In modern cricket, it’s rare for a ball to bounce more than once before reaching the batter. If it does, it’s considered a no-ball under the laws of the game.
Matches can proceed without bails if both umpires agree, as per Law 8.5. In such cases, Law 29.4 allows umpires to determine whether the wicket has been struck and dismiss the batter accordingly.
A batter can be dismissed if they return the ball to a fielder without their consent. Though it may seem harmless, this action is against the rules.
If a shot strikes an obstruction in the air, the ball is declared dead. No runs can be scored, and the batter cannot be dismissed on such a delivery.
If a fielder intentionally kicks the ball over the boundary, the batting side is awarded a minimum of four runs. While accidental kicks happen, deliberate actions are penalised.
Fielders pretending to have the ball to mislead batters and prevent runs are penalised under this rule. The batting side is awarded five penalty runs to maintain fairness.
Under Law 34, a batter is out if they hit the ball twice unless it’s to protect their stumps or with prior consent to return the ball to a fielder.
Fielders are prohibited from moving if their shadow falls on the pitch until the batter has played their shot or the ball reaches them. This ensures the batter isn’t distracted.
A hat-trick, achieved by taking three wickets in three consecutive deliveries, can span multiple overs, innings, or even matches.
According to Law 21.4, if a bowler throws the ball toward the striker’s end during their delivery stride, it is ruled a no-ball, ensuring fair play during the delivery.