Free Hit in Cricket
What a free hit is in cricket, which no-balls trigger it, how it differs across formats, and what fielding restrictions apply during a free-hit delivery.
What Is a Free Hit?
A free hit is a delivery on which the batting side faces no risk of dismissal (except run out). It is awarded on the following delivery after a no-ball caused by a foot fault (front-foot or back-foot no-ball). The batter faces a delivery that cannot result in their dismissal by most modes.
Which No-Balls Trigger a Free Hit?
- Front-foot no-ball (bowler's front foot beyond the popping crease)
- Back-foot no-ball (bowler's back foot touching or outside the return crease)
- Free hit does NOT apply for other no-balls (dangerous delivery, ball height, etc.)
Fielding Restrictions During a Free Hit
The field must remain in the same configuration as for the no-ball that triggered the free hit. The fielding side cannot change their field placement between the no-ball and the free hit delivery, except for a change in striker.
Modes of Dismissal on a Free Hit
| Mode of Dismissal | Possible on Free Hit? |
|---|---|
| Bowled | No |
| LBW | No |
| Caught | No |
| Stumped | No |
| Hit Wicket | No |
| Run Out | Yes |
| Obstructed the Field | Yes |
| Hit the Ball Twice | Yes |
Free Hit Across Formats
In T20 Internationals and ODIs, the free hit from foot-fault no-balls has been in place since the mid-2000s. The law was extended to Test cricket in 2022, meaning Tests now also award free hits for foot-fault no-balls — aligning the formats.
Free Hit Scenario
The bowler oversteps. The umpire signals No Ball. Next delivery, the umpire circles their arm to signal Free Hit. The batter steps onto the back foot and pulls to midwicket. The ball goes for four — all runs count, and the batter cannot be given out caught.
Frequently asked questions
Can a batter be caught out on a free hit?
No. A batter cannot be dismissed caught on a free hit delivery. The only dismissals possible are Run Out, Obstructed the Field, and Hit the Ball Twice.
Are free hits awarded in Test cricket?
Yes, since 2022. The ICC extended the free hit rule for foot-fault no-balls to Test cricket, aligning it with limited-overs formats.