-1}} * Rundell, Michael ''The Wisden Dictionary of Cricket'', Third edition, A & C Black, London, 2006. {{ISBN|0-7136-7915-8}} * Piesse, Ken ''the Extraordinary Book of Australian Cricket'', Penguin, Australia.

'''Websites:''' * [http://content-usa.cricinfo.com/ci/content/story/239756.html ''A glossary of cricket terms''] from CricInfo * [https://web.archive.org/web/20080528033119/http://static.ecb.co.uk/files/teacher-task-cards-glossary-of-cricket-terms-817.pdf ''Glossary of cricket terms''] from the England and Wales Cricket Board * [https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cricket/skills/6100344.stm Cricket Academy – Glossary] from BBC News * [http://static.cricinfo.com/db/ABOUT_CRICKET/fielding-positions.pdf "fielding positions"] from CricInfo {{compact ToC|top=yes|notesfirst=yes|refs=yes}}

{{Glossaries of sports}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Glossary of Cricket Terms}} Category:Cricket Terms Category:Cricket terminology Cricket Category:Wikipedia glossaries using description lists