Fielding restrictions (cricket)

In the sport of cricket, different fielding restrictions are imposed depending on the type of match. They are used to discourage certain bowling tactics, or to encourage the batsmen to play big shots, enabling them to hit 4s and 6s. Each team has 9 fielders other than the wicket-keeper and bowler. The captain decides the fielding positions usually after consulting with the bowler.

In Test cricket matches, the fielding restrictions are relaxed as compared to a One Day International. A circle of radius 30 yards (27m) measured from the centre of the pitch divides the infield from the outfield. A 15 yard circle (13.7 m) radius drawn from where the batsman stands encompasses an area known as the "close infield."

All forms

In all forms of cricket, only two fielders are allowed in the quadrant between the fielding positions of "square leg" and "long stop". This is to prevent the outlawed and controversial bodyline tactics from being used.

One day cricket only

Various rules concerning have applied during the history of one day cricket, with the aim of encouraging the batsman to play shots and make the game faster and more exciting. The current rules applying to one day internationals were first introduced as trial rules in July 2005, and are also used for some other limited overs tournaments.

During the first 10 overs of a 50 over innings a maximum of 2 fielders are allowed to be deployed in the outfield. A minimum of 2 fielders (other than the bowler and wicket-keeper) have to be deployed in the close infield. If the number of overs in the innings is restricted to less than 24, the length of the fielding restrictions is reduced to 8 or 9 overs.

The restriction of having a maximum of two fielders in the outfield is applied for a further two blocks of 5 overs, with the timing of these blocks decided by the captain of the fielding side. These 5 over spells are called Powerplay 2 and Powerplay 3 and may be shortened if the length of the innings is restricted. (Powerplay 1 is the first block of 10). Powerplays were first encountered in the One Day International between England and Australia on 7 July 2005.

For the rest of the innings, a more generous maximum of five fielders in the outfield applies.

Twenty20

The number of players in the outfield area is the same. But the restriction lasts from six of twenty overs.