Cricket Free Hit Rules: What Is a Free Hit and When Does It Apply?
Learn the free hit rule in cricket — when a free hit is awarded, what can dismiss a batsman on a free hit, fielding restrictions, and the history of the free hit rule.
The free hit is one of the most exciting moments in T20 and ODI cricket. After a front-foot no-ball (and some other no-ball types), the next delivery is a free hit — the batsman can swing freely knowing they cannot be dismissed by most methods. Understanding when free hits apply and what rules govern them is essential for cricket fans.
What Is a Free Hit?
A free hit is a delivery from which the batsman can only be dismissed in limited ways — most prominently, a run-out. It is awarded automatically after a no-ball in T20 and ODI cricket. The free hit does not apply in Test cricket.
When Is a Free Hit Given?
- After a front-foot no-ball — the most common trigger
- After any other no-ball that is a front-foot or back-foot overstepping violation
- Note: Not all no-balls trigger a free hit — a no-ball for having too many fielders outside the circle does NOT automatically produce a free hit (competition-rule dependent)
- In T20 cricket: if the free hit ball is also a wide, the free hit carries over to the next legitimate delivery
The Free Hit Signal
When a free hit is awarded, the square-leg umpire raises one arm and rotates it in a circular motion — this signal to the batsmen, fielders, and crowd confirms that the next delivery is a free hit. The scoreboard and broadcast overlay typically also show 'FREE HIT' prominently.
How Can a Batsman Be Dismissed on a Free Hit?
| Dismissal Type | Possible on Free Hit? |
|---|---|
| Bowled | No |
| Caught | No |
| LBW | No |
| Stumped | No |
| Hit Wicket | No |
| Run Out | Yes — the most common free hit dismissal |
| Obstructing the Field | Yes |
| Hit the Ball Twice | Yes |
| Timed Out | Theoretically yes, independent of delivery type |
Fielding Restrictions on a Free Hit
On a free hit delivery, the fielding captain cannot change their fielding positions from the previous delivery — with one exception: if a run-out opportunity exists, the captain can position a fielder to cover the run-out opportunity. This restriction prevents captains from resetting aggressive fields after being penalised with a no-ball.
History of the Free Hit
The free hit was introduced in T20 cricket to penalise front-foot no-balls more severely. A no-ball previously gave only 1 extra run and a repeat delivery — a relatively minor penalty. The free hit dramatically increased the cost of a no-ball by giving the batsman a guaranteed ball to attack without fear. The rule was later extended to ODIs.
Frequently asked questions
Does the free hit rule apply in Test cricket?
No. The free hit is exclusively a limited-overs rule (T20Is, T20 domestic competitions, and ODIs). In Test cricket, a no-ball still awards 1 extra run and removes the risk of certain dismissals on that delivery, but there is no subsequent free hit ball.
Can a batsman be caught out off a free hit?
No. A catch off a free hit delivery does not result in the batsman being dismissed. The batsman can hit the ball as hard as they like, including skying it to a fielder — they are safe from caught dismissals on free hit deliveries.
What happens if the batsman hits a boundary off a free hit?
The runs count normally — 4 or 6 are added to the batsman's score and the team total. There is no additional bonus for scoring a boundary off a free hit. The delivery itself is the bonus — the guaranteed safety from dismissal.
Can the bowler bowl a different delivery type on a free hit?
Yes. There are no restrictions on what type of delivery the bowler can bowl on a free hit. Bowlers sometimes bowl their best delivery (the yorker) on free hits, knowing the batsman may over-commit to an aggressive shot. The strategic battle on a free hit continues.