What Is a No Ball in Cricket? How Many Types of No Balls Are There?

A no ball is one of the most important rules in cricket, and it can completely shift the momentum of a match. Whether you’re a beginner or a regular fan, understanding what is a no ball and its different types helps you follow the game more clearly. One mistake from the bowler can give the batter a big advantage, including a free hit.

What Is a No Ball in Cricket?

Simple Definition

A no ball is an illegal delivery bowled by the bowler that breaks the rules of cricket. When a no ball is called, the batting side receives an extra run and additional advantages.

Penalties of a No Ball (Extra Run + Free Hit)

• Batting team gets 1 extra run
• The next ball becomes a Free Hit
• On a Free Hit, the batter cannot be dismissed (except run-out)
• Pressure increases on the bowler
• Field changes for the Free Hit are also restricted

Types of No Balls in Cricket

Front-Foot No Ball

Occurs when the bowler’s front foot lands beyond the popping crease while delivering the ball.

Back-Foot No Ball

If the bowler’s back foot touches or crosses the return crease, it becomes a back-foot no ball.

High Full Toss No Ball

A ball delivered above the waist height without bouncing is called a high full toss no ball.

Waist-High Ball No Ball

Any dangerous waist-high delivery—especially from fast bowlers—can be called a no ball for player safety.

Dangerous Bowling No Ball

If a bowler repeatedly bowls short-pitched balls that threaten the batter’s safety, umpires declare it a dangerous bowling no ball.

Fielding Restrictions No Ball

Given when:

• A fielder is standing in an illegal position
• Too many fielders are outside the inner circle (in limited overs)
• The wicketkeeper moves ahead of the stumps before the ball is bowled

Umpire Signal for No Ball

The umpire signals a no ball by extending one arm horizontally at shoulder height.

Example

No Ball Type	When It Happens	Penalty
Front-foot no ball	Bowler oversteps popping crease	1 run + Free Hit
High full toss	Ball reaches batter above waist	1 run + Free Hit
Dangerous bowling	Risky, harmful deliveries	1 run + warning
Fielding restrictions	Illegal fielder placement	1 run + Free Hit
Back-foot no ball	Back foot crosses return crease	1 run + Free Hit

Conclusion

Now you clearly understand what is a no ball, why it happens, and how many types of no balls exist in cricket. A single no ball can change the direction of a match by giving the batter extra runs and a free hit, making it a crucial part of cricket rules.

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