White Ball in Cricket

The white ball use in limited overs cricket, is made of similar materials to the red ball, typically leather. But it has a different color dye applied to it. The white ball is also slightly harder and more durable to withstand the rigors of limited overs cricket. which tends to be more aggressive and fast-pace compare to Test cricket.

Clarity of white ball

in limited overs cricket matches, a white ball is use instead of the traditional red ball. The white ball is more visible under floodlights and on television broadcasts. While making it easier for players, umpires, and viewers to track its movement during the game.

Use of white ball in limited overs cricket

Limited overs cricket formats, such as One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty-20 Internationals (T-20s), typically use the white ball. This is because these matches are play during the day and often extend into the evening. Requiring a ball that can be seen clearly in different lighting conditions.

Comparison of red ball and white ball in cricket

It’s worth noting that in Test cricket, which is play over five days. A red ball is still use to provide better visibility and durability over the course of a longer match. White-ball cricket refers to the limited overs format of the game, including One Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty-20 Internationals (T20s). Due to the nature of shorter formate games.

Rules of white ball in cricket

Here are some key rules specific to white-ball cricket: These are some general rules that are specific to white-ball cricket formats. These rules are not the end to the white ball cricket there is always space to create laws like in the game of cricket. However, it’s important to note that specific tournaments and cricket boards may have slight variations in rules and playing conditions.

• Overs
• Power-play
• Fielding restrictions
• No balls and wide
• Free Hits
• Power Hitting
• Tied matches

Overs:

In white-ball cricket, each team is typically restricted to a specific number of overs. In ODIs, each team gets 50 overs to bat and bowl, while in T-20s, each team gets 20 overs.

Power-play:

The batting team has the option to choose a power-play, which is an initial period of overs. where fielding restrictions are in place. In ODIs, the power-play consists of 10 overs, while in T-20s, it is generally 6 overs.

Fielding restrictions:

During the power-play and in the subsequent overs, there are fielding restrictions in place. Typically, only a certain number of fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. which encourages aggressive batting.

No-balls and wide:

If a bowler delivers a ball that is deemed a no-ball or a wide. the batting team is awarded an extra run, and the delivery is replayed.

Free hits:

If a bowler delivers a no-ball (overstepping the front crease), the subsequent delivery is a “free hit.” This means that the batsman cannot dismiss except through a run-out. And the batting team can only score runs from this delivery.

Power hitting:

Limited overs cricket is known for its aggressive batting approach. Batsmen often try to score quickly and hit boundaries frequently to accumulate runs at a fast pace.

Fielding restrictions:

In the initial overs, only a certain number of fielders are allowed outside the 30-yard circle. While the culture of promoting aggressive batting and high-scoring matches.

Tied matches:

If the scores of both teams are tied at the end of the allocated overs. A super over or a tiebreaker is played to determine the winner. Each team gets one over to bat, and the team that scores the most runs in the super over wins the match.

Summary

It is use in limited overs cricket precisely because it is more visible and easier to judge compare to the traditional red ball. The white color of the ball stands out against the playing surface, making it easier for players, umpires, and spectators. To see its trajectory and movement during the game.

Overall the high visibility of the white ball is particularly advantageous in limited overs. The matches play under floodlights or in artificial lighting conditions, It helps players to track the ball’s path. While batting, bowling, or fielding, allowing for better gameplay and decision-making.

Additionally, the white ball is more visible on television broadcasts. Ensuring that viewers can follow the action more easily, especially in day-night matches or when the ball is hit high into the air.