Free Hit in Cricket Explained
What is a free hit in cricket, when is it awarded, what shots can a batter play, and can a batter be dismissed off a free hit? Full rules explained.
A free hit is a special delivery in T20 and ODI cricket that follows a front-foot no-ball. On a free hit, the batter can only be dismissed by run out — all other modes of dismissal are invalid, giving the batter an opportunity to play an aggressive shot with minimal risk.
When Is a Free Hit Awarded?
A free hit is awarded immediately after a front-foot no-ball — when the bowler's front foot lands fully beyond the popping crease. The umpire signals the free hit by rotating one arm in a circle. The free hit applies only to the very next delivery bowled, whether the batter scores runs off the no-ball or not.
Rules of the Free Hit
- The batter can only be dismissed by run out on a free hit delivery.
- The fielding team cannot change their fielding positions between the no-ball and the free hit, except for an injury or if a wicket falls (none can on a free hit).
- Runs scored off the free hit count normally.
- If the free hit itself is also a no-ball, another free hit follows.
- If the ball goes to the boundary off the free hit, it counts as 4 or 6 runs as normal.
Free Hits in Test Cricket
Free hits do not apply in Test cricket. In Tests, a no-ball adds 1 run to extras and must be rebowled, but there is no free hit delivery. This is one of the few rules that differs significantly between Test and limited-overs cricket formats.
Tactical Implications
The free hit is one of the most exciting moments in T20 cricket. Batters typically attempt a maximum shot — aiming for a six with no risk of being bowled or caught. The fielding team cannot move to set a defensive field, so the batter knows exactly where the gaps are. Front-foot no-balls are therefore extremely costly in T20 cricket — they concede 1 run plus give the batter a risk-free power delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What is a free hit in cricket?
A free hit is a delivery following a front-foot no-ball in T20 or ODI cricket on which the batter cannot be dismissed except by run out. The umpire signals it by rotating one arm in a circle. It gives the batter a chance to play aggressively with only the run-out mode of dismissal in play.
Can you be caught out on a free hit?
No — a batter cannot be dismissed caught on a free hit delivery. The only valid mode of dismissal on a free hit is run out. This means the batter can attempt a maximum shot knowing the only way they can be out is if they attempt a run and are sent back short of the crease.
Can you be stumped on a free hit?
No — stumped is not a valid dismissal on a free hit in limited-overs cricket. Only run out can dismiss a batter off a free hit delivery.
Does the fielding team get to change the field for a free hit?
No — fielders cannot be moved between the no-ball and the free hit delivery. They must stay in exactly the same positions, which gives the batter a significant advantage since they know exactly where all the fielders are.